Radiation litigation: future issues

Scientists and regulators have successfully been able to control exposures to man-made ionizing radiation so that mankind has been able to enjoy its vast benefits without experiencing the significant harm which would occur from high doses. However, thousands of lawsuits have been filed claiming that low occupational levels of ionizing radiation have caused cancer and other illnesses. It will be decades before the legal system determines the rules of law which will apply to this new type of lawsuit and the effects which these cases will have upon those persons who work with sources of ionizing radiation. This article explores some of the issues which are expected to arise as these cases work their way through the courts.