Offsite Planning for Nuclear Installations and Incidents Involving Radioactivity: Iodine Prophylaxis – Is this Simply a Problem of Logistics?

Abstract

Currently, legislation relating to hazardous sites is becoming more rigorous, with the exception of nuclear installations and these are being addressed. A particular facet of accidents at nuclear installations involving radioactivity is potassium iodate prophylaxis as a counter measure. Effective distribution of stable iodine is important, with early issue to an affected populace critical. Present arrangements are unsatisfactory in that the Police Service is the principal agency for such distribution, with other agencies, for example the Health Service, acting in support. There is limited pre‐distribution to designated sites, but the practice varies throughout the country. Considerable thought has been given to the matter of an effective distribution process with the possibility shortly of guidance. It is unclear what arrangements will be in the future for this distribution and the matter will have to be treated with considerable care, bearing in mind the sensitivity of this subject as far as the public is concerned.

Citation

Bailey, E. (1994), "Offsite Planning for Nuclear Installations and Incidents Involving Radioactivity: Iodine Prophylaxis – Is this Simply a Problem of Logistics?", Disaster Prevention and Management, Vol. 3 No. 1, pp. 37-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/09653569410049658