Preface

Acknowledgements

Author biography

Abbreviations

Glossary of terms

1 Radiation physics and structure of matter

2 Sources of radioactive discharges

3 Aerosol physics and dispersion modelling

4 Exposure pathways

5 Principles of dose and biological effects of radiation

6 Impacts to the non-human environment from radioactive discharges

7 Environmental monitoring systems

8 Radiation detection and measurement

9 International legislation and standards

10 UK regulation and guidance

Across the world we are seeing a resurgence in new nuclear including both large traditional plants and Small / Advanced Nuclear Reactors (SMRs / AMRs) as a key part of tackling the climate crisis. The scale of the new build ambitions, coupled with increasing demand throughout the nuclear fuel cycle and high average age of the existing qualified and experienced workforce has created a concern of further skills gaps. One of the key 'skills' gaps relates to the field of radiological protection in particular modelling and measuring doses accrued by the public under both normal operational discharges and accident scenarios, along with the increasing importance on understanding the wider impacts to the environment. This book is an essential introduction to basic principles of radiation protection, aerosol physics and the impacts of radioactive discharges to both humans and the environment (flora and fauna). Also discussed are the specific difficulties with the monitoring and the health detriment associated with the more mobile and problematic radionuclides.

The book is aimed at those with an undergraduate degree in the sciences, whether they are entering a field of work related to radioactivity and health or in the environment or starting further advanced study. It will provide a useful introduction to the science behind radioactivity and radioactive discharges, along with an insight into risks of radioactive discharges.

Pete is an experienced Environmental and Radiation Protection Professional & Scientist within the Nuclear Power and Contaminated Land Sectors with over 15 years experience working across the Nuclear Fuel Cycle. Pete has a wealth of experience in the areas of Environment, Sustainability, Radiation Protection, Emergency Preparedness and Decommissioning in Design including holding several senior roles within the UK's New Nuclear Build Sector.

He is active with the International Scientific and Policy Arena of the Nuclear Industry including as a member of the International Commission on Radiation Protection Task Group 120 on Radiological Protection for Radiation Emergencies and Malicious Events, the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency Expert Group on International Recommendations (EGIR), World Nuclear Association Radiation Protection Working Group, and is Vice Chair of the International Radiation Protection Association Group on Public Understanding.

Pete was also former President of the Society for Radiological Protection, the UKs Chartered Professional Body for Radiation Safety and Radioactive Waste Management.

He holds an Honorary Professorship in Physics at the University of Liverpool specialising in Radiation Protection Science, Nuclear Energy Policy and Nuclear Reactor Technology, and Senior Fellowship at the University of Suffolk in Environment & Energy Research.