Transcript Slide 1
Radiation: How to address the confusion Jill Anderson Washington Internships for Students of Engineering & The American Nuclear Society Summary Background Conflicts and Concerns Policy Recommendations Background- what radiation is Radiation is actually a form of energy Measuring radiation dose: the Sievert Where does radiation come from? Background: where radiation comes from Sources of Radiation Exposure in the United States NCRP, 1987 Background: how we use radiation Uses of Radiation Medical- x-rays, CT scans, PET scans, brachiotherapy. Academic- carbon dating Industry- nonstick cookware, wrinkle resistant fabric Background: how we use radiation Uses Food Irradiation- kills bacteria and prolongs shelf life Security and safety- smoke detectors Energy- nuclear power generates over 20% of our electricity Background: government Regulations NRC- commercial EPA- soil, air water Current Policy S. 1042, medical safety H.R. 3228, NRC regulations Conflicts and Concerns: what they are Nuclear Power Plants Radiation emissions TMI and Chernobyl Terrorism Legitimate Concerns Conflicts and Concerns: why Public Perception Dangers of an ill-informed public Medical and food treatments Unfounded terror How to Address the Confusion Nuclear Power Stringent regulations Medical Food How to Address the Confusion Policy recommendations Accuracy and adequacy of public education about radiation benefits and health risks through industry and regulatory involvement. Radiation: How to Address the Confusion Concluding remarks Questions and Comments