Generic procedures for medical emergencies during a nuclear or radiological emergency

Overview

Effective medical response is a necessary component of the overall response to nuclear or radiological (radiation) emergencies. In general, the medical response may represent a difficult challenge for the authorities due to the complexity of the situation, often requiring specialized expertise, and special organizational arrangements and materials. To be effective, adequate planning and preparedness are needed.

In March 2002, the IAEA’s Board of Governors approved a Safety Requirements publication Preparedness and Response for a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency, jointly sponsored by seven international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), which establishes the requirements for an adequate level of preparedness and response for a nuclear or radiological emergency in any State. The Safety Requirements state, inter alia, that “…arrangements shall be made for medical personnel…to be made aware of the medical symptoms of radiation exposure and of the appropriate notification procedures and other immediate actions warranted if a nuclear or radiological emergency is suspected.” [para 4.77]. In 2004, the IAEA General Conference, in resolution GC(48)/RES/10, encouraged Member States to “implement the Safety Requirements for Preparedness and Response to a Nuclear or Radiological Emergency”.