Harmonization of radiation monitoring and environmental sampling data in the aftermath of a nuclear or radiological emergency

Rapid and efficient radiation monitoring and environmental sample collection and analysis are of primary importance in a nuclear/radiological emergency response. It is an essential step in an emergency response to characterize the intensity and geographical extent of any release of radioactive materials into the atmosphere in terms of the ground deposition and air concentrations of specific radioisotopes. In a large-scale incident/accident the radiation monitoring and environmental sampling analysis data should be compatible and comparable over large (>100 km) distances to be used for a proper assessment and prognosis of the event. This large area, beyond the control of the facility operator are defined under two off-site emergency zones (a) precautionary action zone (PAZ) and (b) urgent protective action planning zone (UPZ). This vast expanse of contaminated area requires that the data is free of built-in biases, statistical errors, free of environmental effects and overall harmonized. This article examines the different facets of data qualities that constitute meaningful emergency monitoring data at different stages of the event and draws attention to the geostatistical and other tools and techniques that facilitate harmonization.