How does SEPA identify the most exposed individual?
SEPA employs the Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) to carry out a habits survey for the following factors: • angling, commercial fishing (netting and creeling) and mollusc collection • production, use and destination of local produce • types, seasonality and consumption of local wild foods • land use and soil types • occupancy rates at locations around the site • local food consumption rates • extraordinary practices SEPA’s researchers use a range of techniques to investigate these factors: • interviewing local residents, farmers, gardeners etc • interviewing food retailers, fishery managers etc • observing habits at particular locations (eg beach use) • taking measurements of radioactivity SEPA staff also directly input into this process by using their knowledge about the locality and the sites they regulate.
