Decision aiding handbooks for managing contaminated food production systems, drinking water and inhabited areas in Europe

Three handbooks have been developed, in conjunction with a wide range of stakeholders to assist in the management of contaminated food production systems, inhabited areas and drinking water following a radiological incident. The handbooks are aimed at national and local authorities, central government departments and agencies, emergency services, radiation protection experts, agriculture and food production sectors, industry and others who may be affected. Sources of contamination considered in the handbooks include nuclear accidents and radiological dispersion devices; the most relevant radionuclides are included. The handbooks are divided into several sections which provide supporting scientific and technical information; an analysis of the factors influencing recovery; compendia of comprehensive, state-of-the-art datasheets for around 100 management options and guidance on planning in advance. A decision-aiding framework comprising colour coded selection tables, look-up tables and decision trees and worked examples are included. The handbooks can be used as preparatory tools, to engage stakeholders and to develop local and regional plans, but also as part of the decision-aiding process to develop a recovery strategy following an incident. To realise their full potential, the handbooks should be customised at national, regional and local levels.