Investigations on optimum surface densities of ambient dose measuring networks

The extension of IMIS (integrated measurement and information system) to monitor environmental radioactivity according to the Preventive Radiation Protection Act to the five new Federal States will involve also the extension of the stationary gamma-dose-rate measurement network run by the Federal Agency for Civil Protection to the new Federal States. Required network density will be determined primarily under aspects of radiological emergency protection while giving priority to aspects of early warning and representative detection of large-area gamma-dose-rate distribution. Hence, it should be possible to defect essential structures of any contamination of the environment by using this network of stationary dose-rate measurement probes. Current network density in the old Federal States is at about 1 probe per 150 sqkm. Studies are directed at clarifiying whether network density will meet the requirements in the light of new findings gained in operating experience of this measurement network and in the progress made in computer technology, and whether the measurement network could be thinned out for the benefit of the new Federal States. (orig./HP)