Controls on radioactivity in water supplies in England and Wales, with especial reference to radon

This note describes the legal and administrative controls on concentrations of radioactive materials, with especial reference to radon, in drinking water in England and Wales. These controls follow the EC Drinking Water Directive and Recommendations from the European Union. The Directive relates to radioactivity in drinking water generally, while the Recommendations are specific to radon. A distinction is made between private and public supplies, with more stringent controls on the latter. In general, problems in meeting the recommended levels are not expected in England and Wales.