In this report the Commission provides guidance for the protection of individuals living in long-term contaminated areas resulting from either a nuclear accident or a radiological event. The report considers the effects of a nuclear accident or radiological event on the affected population. This includes the pathways of human exposure, the types of exposed populations and the characteristics of exposures. Although the focus is on radiation protection considerations, the report also recognises the complexity of the post-accident situations, which cannot be managed without addressing all the affected domains of daily life i.e. environmental, health economic, social, psychological, cultural, ethical, political, etc. The report explains how the new Commission’s Recommendations apply to this type of existing exposure situation including consideration on the justification and the optimisation of protection strategies and the introduction and application of a reference level to drive the optimisation process. The report also considers practical aspects of the implementation of protection strategies, both by authorities and the affected population. It emphasises the effectiveness of involving directly the affected population and the local professionals in the management of the situation and the responsibility of authorities at both national and local levels to create the conditions and provide the means favouring the involvement and empowerment of the population. The role of radiation monitoring, health surveillance and the management of contaminated foodstuffs and other commodities is described in this context.
An appendix summaries past experience with long-term contaminated areas resulting from radiological events and nuclear accidents including radiological criteria followed in carrying out remediation measures.