Final activities in radiation protection research
The European Commission, DG XII, has published information on the final two areas to be addressed under the Radiation Protection Research Action, which forms an integral part of the specific RTD programme in the field of Nuclear Fission Safety of the EURATOM Framework Programme. The first area deals with radiological impacts on man and the environment with the overall objective of improving radiation protection. This aims to ensure better understanding of the mechanisms of radiation action, and to improve the quantification of the risks related to external and internal irradiation. It also aims to improve knowledge of the environmental transfer of radionuclides for the evaluation and management of radiation risks. The second activity area deals with accidents and involves an overall coordinated effort to concentrate on practical applications to define appropriate policies for the long-term management of the consequences of accidents. It also aims to improve the broad international management of any future accidents. The following areas are addressed in particular: - The consequences of Chernobyl and other radiation accidents; - Restoration and amelioration of health effects; - Restoration of severely contaminated territories; - Management and disposal of radioactive waste; - Emergency management approaches; - Cooperative networks and public information.