British Journal of Radiology (2004) 77, 365
© 2004 British Institute of Radiology
doi:
Generic models for use in assessing the impact of discharges of radioactive substances to the environment. IAEA Safety Reports Series No. 19. By IAEA, pp. 216, 2001 (IAEA, Vienna, Austria), 
50.87
R Corrigall
This report provides simple but realistic approaches to the assessment of the radiological impact of discharges to the environment. It identifies a method for initial assessment based on a "no dilution" of the radioactive discharge assumption followed by a "generic environmental model". The former is the worst-case scenario for a critical group and the later could be used as a screening method. Overall this is an iterative approach unless the doses calculated are below the set dose constraint for the no dilution method where no further assessment is required. This is suitable for continuous releases of radiation (equilibrium conditions) but not for an uncontrolled release or accident, e.g. accidental release or fire in a waste store. In general, the screening models are suitable for liquid and aerial discharges from hospitals but would be too simplistic for a detailed assessment.
There are a number of example calculations in the annex that help explain the procedures. The figures and tables are well set out, helpful and self-explanatory especially the flow charts. The later example data in the tables relate to American rivers and estuaries with only limited info for the UK. The report includes an extensive list of references divided between the different sections.
This is a useful report that supplements the NRPB Report M744 but does not replace that practical methodology. The general approach may allow assessment of more unusual food chain discharges or liquid mixing routes in rivers and sediment that are not covered in M744. Estimates of the volumes of lakes and river flow rates as well as estuaries tidal volumes are suggested which are often unknown for lesser rivers and estuaries. Aerial discharges assessment models over farms and residencies in the wake and cavity zones from the discharge stack are also very useful. There is a small section on the special considerations for assessing discharges of tritium and carbon-14. Again a simplistic specific activity approach has been taken although other methods are acknowledged and referenced.
