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What is RADSAFE?

RADSAFE is a group of organisations that provide mutual assistance in the event of an accident involving the transport of radioactive materials by a member of RADSAFE. Membership includes the main nuclear establishments. RADSAFE does not cover the movement of nuclear weapons or transport movements made by non-members.

How can I contact RADSAFE?

In the event of an accident then RADSAFE can be contacted on 0800 834 153. If you have any questions about how RADSAFE operates then email us at enquiries@radsafe.org.uk

How can I obtain training on RADSAFE?

RADSAFE contract the HPA Radiation Protection Division to provide awareness training on Transport Radiations Emergencies for the emergency services. Details of these courses can be found in the training section of this web site.

What happens when I phone 0800 834 153 in the event of an radiation transport accident?

When a call is made to the RADSAFE number the phone is answered by the CNC Constabulary Communication Centre (CCC). They contact the nearest responding site to provide assistance to the emergency services. The CNC CCC also fax generic protection advice to the emergency services. The responding site will dispatch a small team of trained professionals to provide radiological assistance to the emergency services at the scene of the accident. The responders will be in contact with the consigning organisation to obtain specific information on the packages being transported. It is the consignor who is responsible for the clean up for any waste that might arise as a result of the accident.

What is the difference between RADSAFE and NAIR?

NAIR is a long stop to all other plans providing advice to the emergency services where, radiation is involved putting the public at risk and where no other radiation expert is available. The NAIR response is provided by a number of different organisations who volunteer their staffs time. RADSAFE is a formal contract between members of the working group. It provides for the provision of advice and personnel to assist the emergency services in the event of radiation transport accident involving a consignment from a RADSAFE member. Both RADSAFE and NAIR use the same notification number (connecting to the CNC Constabulary Communication Centre).

What does RADSAFE stand for?

RADSAFE does not stand for anything, its name implies radiation safety. It provides the Emergency Services with a name in a format they are familiar with along similar lines as Chemsafe. RADSAFE is the scheme supported by the nuclear industry which provides an emergency response to transport incidents across Great Britain.

Can RADSAFE advise me on the consequences of a 'dirty bomb' terrorist attack?

RADSAFE has been established to provide a response to a conventional accident situation when a vehicle (road or rail) may be involved in an accident. Consideration of the effects of 'dirty bombs' are beyond the remit of RADSAFE.

For more information you may wish to consult the UK Resilience website,
www.ukresilience.info