HPA-RPD-012 - Doses in Radiation Accidents Investigated by Chromosomal Aberration Analysis XXIV: Review of Cases Investigated, 2003-2005

Synopsis

During the three years 2003-2005, 23 persons suspected of being overexposed to ionising radiation were referred to the Health Protection Agency (formerly the National Radiological Protection Board) for investigation by cytogenetic analysis. Of these, 18 were related to industrial uses of radiation, 1 was from a major nuclear organization and 4 were associated with radiation used in institutions of research, education or health. No evidence of radiation exposure, as indicated by dicentric or translocation aberrations in chromosomes from blood lymphocytes, was found in 15 persons.

The most serious cases investigated involved a defective industrial x-radiography set and a poorly designed cell housing an electron beam accelerator. In all, 6 persons suffered localized erythema. Fortunately, the incident radiations were poorly penetrating so that their averaged whole body doses were low.

Last reviewed: 29 July 2009