The work of ICRP Task Group 120 on radiation emergencies and malicious events

Abstract

The task group (TG) is developing ICRP recommendations for radiological protection for a wide range of radiation emergencies and malicious events, complementing those given in ICRP Publication 146 (2020) for large nuclear accidents. The scope includes accidents, involving criticalities and operating faults, fires and explosions, inadvertent damage to sealed sources, and sabotage of nuclear facilities or materials, theft of radiation sources, radiological dispersal devices, and the tactical use of nuclear weapons. For all scenarios, a graded approach to protection is being taken, with the aim of making the advice as generally applicable as possible, accepting that specific guidance may be required for some distinctive aspects. As a result of the conflict in Ukraine, the TG has already published guidance for public protection in case of a nuclear detonation. In terms of communication, the TG will advise on how best to use social media during radiation emergencies and malicious events.