Re: Numerous Transuranics found at Niagara - Help

["Otto G. Raabe" <ograabe@UCDAVIS.EDU>]

June 25, 2004



There are two issues (1) Public Relations and (2) Radiation Risks.



As for radiation risks, the first step is to compare the concentrations of 

these materials with the drinking water standards, even though this is not 

a public water supply. Ultimately, the dose to people by all pathways may 

need to be evaluated.



As for Public Relations, my only advice is NEVER, NEVER use the word "risk" 

in talking to the press or any member of the public or to any public 

official!  We cannot accurately estimate risk from low-level radiation, 

anyway. But the important point is that members of public do not understand 

what an HP means when he or she uses the word risk. You might as well have 

said "impending doom".



Also I prefer the terminology of "Radiation Safety" to the words "radiation 

protection". Everyone agrees that we need safety, but most people connect 

protection with a bullet-proof vest, etc.



Otto





**********************************************

Prof. Otto G. Raabe, Ph.D., CHP

Center for Health & the Environment

(Street Address: Bldg. 3792, Old Davis Road)

University of California, Davis, CA 95616

E-Mail: ograabe@ucdavis.edu

Phone: (530) 752-7754   FAX: (530) 758-6140

***********************************************  



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