Radiation biological dosimetry laboratory of the French military health service

The French Military Health Service created the Radiation Biological Dosimetry Laboratory, within the Army Biomedical Research Institute, so as to have its own resources in the event of a nuclear or radiological incident in an emergency context of this nature, whether it is accidental or malevolent, the laboratory is to perform dose estimations for the triage of ionizing radiation exposure victims and provide them with the appropriate medical care. This biological dosimetry expertise completes the physical dosimetry capabilities of the Army Radiological Protection Service. The Radiation Biological Dosimetry Laboratory uses the chromosomal techniques recommended by the International Atomic Energy Agency and is involved in inter-comparisons of both national and international dosimetry networks. Furthermore, being located inside a research institute makes it possible for the lab to take part in different research projects and to keep improving its expertise. (authors)