Speaker
Description
Introduction: Communication of radiation risk arising from the use of radiation and nuclear technologies for various purposes is an important part of protecting all persons who are, or may be, affected by radiation exposure during the application of these technologies under normal conditions and in emergency situations, including terrorist attacks. This danger may include not only the members of the public or patients undergoing radiation diagnostic examinations or radiotherapeutic treatment, but also some workers who are using radiation sources but are not familiar with all specific aspects of radiation protection.
Aim: The main aim of the paper is to discuss effective communication methods for presenting the health risks posed by radiation exposure to persons who may encounter radiation sources and radiation fields in various industrial, medical, and other applications, or who are exposed to excessive radiation during an emergency.
Results: The analysis of the present system of radiation risk communication shows a lack of full understanding and interpretation of radiation protection quantities, which are not always used in accordance with their definitions. This also applies to the understanding and use of monitoring results, which should be compared with the relevant standards and safety requirements.
Conclusion: The radiation risk communication is an important tool to optimise and minimise radiation exposure, which may often be underestimated or overestimated. It looks like the current system of too many radiation protection quantities should be reduced. Manufacturers of dosimeters and radiation protection monitors should pay more attention to presenting measurement results in a manner more consistent with the definitions of relevant quantities and introduced units.
Acknowledgements: The contribution was partially supported by the projects CHIMERA and UNICOPS.