Public Health Factors in Reactor Site Selection

Abstract

Factors of specific concern in the design and operating characteristics of nuclear plants to Federal, State, and local health agencies include physical and demographic site characteristics, potential air, water, land, and food contamination, land use, zoning, and exposure pathways. These factors must be considered to assure that the operation of one or more reactors at the selected site will not adversely affect the population and environment surrounding the plant. Research programs at operating power reactors are being coordinated to determine the methodology and analytical techniques required for an optimum surveillance program. The nuclear facility operator in cooperation with the State health agency should have a planned and rehearsed emergency plan which can be placed into effect to minimize adverse consequences in the event of an accident.