Random tidbit, I lived a few hundred meters away from Marie Curie's place in my younger days (long after her death, in the 80's).
A friend of mine in fact lived at her place. One day, the city decided to have radiation studies done and everyone in the area got visits from scientists - they took ground and water samples at multiple locations.
Results were communicated later - and radium, radon levels were more elevated especially at the old Marie Curie's house. However, nothing had been done following these findings.
Several areas in the city with radium and other radioactive materials have been found (older and newer dumps really!). Some areas are blocked off with radioactive signs, some houses have been destroyed for safety now.
Both our families moved. Note that the house also is at chemin du radium in France.
My friend's family and mine have left a few years later. All that to say, even recently there was still very little awareness and safety precautions being taken.
Results were communicated later - and radium, radon levels were more elevated especially at the old Marie Curie's house. However, nothing had been done following these findings.
Several areas in the city with radium and other radioactive materials have been found (older and newer dumps really!). Some areas are blocked off with radioactive signs, some houses have been destroyed for safety now.
Both our families moved. Note that the house also is at chemin du radium in France.
My friend's family and mine have left a few years later. All that to say, even recently there was still very little awareness and safety precautions being taken.
Some reference: http://www.franceinfo.fr/emission/le-plus-france-info/2013-2...