RADIATION HAZARDS CONTROL IN SURVIVAL OPERATIONS IN THE EVENT OF A NUCLEAR WAR
Concepts of radiation protection in survival operations are explained, and procedures devised to control radiation hazards for the protection of the population and maintenance of the operating efficiency of survival operations personnel are presented. The major hazard is external exposure to penetrating gamma radiation. Radiation exposure guides are cited indicating that persons may be exposed to not more than 100-r whole-body radiation in a 6-week period, or 200- r hole-body radiation in a period in excess of 6 weeks, wi out loss of operational efficiency. Where exposures greatly exceed 200 r for the emergency period, additional exposures at operational levels will probably be followed later by appreciable damage to health. The rules are based on the need for preserving operational efficiency of a limited number of persons. For the general public, 25 r should probably be the upward limit. Beta radiation from fallout deposited on skin or clothing may produce burns, but the injuries will not be incapacitating and can be controlled by simple procedures. The internal hazard is mainly from ingestion of food or water contaminated with radioactive material. For protection, only canned or packaged foods and water from covered or deep wells should be consumed during the early days after a nuclear attack. (P.C.H.)
- Research Organization:
- Defence Research Board Hdqs., Ottawa
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-012070
- OSTI ID:
- 4763894
- Journal Information:
- Canadian Medical Association Journal (Canada), Journal Name: Canadian Medical Association Journal (Canada) Vol. Vol: 87; ISSN CMAJA
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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