INTRODUCTION

SERMG is a Local Authority consortium in partnership with University of Southampton that measures and reports on environmental background radiation levels throughout Southern England.

SERMG was originally set up to answer public concerns over the Chernobyl fallout and to investigate the impact of nuclear facilities in North France and Southern England. Following the New Year terrorist attacks the potential for nuclear incidents has increased substantially.

SERMG has proved itself to be very responsive to Local Authority needs.

SERMG membership represents an effective insurance policy for any future incidents.

SERMG provides information to both RIMNET and the National Radiological Protection Board that would be essential in an incident situation to augment information from these bodies in assessing the impact of any incident.

SERMG has a well-developed quality assurance system.

The continuation of SERMG is a major benefit to the Southern England region. Without SERMG any future radioactive incidents would require the start-up of a new facility that would involve long development time and high costs.

SERMG is managed by a Steering Group of Local Authority representatives which includes Dr Ian Croudace from the University of Southampton.

Administration of the Steering Group is provided by Portsmouth City Council at no cost to the participant Local Authorities.

SERMG analytical costs are low compared with what would be charged in the commercial sector. SERMG produces much more than simply radiometric reports and technical advice.

SERMG membership results in reduced charging in the event of any local Radiometric Surveys that may have to be undertaken in your area. The SERMG Laboratory will carry out independent surveys for SERMG authorities and these are priced significantly below normal market rates.

SERMG has enhanced its service over the last 16 years and at no extra cost (the cost will effectively have remained fixed for a 15-year period).

SERMG is highly considered by government and nuclear agencies as well as Local Authorities.

SERMG has existed for 16 years (since 1988) and represents a uniquely successful multi-authority technical consortium.

SERMG is the largest and arguably the best Local Authority Consortium undertaking Radiation Monitoring in the UK.