Responding to Radiological Emergencies: Preparedness as Key

Radiological emergencies arise when there is a hazard due to radiation exposure from a source. Preparedness for such emergencies is vital to ensure effective response and mitigation of harm to the public and the environment. The International Atomic Energy Agency's Incident and Emergency Centre (IEC) is the global focal point for emergency preparedness and response for nuclear and radiological safety or security related emergencies. By providing a 24/7 operational system, the IEC shares with Member States and International Organizations clear, factually correct, objective and easily understandable information, performs assessment of this information, and provides international assistance for emergencies, upon request, with involvement of the IAEA Response and Assistance Network (RANET). To ensure effective preparedness, the IEC works with Member States in their national level exercises to practice the conduct and sharing of assessment and prognosis during an event, to learn lessons regarding the difficulties generating such harmonized messages and to improve this process. This preparation is vital for the IAEA to maintain a suitably robust capability and adaptability for the wide range of emergencies that can arise from radioactive sources. (author)