A methodology for optimisation of countermeasures for animal products after a nuclear accident and its application

A methodology for the optimisation of the countermeasures associated with t he contamination of animal products was designed based on cost-benefit anal ysis. Results are discussed for the hypothetical deposition of radionuclide s on 15 August, when pastures are fully developed in Korean agricultural co nditions. A dynamic food chain model, DYNACON, was used to evaluate the eff ectiveness of the countermeasures for reducing the ingestion dose. The coun termeasures considered were: (1) a ban on food consumption; and (2) the sub stitution of clean fodder. These are effective in reducing the ingestion do se as well as simple and easy to carry out in the first year after depositi on. The net benefit of the countermeasures was quantitatively estimated in terms of avertable doses and monetary costs. The benefit depends on a varie ty of factors, such as radionuclide concentrations on the ground, starting time and duration of the countermeasures. It is obvious that a fast reactio n after deposition is important in maximising the cost effectiveness of the countermeasures. In most cases, the substitution of clean fodder is more c ost effective than a ban on food consumption. The methodology used in this study may serve as a basis for rapid decision-making on the introduction of countermeasures relating to the contamination of animal products after a n uclear accident. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.