The WMO/IAEA rapid data exchange system in support of the early notification convention

Following the adoption, in September 1986, of the Convention on Early Notification of a Nuclear Accident, the IAEA and the WMO began work on the development of a methodology for the rapid dissemination of information and data following a nuclear accident. Expert Group meetings defined the data and information which needs to be disseminated, under the requirements of the Conventions. The Global Telecommunication System (GTS) of the WMO was identified as the suitable technical means of transmission since it combines immediate availability during times of emergency, rapidity of transmission and permanent connections to all Member States through their National Meteorological Centres. In order to utilize the GTS, special procedures and transmission formats have to be observed ad a specific code was jointly developed by WMO and IAEA to make the message Language-independent. Relevant instructions were issued in the WMO/IAEA Manual on the use of the WMO-GTS for the Early Notification Conventions. National arrangements for access by competent authorities to the information provided under the Early Notification Convention and for the provision of basic radiological data are of critical importance. Preparations are being made to provide specialized analyses and predictions on the atmospheric transport of radionuclides using the GTS and other means. The format and number of special output products is being specified in accordance with the requirements of the Member States. Requirements for meteorological and radiological data need to be kept under review in the light of model developments. The IAEA is presently engaged in the production of a software package for the coding/decoding of the data transmission