Brandsby Royal Observer Corps monitoring post

ROC and UKWMO monitoring post, standard design of 1956 by the Air Ministry Works Department, this example built 1964.

MATERIALS Reinforced concrete with compacted earth covering.

EXTERIOR Appears as a rectangular, flat topped grass covered mound with a raised entrance hatch at the south west end and a smaller, raised air vent at the north east end. Between these two openings, protruding through the mound, are two metal pipes that were the mountings for monitoring equipment: The one closest to the hatch being for the probe for the Fixed Survey Meter (for measuring radiation); the other for the baffle plates of the Bomb Power Indicator. The mounting for the Ground Zero Indicator (a pinhole camera device for detecting the direction and altitude of nuclear explosions) is adjacent to the entrance hatch.

INTERIOR The 4.6m deep entrance ladder-shaft has a drainage sump at its base and a hand operated pump. It gives access to a small closet for a chemical toilet and to the monitoring room which measures 4.6m by 2.3m. The floor of the monitoring room is covered with rubber (former National Coal Board conveyor belt material) and the walls and ceiling with polystyrene tiles. Original in situ fixtures include the shelving, desk and cupboard. The air intake vent retains its original mesh screen designed to filter out radioactive dust particles.