Optimization Approaches to Decision Making on Long-Term Cleanup and Site Restoration Following a Nuclear or Radiological Terrorism Incident

Abstract

Emergency planning activities have historically focused on the early phase of an event, especially issues associated with triaging in the initial response such as rescuing survivors. The most difficult task following an event may be the eventual recovery of society's most affected areas; the government must spend a large amount of money and effort to cope with the long-term site cleanup and restoration issues. In particular, the underlying principles and implementation guidelines for conducting the recovery effort have not been well developed. Following publication of the National Response Framework by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, some major responsibilities have been identified and defined. For example, DHS [Department of Homeland Security] recently published Protective Action Guides as planning guidance for health protection and recovery following incidents involving Radiological Dispersal Devices or Improvised Nuclear Devices. For the first time, the guidance addresses long-term recovery issues associated with radiological events, for which an 'optimization' process is prescribed to address the multifaceted, long-term recovery effort. This article analyzes this particular subject more deeply and evaluates the critical need for further development.