U.S. radiological emergency response planning and preparedness training programs (fixed nuclear facilities and transportation)

U.S. Radiological Emergency Response Planning and Preparedness Training Programs for State and local government emergency response personnel have been established to support fixed nuclear facilities and for transportation accidents involving radioactive materials. This paper outlines the perceived need for this training in two basic categories - planning and preparedness. An overview of the curriculums for these training programs is presented which includes training for emergency medical personnel, radiological emergency monitoring teams, and supervisory and management personnel at the State and local government level. Realistic practical exercises in responding to industrial radiography accidents, transportation accidents involving radioactive materials and power reactor accidents are part of the training program. Generic experience gained from the conduct of practical exercises is outlined, highlighting those areas of planning and preparedness that require the most improvement. Relative costs of these training programs are indicated. (author)