Risk assessment perspectives in radiation protection

The contribution of risk evaluation (as opposed to risk determination) to risk assessment is discussed. An attempt is made to give a mathematical structure to the justification process, the first part of the process involving the worth and costs of the practice, the second involving the implementation of radiation protection practices and a judgment of the social costs of the remaining detriment. Two risks that may be considered in the justification equation are discussed in outline:- 1) the relative potency of radiation vs. carcinogenic chemicals 2) rare events, i.e. nuclear and waste disposal accidents. (U.K.)