Generalised derived constraints for radioisotopes of polonium, lead, radium and uranium

Abstract

The 1990 recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) introduced the concept of the dose constraint and in the NRPB response to the recommendations the concept of a generalised derived constraint (GDC) was introduced. Generalised derived constraints apply to discharges of radionuclides to the environment and are based on the upper value of constraint on effective dose for members of the public of 0.3 mSv y"-"1. Generalised derived constraints have been calculated for discharges to atmosphere, rivers and sewers for the radiologically significant isotopes of polonium, lead, radium and uranium. The most recent age-dependent dosimetric models have been used and the methods are as used in calculating GDCs for radioisotopes of other elements, such as strontium, published previously. The GDCs presented here are intended as convenient reference levels against which proposed discharges can be compared. Generalised derived constraints are calculated using deliberately cautious assumptions and are in terms of annual discharges, assuming that the releases to the environment are continuous. If a proposed discharge is greater than about 30% of the GDC then the doses should be examined more closely, taking account of site-specific factors. (author)Includes bibliographical references. Title from coverAvailable from British Library Document Supply Centre- DSC:3608. 8553(vol 13 no 2) / BLDSC - British Library Document Supply CentreSIGLEGBUnited Kingdo