First national radiation measurement strategy is ready

A working group appointed by the Ministry of the Interior has drawn up the first national radiation measurement strategy. The aim of the strategy is to ensure that Finland is prepared for managing various radiation hazards and to improve the readiness for radiation measurement to safeguard the functioning of society and its vital functions.

Therefore, authorities and other actors must have clearly set responsibilities, sufficient resources and competence, high-quality tools for radiation measurement, a shared situation picture and consistent and coordinated communications for handling the situation. The strategy also examines how international cooperation and assistance could be utilised in measurement. 

Ten more targets that are detailed have been set for radiation measurement, for which development measures and responsible parties have been specified:

•    Finland has adequate radiation measurement capacity.
•    The actors have sufficient radiation measurement competence.
•    Radiation measurements can be used to control and reduce the radiation exposure of the general public and employees.
•    Food safety and the safety of water for domestic use have been ensured.
•    The safety of the living environment is ensured by means of radiation measurements.
•    Waste management is managed appropriately.
•    The cleanliness of vehicles and goods has been ensured.
•    The safety of products exported across borders has been ensured.
•    The radiation hazard can be managed by means of a shared situation picture.
•    The population is provided with adequate instructions on how to operate in radiation situations.

In addition to the needs of cooperation between authorities, the strategy takes into account, for example, Security Strategy for Society 2017, National Counter-Terrorism Strategy 2018-2021, CBRNE Strategy 2017, National Risk Assessment 2018 and the objectives set out in the EU’s CBRN Action Plan.

Inquiries:

Senior Specialist Mikko Jääskeläinen, tel. +358 295 488 425, [email protected] 

Deputy Director General for Rescue Services Janne Koivukoski, tel. +358 295 488 420, [email protected]