Statistics on the use of radiation in Japan, 1981

Recently, the number of the business establishments utilizing the radiation of radioisotopes and radiation generators increased rapidly, and exceeded 4000 as of the end of March, 1981. As for the fields of application, the basic research in science, technology, agriculture, medicine and pharmaceutics was the main before, but recently, nondestructive inspection, the measurement in production, medical treatment and the analysis of harmful substances in environment and working places have been carried out using radiation. On the other hand, the safety control to prevent injuries and to secure the safety has become extremely important. Accordingly, it is very significant to clarify the latest aspect of radiation utilization in Japan. This booklet presents the statistical data on the establishments which have been permitted by the Director General of the Science and Technology Agency to use radioisotopes and/or radiation generators, and on those that have reported to and have been accepted by the Director General to use only sealed radioisotopes less than 100 mCi in all, as provided by the law. The hospitals and clinics which use only radiopharmaceuticals for their diagnostic and therapeutic purposes are not included. General aspects, the utilization of radiation in each category, the distribution of radioisotopes, the disposal of radioactive wastes, and radiological protection supervisors and trainees are reported. (Kako, I.)