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Chapter 6. Radiological and Nuclear Terrorism
Radiological Threats: Scope and Implications
Nuclear and radiological weapons pose a significant terrorist threat. In the past, terrorists
have attacked discrete locations with explosive materials that are not inherently toxic.
However, the tactics and technological sophistication of terrorists are continually
evolving. The September 2001 terrorist attacks demonstrated sophistication and planning
not previously encountered. Future attacks with radiological devices are a real possibility
that is outside the experience of most local emergency and health officials. Radiological
terrorism could include detonation of one or more nuclear weapons, deployment of a
radiation-producing device or other isotopic weapon (e.g., “dirty bomb”), or simply
placement of a radioactive source (e.g., nuclear waste material) in a public location. The
probability and nature of injuries depends on the type of disaster involved (see Figure
6.1).
Such materials are sought by a variety of terrorist or criminal organizations and have
been successfully seized by law enforcement personnel on many occasions. The
increasing sophistication and inventiveness exhibited by transnational crime syndicates,
drug cartels, anarchists, paramilitary warlords/insurgents and other groups challenge
traditional law enforcement approaches. The danger posed by these various illicit
organizations blurs the lines between international and domestic threats, as well as
between criminal and military threats.
Incident Management
The National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) suggests that
attacks with radioactive materials can result in an area of contamination that is much
larger than the immediate scene. Such “weaponized” hazardous materials are not readily
amenable to local cleanup and require a paradigm shift in incident management.
However, incident management will be difficult until the required and appropriate
monitoring equipment is available, along with well-trained technical personnel. Incident
response and the forensic investigation are also likely to be complicated by public fear
and hysteria, need for personal protective equipment, potential contamination of
evidence, and pressure for prompt cleanup and long-term site remediation. Consequently,
police, fire, and EMS departments are training and equipping themselves to respond
appropriately. State and Federal agencies are planning for how they will to coordinate
transport and management of contaminated evidence for rapid diagnostic and forensic
analysis, while still preserving safety and the evidentiary chain of custody.
There are several key public health and safety considerations in managing radiological
incidents. These include the potential for both immediate and long-term health effects,
depending on the specific radionuclide(s) and method of dispersal involved. Other
concerns include protection of first responders (including forensic investigators) as well
as the general public, casualty triage, decontamination, treatment, and management of
emotional distress and fear associated with possible exposure to radiation. Key decision
points include evacuation versus sheltering in place and potential restrictions on food and
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