[Details in relation to emergency planning in case of undesired dispersion of radioactivity]

Abstract

In the present context of terrorist threat and the multiple uses of radioactive sources for many applications, one cannot exclude the probability of a contamination with radioactive products in the public domain. The most probable scenario is the loss or theft of a source, or a source showing up in some unexpected location (orphan sources). Terrorist actions may lead to a similar problem (radiological dispersion devices, RDD). If the radiological situation is serious, the Belgian emergency plan will be declared, aiming at protecting the population as adequately as possible. However, the emergency plan has mainly been conceived for an accident in a nuclear facility; as exercises are organised frequently and as the technical possibilities can be studied in advance, the experts are better prepared for such accidents. But a radioactive contamination in some other location would lead to modifications to be made, which may result in less effective response. Indeed, the very first stage--an alert--will presumably be missing. Or the contamination may occur in a town not involved in radiological emergency exercises, leading to a local lack of means. The main concern is that this should not lead to a degradation of the response. It is essential that all decision makers at all levels know how to deal with the situation, or at least know whom to call for support (Mayors, emergency workers) A special focus on medical staff who could be involved with potentially strong (yet local) fields of radiation, injured people with contamination, but also (and presumably especially) with the psychological impact of large groups of population feeling concerned about the potential health or societal (and economic) consequences for themselves or their children. Whether the probability of such an event is large in Belgium or not is in that sense less relevant: the probability surely isn't zero, and as such an adapted preparation scheme is absolutely necessary.