WP4: Passive Dosimetry
The aim of this work package is to establish stable and reproducible procedures to measure ambient dose equivalent rates using passive dosimetry in order to harmonise passive dosimetry for environmental radiation monitoring across Europe. In the aftermath of a nuclear or radiological event, long-term monitoring of external gamma-doses may be performed by using passive detectors. Passive detectors are small, cheap and robust, and do not need an electrical power supply, so that they can be placed anywhere. However, the metrological correctness of the dose data obtained from these detectors is a presupposition for the application of such detectors in official measurements, which may lead to far-reaching decisions in radiation protection of the public.
To address these issues, investigations of the current status of passive area dosimetry systems used for environmental monitoring will be performed in Task 4.1. This will be done by compiling available information and by performing a comprehensive intercomparison. In Task 4.2, methodological studies and extended measurements will be carried out to explore the properties and detection limits of passive dosemeters used for environmental monitoring. In Task 4.3 it will be investigated as whether a different detector type, electret ion chambers, could replace common passive dosimetry systems in the future. In Task 4.4, a conclusion will be drawn concerning the applicability of passive detector systems in the framework of preparedness. In addition, harmonized measuring and calibration procedures will be recommended to achieve a European comparability of passive area measurements.