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Appendix 15
EMERGENCY RADIATION RESPONSE TEAMS
Emergency radiation response activities include radiation monitoring, radionuclide
identification, source recovery and assessment of radiological and medical consequences.
While radiation-monitoring activities include environmental and source monitoring, sampling
and sample handling, the radionuclide identification includes in-situ gamma spectrometry
and/or laboratory sample analyses. By source recovery, we mean the activities necessary to
render radioactive sources safe and stabilize the situation.
Radiological assessments include evaluating the monitoring data, and using models or other
techniques to evaluate the radiological consequences of the emergency, including individual
external and internal dose assessment. These activities can be conducted in the field or at
competent organizations. The activities also include provision of advice and recommendations
on minimizing the consequences of the emergency.
Medical assessments include the evaluation of the medical consequences, the provision of
advice or consultation to attending medical staff or assistance with medical care as necessary,
assistance in decontamination, decorporation, and the provision of advice on public health
issues. The activities also include radiopathology, bioassay and biodosimetry studies as
appropriate.
Table A15-I shows the minimum number of emergency radiation response teams
recommended for each threat category. Once established, these teams would be co-ordinated
from the radiological monitoring and assessment centre (RMAC) discussed in Appendix 14.
In addition, the IAEA Emergency Response Network (ERNET) [38] has established arrangements
to provide assistance teams qualified to perform the functions listed in Table A15-I. Ref. [38]
provides additional descriptions of these teams. While the IAEA ERNET programme was not
intended to replace need for preparations within a State, ERNET should be considered as a source
of additional teams if local resources are overwhelmed. ERNET teams could be requested using
the procedures in Ref. [23].
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