NSERC-UNENE IRC in Health Physics and Environmental Safety

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Nuclear power has been a reliable form of electricity generation in Canada for almost 50 years. Radiologicalprotection of nuclear energy workers, the public and non-human biota in the environment is an ethical, socialand regulatory essential for the continued production of electricity using nuclear power. Traditional approachesto protection from ionizing radiation were largely based on providing human protection. In recent years,awareness of the vulnerability of the environment has increased necessitating a review of current radiationprotection and security measures. The environment, humans and non-human biota can be harmed by ionizingradiation through contamination and/or exposure. Although developed nations have regulations designed toprevent undue stress on the environment from nuclear technology, possible exposure threats can occur throughaccidents, materials falling out of regulatory control, and intentional malicious acts. Health physics addressesthe safe use of radiation and protections of humans, non-human biota and the environment from the harmfuleffects of exposure. The overall objectives of the NSERC/UNENE Industrial Research Chair in Health Physicsand Environmental Safety are to train the next generation of nuclear scientists and engineers in health physicsthrough a unique and industry relevant educational experience, and to improve radiation protection sciencethrough innovative research. The aim of this research is to improve environmental protection from radioactivematerial by measuring, monitoring and modeling the impact of radiological materials on human, non-humanorganisms and the environment. The IRC research program will help improve Canadian and internationalsafety standards on the protection of the environment from the effects of ionizing radiation. Canada is a leaderin nuclear research and technology, exporting reactor systems and well as a high proportion of the world supplyof medical radioisotopes. With plans to expand its nuclear capacity over the next decade, the IRC researchprogram will ensure and improve the safety of the environment and nuclear industry in Canada and around theglobe.