Minimization of Risk

[Stanley Fitch <stanley_fitch@nmenv.state.nm.us>]

Health physics by nature is a science of risk minimization.  Countless
studies have analyzed radiation risk, resulting in the various current
hypotheses.  I have read or researched a significant number of these
studies.  My conclusion is that additional research is required to solve
the LNT/hormesis debate.

A friend in Colorado readily disagrees with me regarding implementation
of ALARA.  However we fundamentally agree on one point, ‘We must be
careful with the lives of those who work with radiation.’

I entered the industry some 15 years ago.  I too have been at the mercy
of NRC inspectors.  As mentioned by my Colorado friend, regulators have
been known to consider themselves correct "just because" they were the
regulators.  However today’s NRC more quickly checks for intent and
success of implementation (I’m unaware of the current DOE position).
Please remember, the regulated community can challenge the decisions of
a regulator and they can seek legal recourse against those decisions.

The proper degree of risk minimization will always be a subjective
opinion.  To set regulatory limits, agencies such as the NRC analyze
exposure data and the thoughts of expert organizations.  Behind it all
resides the thought, ‘We must be careful with the lives of those who
receive radiation exposure.’  This notion gave birth to ALARA.  How low
is reasonable enough?  The answer will always be in flux because risk
minimization will always be according to personal interpretation.

However, as health physicists we cannot afford to tell the public they
need "to go to the nearest nuclear facility and get their annual 500
mrem health maintenance dose."  This thought was conveyed yesterday on
Radsafe.  I view this thought to be reckless, and I'm sure the public
would as well.

Respectfully,
Stan Fitch

stanley_fitch@nmenv.state.nm.us


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