The 2023 Bo Lindell Laureate Lecture: Assessing and managing radiological risk

Area of Science:

• Radiological Protection
• Radiation Risk Assessment
• Radiation Risk Management

Background:

• The current radiological protection system relies on the linear non-threshold (LNT) model for low-dose radiation.
• ICRP Publication 26 established the effective dose and risk-based criteria for protection.
• ICRP Publication 60 shifted to a less quantitative approach based on detriment and risk acceptability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate recent scientific findings challenging current radiological risk assessment.
• To explore the implications of these findings for radiation protection strategies.
• To consider future directions for the system of radiological protection.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature and ICRP publications.
• Analysis of the evolution of radiological protection principles.
• Discussion of emerging scientific evidence and its impact.

Main Results:

• Recent scientific data raise questions about the validity of the LNT model at low doses.
• The quantitative basis for risk assessment and management has evolved and become less clear.
• There is a need to re-evaluate the assumptions underpinning the current system.

Conclusions:

• The system of radiological protection requires re-evaluation in light of new scientific evidence.
• Future revisions should address the uncertainties in low-dose risk assessment.
• A more robust and quantitative approach may be necessary for effective radiation protection.