Nuclear and radiological emergency guidelines: preparedness, response and recovery

The purpose of this document is to assist National Societies to plan, prepare for, and respond to a range of nuclear and radiological emergencies, and as a result reduce the human suffering such incidents may produce. It provides basic background information on nuclear and radiological risks, some examples of scenarios that illustrate the range of possible emergency events, and potential services and assistance that may be needed following such events. The document addresses collaborative and cooperative actions that a National Society can take with its government and non-government partners, and provides guidance with respect to a radiological emergency operating environment.

The information supporting the development of these guidelines was collected from various sources within and outside of the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. In order to keep the information and procedures in these guidelines up to date, regular revisions were carried out as relevant data and procedures evolve and change, prompted by the findings of new research, analysis and relevant expert opinions.