Underground for nuclear protection

A number of countries, including the United States, have relied for some years on underground construction for protection against the effects of a nuclear attack. Depending upon the threat, such structures can offer protection against nuclear weapons - nearly complete protection against fallout radiation and a very high degree of protection against blast effects. Current planning in the United States envisions relocating most people away from areas that experience direct weapons effects. Studies show that the evacuated population could be protected against fallout by utilizing existing underground space, or by placing a layer of soil around and over space in existing buildings. Critical workers who remain behind in high-risk areas can be protected from blasts by expedient shelter and by shoring up existing basements. A longer-term program might incorporate protected space in the basements of new buildings. The dual role of such space also promise energy savings and reduced maintenance. 16 references, 4 figures