Glossary: R

Radioactive Substance Authorisations (RSA)

Radioactive Substances Authorisations are granted under the Radioactive Substances Act (RSA) 1993. This Act controls the storage, use and disposal of radioactive substances, through authorisation and registration systems and provides for access to information regarding sites holding such consents.

Radon

Radon is a colourless, odourless radioactive gas. It is formed by the radioactive decay of the small amounts of uranium that occur naturally in all rocks and soils.

Ramsar Sites

Wetland conservation sites, in particular waterfowl habitats, deemed to be of international importance. These sites were designated under the obligations set out at the Convention on Wetlands in Ramsar, Iran 1971.

Red List Discharge Consents

Potentially harmful discharges to controlled waters that require consent from the Environment Agency.

Risk of Flooding from Rivers and the Sea (RoFRaS)

Flood risk assessment which considers the probability that flood defences will overtop and breach from River and Seas.

Running sands

Some rocks can contain loosely-packed sandy layers that can become fluidised by water flowing through them. Such sands can ‘run’, removing support from overlying buildings and causing potential damage.

Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

The predominant organisation that offers advice on a diverse range of land, property, construction and related environmental issues.