Radioactive sources in combine harvesters

Category: Crops

Delivered by: Scottish Environment Protection Agency

SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) is responsible for regulating radioactive sources. Some combine harvesters contain radioactive sources which are used to enable crop yields to be determined. These so called "mobile" sources require to be registered with SEPA, who are responsible for regulating the keeping and using of radioactive materials. Farmers should be in possession of a relevant registration before accepting delivery of a combine harvester, whether new or used. Fire damage can result in radioactivity being spread into the environment. If this happens or if the source is otherwise lost, then SEPA should be informed without delay. At the end of use it is important that radioactive sources are properly disoposed of, usually by return to the manufacturer. This link takes you to relevant pages on SEPA's website. If you need further help, contact your local SEPA office via our central contact centre on 0800 80 70 60.