Speaker
Description
The global use of radioactive isotopes across diverse sectors—such as industry, research, energy production, medicine, and healthcare—has led to the widespread distribution of these materials in society. This proliferation has raised significant concerns among governments and organizations about the potential for accidental radioactive releases into the environment, which could lead to radiological emergencies. To address these risks, it is essential to establish robust safeguards and monitoring systems that can prevent such incidents and protect the public in case of a radiological event.
In response to these concerns, the Laboratory of Environmental Radioactivity at the University of Valencia (LARAM) has collaborated with the Valencian Agency for Safety and Emergency Response (AVSRE) to develop an environmental monitoring plan specifically focused on radiological emergencies. The potential sources of these emergencies have been carefully analyzed and categorized.
To support the objectives of this comprehensive monitoring plan, a portable measurement and analysis system was designed and constructed in the LARAM laboratory. The system includes two gamma detectors—NaI and HPGe—mounted on a mobile platform with an integrated stabilization system. Both detectors were calibrated and characterized for key performance factors, including efficiency, energy resolution, and dead time. This setup allows for rapid gamma radiation measurements in the field during a radiological emergency. In-situ measurements are less sensitive to variations in local soil conditions, enabling swift surveys of large areas to identify radioactive isotopes and hotspots. Meanwhile, laboratory measurements provide detailed analysis for detecting smaller radiation peaks.
In addition, it is crucial to perform background radiation measurements near radioactive facilities before any incident occurs. These pre-accident measurements help to characterize the environment and assess how the area might recover following a radiological event.
Using this system, a radiological survey was conducted across key radiological facilities in the Valencian Autonomous Community, yielding valuable reference data for assessing how these areas might recover in the event of an emergency. Simulations of various emergency scenarios were also carried out, predicting potential radioactive contamination under different meteorological conditions. These dosimetric simulations were performed at the Laboratory of Environmental Radioactivity at the University of Valencia using JRODOS software, the Java version of the RODOS (Real-time Online Decision Support) system for off-site emergency management in the aftermath of radiological and nuclear accidents.
Based on this research, a comprehensive radiological emergency protocol was developed, emphasizing the importance of rapid in-situ measurements using the emergency detection system created at LARAM. This protocol, along with the reference data and background radiation map of key radiological facilities in the Valencia region, was tested successfully during emergency drills organized by local authorities. Additionally, JRODOS simulations help assess potential risks to the population in the critical initial hours following a radiological incident.
In conclusion, the efforts of LARAM, in collaboration with AVSRE, have produced valuable tools and protocols that enhance preparedness for radiological emergencies in the region.
