engleski

CHALLENGES OF RADIOLOGICAL/NUCLEAR ON-SITE MEASUREMENTS

Mobile units represent a key element of emergency preparedness and response. On-site measurements are nowadays in their quality not much behind laboratory measurements, and also provide a quick acquisition of data that are accurate enough for making prompt and well substantiated decisions. Basic radiological on-site measurements include the determination of ambient dose rate equivalent H*(10)/t, the identification of radionuclides and the quantification of their activity. Of these, the quantification is particularly demanding and relies on high-resolution gamma- ray spectrometry which has recently advanced enough to be effective in on-site measurements. The goal of this work is to present typical problems in on-site measurements, these being: selection of an appropriate measurement device, accounting for background signal, the use of collimators, geometrical aspects related to a given measurement, calibration issues, etc. Consequently, it is desirable to open a discussion among experts in the field in order to set regulations and recommendations for this type of measurements. The selection of the type and number of appropriate measurement devices should be based on a proper insight into their characteristics and performances. Regular calibration is necessary, and it turns out that this sometimes should be carried out just before a measurement. Furthermore, joint exercises of several teams, which include measurements of the same objects and comparisons of the obtained results, increase the quality and preparedness for on-site measurements. This exchange of experiences is important part of the efforts to make measurement protocols uniform, leading to the easier interpretation of results and eventually to setting appropriate regulations. Protocols for on-site measurements are either missing or differ even between states that have the same radiological problems. These protocols should define criteria for the selection of equipment with regard to the type, efficiency, construction, and redundancy. Data transfer is another problem due to different software and data formats used by different equipment manufacturers, and also with respect to the ways of communication (the Internet, radio, fax, etc.). Moreover, maps of background values of H*(10)/t, and even of background activity concentrations of radionuclides of interest, would be helpful in the quantification of the results of the aforementioned measurements. We conclude that it would be desirable to establish an international workgroup of experts in the field, which could lead to guidelines for the development of protocols for on-site measurements.

challenges, radiological, nuclear, on-site measurements

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