Preventing a Dirty Bomb: Case Studies and Lessons Learned

Year
2019
Author(s)
Ioanna Iliopulos - Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI)
Christopher Boyd - Nuclear Threat Initiative
Abstract
Defining concrete actions to mitigate or eliminate radiological risks through advances in alternative technology and engaging stakeholders to urge implementation is at an important cross road. The paper “Moving Towards Zero: A Model for Building Voluntary Consensus to Eliminate Radiological Risks” is based on consultations with stakeholders in three communities with which NTI has partnered on Cesium-137 substitution - New York City, Atlanta, and California. The paper also highlights the individual case studies of successful actions on alternative technologies taken by NYC, University of California, and Emory University; models that can apply more broadly and can serve to accelerate efforts on a national level with other institutions and cities. The replacement of Cesium-137 blood and research irradiators should be a top priority given the risk reduction benefits. Terrorists cannot build a radiological weapon unless they acquire the necessary materials to do so. The report highlights the factors that encourage voluntary replacement of Cesium-137 devices, recognizing that there is not a regulatory mandate to do so. Observations and recommendations in this report are drawn from NTI’s advocacy role in the development of two successful models at the institutional level - a mid-sized research institution, Emory University, and a very large statewide university system, the University of California - and one regional example, New York City. The paper identifies key roles played by federal, state, and local regulators; operators; and decision makers in implementing Cesium-137 substitution strategies. The report highlights the incentives, challenges, and information gaps that shape decisions to move away from Cesium-137 irradiators. The model proposed draws on the commonalities of these case studies and provides a roadmap for successful consensus building. This model also can be replicated in a wide range of institutional settings and major metropolitan cities.