Reports of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health 2006:60 Henri Métivier, Sven Nielsen, Jouko Tuomisto, Wolfgang Weiss International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) MINISTRY OF SOCIAL AFFAIRS AND HEALTH Helsinki, Finland 2006 taittoversio3.indd 11taittoversio3.indd 11 16.10.2006 13:07:0916.10.2006 13:07:09 ISSN 1236-2115 ISBN 952-00-2187-6 (paperback) ISBN 952-00-2188-4 (PDF) University Printing House Helsinki 2006 taittoversio3.indd 12taittoversio3.indd 12 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 3International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) SUMMARY Henri Métivier, Sven Nielsen, Jouko Tuomisto, Wolfgang Weiss. International Evalua- tion of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK). Helsinki 2006, 56 pp. (Reports of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health ISSN 1236-2115; 2006:60) ISBN 952-00-2187-6 (paperback), ISBN 952-00-2188-4 (PDF) The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health invited a multi-professional panel of interna- tional and national experts to evaluate the research activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority – STUK. The evaluation was based on extensive written material, a site visit and interviews with a great number of scientists. This evaluation was the second international evaluation and the panel noted with satis- faction that STUK had carefully analysed and taken into account the recommendations of the international review panel in 2000. Many of the recommendations had success- fully been implemented in organising the work tasks and the professional profi le of STUK has also become more visible since 2000 both in the Nordic countries and in the international scene. The evaluation panel found that STUK has reinforced its position as a top research in- stitute in its fi eld largely due to the multidisciplinary know how and its integration in the main European or international projects. STUK's research is in most areas of high or even the highest quality. However, the evaluation panel made several recommenda- tions on management and scientifi c issues to reinforce the quality of research activities at the Institute. Key words: evaluation, management, organisation, radiation, Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, research, STUK taittoversio3.indd Osa2:3taittoversio3.indd Osa2:3 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 taittoversio3.indd Osa2:4taittoversio3.indd Osa2:4 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 5International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) TIIVISTELMÄ Henri Métivier, Sven Nielsen, Jouko Tuomisto, Wolfgang Weiss. International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK). Helsinki 2006, 56 s. (Sosiaali- ja terveysministeriön selvityksiä ISSN 1236-2115; 2006:60 ) ISBN 952-00-2187-6 (nid.), ISBN 952-00-2188-4 (PDF) Sosiaali- ja terveysministeriö kutsui poikkitieteellisen kansallisista ja kansainvälisistä asi- antuntijoista koostuvan asiantuntijaryhmän arvioimaan Säteilyturvakeskuksen (STUK) tut- kimustoimintaa. Arviointi perustui arvioijille etukäteen toimitettuun laajaan kirjalliseen materiaaliin ja STUKissa vierailuun, jonka yhteydessä haastateltiin STUKin tutkijoita ja muuta henkilökuntaa. Tämä arviointi oli järjestyksessään toinen STUKin tutkimustoiminnan kansainvälinen ar- viointi ja asiantuntijaryhmä totesi tyydytyksellä, että STUK oli huolellisesti analysoinut ja ottanut huomioon vuonna 2000 tehdyn arvioinnin yhteydessä annetut suositukset. Useat suosituksista oli pantu toimeen onnistuneesti ja STUKin asiantuntemuksen näkyvyys sekä Pohjoismaissa että kansainvälisellä tasolla oli lisääntynyt. Arviointiryhmä havaitsi, että STUK on vahvistanut asemaansa alansa korkeatasoisena tut- kimuslaitoksena. Tämä perustuu ensisijaisesti STUKin monitieteelliseen asiantuntemuk- seen ja keskeisiin eurooppalaisiin ja kansainvälisiin tutkimusprojekteihin osallistumiseen. STUKin tutkimus on laadultaan korkeaa tai korkeinta tasoa useimmilla osa-alueilla. Asian- tuntijaryhmä antoi kuitenkin lukuisia sekä hallinnolliseen että tieteelliseen toimintaan liit- tyviä suosituksia STUKin tutkimustoiminnan laadun vahvistamiseksi. Avainsanat: arviointi, johtaminen, organisaatio, STUK, säteily, Säteilyturvakeskus, tutki- mus taittoversio3.indd Osa3:5taittoversio3.indd Osa3:5 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 taittoversio3.indd Osa3:6taittoversio3.indd Osa3:6 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 7International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) SAMMANDRAG Henri Métivier, Sven Nielsen, Jouko Tuomisto, Wolfgang Weiss. International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK). Helsingfors 2006, 56 s. (Social- och hälsovårdsministeriets rapporter ISSN 1236-2115; 2006:60) ISBN 952-00-2187-6 (inh.), ISBN 952-00-2188-4 (PDF) Social- och hälsovårdsministeriet bjöd in ett antal experter från fl era olika professioner och länder till en panel med syfte att utvärdera STUK:s forskning (Strålsäkerhetscentralen). Ut- värderingen byggde på ett omfattande skriftligt material, ett besök på en anläggning och in- tervjuer med ett stort antal forskare. Det var den andra internationella utvärderingen och panelen noterade också med tillfreds- ställelse att STUK omsorgsfullt hade analyserat och beaktat den internationella panelens rekommendationer år 2000. Många av rekommendationerna hade genomförts i organisa- tionen när det gäller olika arbetsuppgifter och STUK:s professionella profi l har också blivit mer synlig de senaste åren, både i Norden och internationellt. Panelen fann att STUK har stärkt sin ställning som ett viktigt forskningsinstitut inom sitt område, till stor del tack vare den tvärvetenskapliga kompetensen och samarbetet med euro- peiska eller andra internationella projekt. STUK:s forskning håller hög eller högsta kvalitet inom de fl esta områden. Dock gjorde panelen fl era rekommendationer rörande ledningsfrå- gor och vetenskapliga frågor för att stärka institutets forskningskvalitet. Nyckelord: forskning, ledning, organisation, STUK, strålning, Strålsäkerhetscentralen, ut- värdering taittoversio3.indd Osa4:7taittoversio3.indd Osa4:7 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 taittoversio3.indd Osa4:8taittoversio3.indd Osa4:8 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 9International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) PREFACE The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health and Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) agreed that the scientifi c output of STUK will be evaluated by an international expert panel in 2005. For the fi rst time the research activities of STUK were evaluated in 2000. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health invited a multi-professional panel of international and national experts for the evaluation. The panel was chaired by emeritus Professor Henri Métivier (National Institute for Nuclear Sciences and Technology, France). Other members appointed to the panel were Professor Wolfgang Weiss (Federal Offi ce for Radiation Protection, Germany), Dr. Sven P. Nielsen (Risø National Laboratory, Denmark) and emeritus Professor Jouko Tuo- misto (National Public Health Institute, Finland). The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health was pleased to note that the panel considered that the quality of research within STUK was in most areas of high quality and that STUK has reinfor- ced its position as a top research institutie in its fi eld. The panel also found that the professio- nal profi le of STUK both in Nordic countries as well as on the international scene had become more visible. However, the panel issued some new recommendations in order to further improve the high per- formance of STUK as a research organisation. The panel recommended inter alia, that: STUK should continue to apply the policy of succession planning developed during the last 5 years, to transfer the knowledge of retiring experts to the new generation of radiation protection scientists, STUK should clarify the interaction, responsibilities and resources allocated to emergency preparedness among those units that contribute to this area, STUK should continue strategic planning of research, with the aim of reducing the great number of small projects, and STUK should reinforce its efforts made to publish scientifi c results in peer-re- viewed journals. I would like to thank warmly the evaluation panel for its efforts and constructive proposals to support the work of STUK. The actions to be taken on the basis of the evaluation will be a chal- lenge for the years to come. Kimmo Leppo Director General Health Department Ministry of Social Affairs and Health • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa5:9taittoversio3.indd Osa5:9 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 taittoversio3.indd Osa5:10taittoversio3.indd Osa5:10 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 11International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) TABLE OF CONTENTS Summary .............................................................................................................................3 Tiivistelmä ............................................................................................................................5 Sammandrag .......................................................................................................................7 Preface ................................................................................................................................9 Background of the evaluation ............................................................................................13 Members of the evaluation panel ......................................................................................14 Summary and principal recommendations ........................................................................18 Summary of present research activities ............................................................................23 Review of institutional objectives and responsibilities .......................................................25 Mission of STUK ....................................................................................................................................... 25 Doctoral students at STUK ....................................................................................................................... 25 Research in the fi eld of emergency preparedness in STUK ..................................................................... 26 General recommendations ....................................................................................................................... 27 Review of departments and laboratories ...........................................................................30 1. Natural Radiation .................................................................................................................................. 30 2. Radiation Hygiene ................................................................................................................................ 32 3. NPP Environments ............................................................................................................................... 34 4. Ecology and Foodchains ...................................................................................................................... 36 5. Airborne Radioactivity ........................................................................................................................... 37 6. Regional Laboratory in Northern Finland .............................................................................................. 38 7. Radiation Biology .................................................................................................................................. 40 8. Epidemiology and Biostatistics ............................................................................................................. 41 9. Radiation in Health Care – Radiation Metrology .................................................................................. 42 10. Non-Ionizing Radiation ....................................................................................................................... 44 Annex A: Key words and specifi c technologies .................................................................47 taittoversio3.indd Osa6:11taittoversio3.indd Osa6:11 16.10.2006 13:07:3816.10.2006 13:07:38 taittoversio3.indd Osa6:12taittoversio3.indd Osa6:12 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 13International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) BACKGROUND OF THE EVALUATION The objective of this peer review was to provide an evaluation for the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health (MSAH) of the research and health physics functions of STUK. To ac- complish this, the MSAH invited four international and national evaluators to carry out the evaluation. The evaluation of STUK was to address the following main issues: Appropriateness of STUK’s activities in relation to relevant issues in radia- tion protection sciences Social relevance and effectiveness of the activities Steering by information Prioritising STUK’s various activities Quality of STUK’s research activities The relation between costs and results MSAH and STUK supplied the evaluators with material concerning the history, status and strategy of STUK two months before the site visit to STUK. The evaluators made a site visit to STUK to interview the management and personnel of the different laboratories of STUK. After having studied the material and conducted the interviews during the site visit the eval- uators were expected to draw up a fi nal evaluation report. The work was carried out by the evaluation team on the basis of the evaluation material provided by STUK and the informa- tion gathered during the site visit to STUK. The experts had access to all information they needed, and received the answers to all the questions that they presented to the management, as well as to the personnel of the laborato- ries. They consider that the evaluation was done under the best possible conditions without any constraints and in perfect freedom. • • • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:13taittoversio3.indd Osa7:13 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 14 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) MEMBERS OF THE EVALUATION PANEL Professor, PhD, Henri Métivier, Chairman of the evaluation panel, is emeritus Professor of radiation protection at the National Institute for Nuclear Sciences and Technology (INSTN) in Saclay, Scientifi c advisor of the Director of the Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Institute (IRSN) was Director of research of the former IPSN (Institut de Protection et de Sûreté Nucléaire) and assistant of the director for protection of man and environment. After obtaining his fi rst degree (master of sciences) in the chemical sciences at Paris Uni- versity (La Sorbonne), he obtained a speciality in radiochemistry in Curie Institute, then a PhD at the University of Paris in radiochemistry. He joined the Atomic Energy Commis- sion, the military branch, in 1972. He became the deputy head of experimental toxicology and in 1982, the head of toxicology and cancerology unit of the IPSN. In 1989, he worked for the director of nuclear safety research of the IPSN, then became in 1995 the director of research and took the responsibilities of IPSN-University relationships and the responsibil- ity of fellows doing the PhD. In 1999 he was nominated Professor at INSTN. His research work has mainly concerned with actinides, speciation of plutonium at low lev- els for human extrapolation, biochemistry linked to the effects of plutonium in lungs, and connective tissue pathology of the lung whether linked to radiation or not, biokinetics (after inhalation and ingestion) and carcinogenesis of actinides compounds. He has also been re- sponsible for the preparation of French protection rule of workers experimenting with HIV viruses in animals. He has published more than 200 publications, over 50 as a fi rst author in international journals, and 40 as a fi rst author in French journals. He has acted as a consultant of ICRP in different task groups. He was a member of ICRP Committee 2 (1989-2005) and chairman of human ICRP Alimentary Tract Task Group (ICRP Publication 99). He was a member of a scientifi c Advisory Group to the CEC Radia- tion program. To day, he is the evaluator of several CEC's programs. He is a consultant of the OECD/NEA CRPPH (Committee for Radiological Protection and Public Health). He acts as a chairman of the scientifi c committee of the Department of radiation measurements and units of the CEA, and a member of French Metrology Committee (LNME). He is a con- sultant for the French Academy of Sciences. He has participated in organising several international symposia and he has published a col- lection of about 20 scientifi c books devoted to nuclear protection and safety. He is a chair- man of the editorial board of RADIOPROTECTION, the journal of the French Radiation Protection society (SFRP). He obtained Academic palms in 1992. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:14taittoversio3.indd Osa7:14 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 15International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) PhD Sven P. Nielsen is the Deputy Head of the Radiation Research Department at Risø Na- tional Laboratory and Head of the Research Programme on Radioecology and Tracer Stud- ies. After studying electronics and physics he obtained his Masters Degree in Electrical and Nu- clear Engineering from the Technical University of Denmark. He obtained a PhD on envi- ronmental radioactivity focusing on fi eld gamma spectrometry. The PhD work was carried out at Risø National Laboratory where he joined the Section on Applied Health Physics re- sponsible for radiation safety at Risø’s nuclear facilities. In 1986, he joined the Ecology Programme of Risø’s Department of Environmental Science and Technology and in 1999 he was promoted to his present position in the Radiation Research Department His research work has concentrated on environmental radioactivity covering natural and man-made radioactivity. He has been involved in a range of international projects on radio- logical and radioecological research involving the Nordic countries, the European Commis- sion and the International Atomic Energy Agency. He has been working particularly with radioecological models describing the transfer of radionuclides in the terrestrial and marine environments. The models have been used to describe and study transfer processes in the environment and to make radiological assessments of actual and hypothetical releases of radioactivity to the environment. His publications include 57 articles in international peer- reviewed journals, 60 published conference papers and about 170 extended abstracts and reports. He is the manager of the project on Monitoring of Radioactive Substances in the Baltic Sea (MORS) under the Helsinki Commission dealing with natural and man-made radionuclides in the Baltic Sea and their radiological impact on man. Members of the MORS Project are laboratories from the countries bordering the Baltic Sea working with radioactivity in the marine environment. He is a member of the Danish steering group for the Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Pro- gramme and Danish member of the Groups of Experts on the Articles 35, 36 and 37 of the Euratom Treaty. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:15taittoversio3.indd Osa7:15 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 16 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) Professor emeritus Jouko Tuomisto graduated as a physician from the University of Hel- sinki in 1965, received his doctoral degree in Medical Sciences from the Department of Pharmacology of the same University in 1968 and PhD in Pharmacology and Toxicology from the University of Kansas, Kansas City in 1972. He was appointed Associate profes- sor of Pharmacology in the University of Helsinki 1977, and Professor of Toxicology and Pharmacokinetics in the University of Kuopio 1978. In 1983, he started organising the De- partment of Environmental Hygiene and Toxicology (presently Department of Environmen- tal Health) to the National Public Health Institute of Finland. This department grew over the years to an internationally oriented environmental health research institute of European scale with a staff of about 140 people. After his retirement in 2004, he continued in many expert tasks serving the European Union, the World Health Organisation and the Govern- ment of Finland. Professor Tuomisto has published 16 books, over 200 scientifi c articles in peer-reviewed international journals and a large number of articles in professional and lay magazines and newspapers. The main topics of his scientifi c work have been neuropharmacology, neuroen- docrinology, neurotoxicology of metals, and most recently persistent organic compounds, mostly dioxins. He has also been a member of a number of committees and advisory bodies in the areas of pharmacology, toxicology and environmental health. One of these was the Energy Committee in 1987-1989 delineating various energy production prospects of Fin- land including nuclear energy. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:16taittoversio3.indd Osa7:16 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 17International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) Director and Professor Dr. Wolfgang Weiss is the Head of Department of Radiation Pro- tection and Health of the Federal Offi ce for Radiation Protection (BfS) in Munich, Germa- ny. After obtaining his degree in physics (diploma and PhD) at the University of Heidel- berg in 1975, he spent one year as a Post-doc at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, Mass., USA, to study the global distribution of the weapons’ fallout (tritium and 14C) in the world ’s oceans. In the following years he participated in related global marine research projects. In 1980 he became the Director of the Institute for Atmospheric Radioactivity in Freiburg, Germany. His early work was on environmental surveillance with a strong focus on noble gas measurements (85Kr, 133Xe). The fi rst automatic remote control dose rate monitoring sys- tem for NPPs in Germany was designed by the institute. It became a prototype for the site- specifi c surveillance systems of German NPPs, which is now mandatory. After the Chernobyl accident, he designed – on behalf of the German government – a com- prehensive national system for the surveillance of the radiological situation of the environ- ment, early warning and decision support (IMIS). This work included the development of specifi c decision support systems like RODOS, which were developed at the EU level. In this context, he engaged in various aspects of emergency preparedness. Within several gov- ernmental cooperation projects between Germany and Russia he established on-line moni- toring systems in the vicinity of Russian NPPs. He was an adviser to the German government during the negotiations of the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) in the mid nineties. His institute hosted a global inter-cali- bration exercise for all Xenon-measuring systems, which were developed globally to dem- onstrate that this technology is suitable for CTBT purposes. The Institute hosts an aerosol and a noble gas station of the global monitoring system of the CTBT organisation. Since 2000 he is responsible for all health-related scientifi c issues of radiation protection at the federal level in Germany. This includes questions of risk quantifi cation both for ionis- ing and non-ionising radiation, risk communication, radiation protection at the workplace and the full spectrum of medical applications of ionising radiation. His department operates national dose registries for workers and for highly radioactive sources as well as a national UV measurement network. It acts as a regulator for all applications of radionuclides and/or ionising radiation in clinical research. Radon epidemiology (dwellings and miner studies) is another important area of work. Currently a major national research programme on the ef- fects of EMF is operated by the department. Dr. Weiss is the head of the German delegation of UNSCEAR, member of Committee 4 of ICRP, chairman of ICRP TGs on “Optimisation” and “Emergencies”, member of OECD/ NEA/CRPPH as well as of the CRPPH Bureau. He is being involved in the defi nition and implementation of several EURATOM research programmes of the CEC. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:17taittoversio3.indd Osa7:17 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 18 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) SUMMARY AND PRINCIPAL RECOMMENDATIONS Research is essential to underpin the effective functioning of STUK and the quality of its advice both to the ministry and the public. However, it is always diffi cult to reconcile the activities of research and the activities of expertise in the organisations whose principal ob- jectives are laid out by the government and the population. The panel estimates that STUK, being an effective organisation, reconciles these two objectives and succeeds to maintain a research organisation of high quality. The most visible parameter of this success is the at- tractiveness that STUK shows amongst the young doctoral students and the universities. The process of adopting and prioritising new projects and research ideas has become more transparent since the previous evaluation. The panel appreciates that the recommendations formulated in 2000 evaluation were all assessed and, for the majority, also taken into ac- count. The panel considers that the quality of research in STUK is high and at an interna- tional level. The professional profi le of STUK has become more visible both in Nordic countries and in the international scene. The nomination of Helsinki for the organisation of the 2010 European IRPA congress is the most visible recognition of the efforts. However, the 2005 panel wishes to put forth new recommendations to further improve the high performance of STUK. The major recommendations of the panel are: To continue to apply the policy of succession planning developed in the last 5 years, to transfer the knowledge of retiring experts to the new generation of radiation protection scientists. To continue strategic planning of research, with the aim of reducing the great number of small projects. To clarify the interaction, responsibilities and resources allocated to emer- gency preparedness among those units that contribute to this area. Further work remains to be done in adopting and prioritising new projects and research ideas, especially with work crossing the administrative borders. To reinforce efforts made to publish scientifi c results in peer-reviewed journals. STUK should take an initiative that all data of general interest and relevance will be published by the laboratories themselves or in collaboration with other STUK units and universities. To enhance the cooperation of research for non-ionising radiation and radia- • • • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:18taittoversio3.indd Osa7:18 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 19International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) tion practices regulation areas and research in the Research and Environmen- tal Surveillance Department. To reconsider the unrealistic wish of STUK to increase the share of outside fi nancing of certain targeted laboratories. These laboratories have already a suffi cient workload which corresponds to a well-targeted objective. It is dif- fi cult for these units to diversify into other activities. For emergency preparedness, responsibilities should be more clearly speci- fi ed and transparent decision mechanisms should be communicated to all concerned. To consolidate the multidisciplinary project "Uranium" and seek for new Eu- ropean complementary partners; the project is one of the rare projects in the world having an objective to study the chronic internal exposure. To establish, further develop and implement mechanisms and procedures to address and prioritise horizontal issues, which might affect several laborato- ries of STUK. Specifi c recommendations for laboratories Natural Radiation The Natural Radiation Laboratory should maintain or increase co-operation with universities in order to establish projects employing MSc and PhD train- ees and ensure recruitment of young talented scientists. More emphasis should be given to publish results in international peer-re- viewed journals in order to maintain the high level of research work on natu- ral radioactivity and demonstrate this to the scientifi c community. Recommendations on natural radioactivity should be compared with those of other European countries having an extensive experience in this fi eld of activity. To continue the active role of the group in the health studies, especially in epidemiological analyses. The group has to be associated with European group studying health effects of natural radionuclides in drinking water. Radiation Hygiene The panel mainly endorses the 2000's recommendations, and enhances it; The laboratory's core activities, which are of great importance to STUK, Finland’s nuclear industry and the radiation protection fi eld, should be main- tained at a high level. STUK should continue to monitor the 137Cs body content of the population • • • • • • • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:19taittoversio3.indd Osa7:19 16.10.2006 13:07:3916.10.2006 13:07:39 20 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) over the next years. The situation in Finland is unique and the information to be gained is potentially important for decision-makers in the event of any future nuclear accident. The laboratory should continue to actively participate in research on chronic internal exposure. Efforts to provide information to the public should to be kept at a high level to maintain the credibility of STUK as an authority and impartial body giving advice on radiation protection issues in Finland. The laboratory has to engage, as other STUK laboratories, the actual efforts for transferring the know-how between generations of scientists. NPP Environments STUK has to consider the question of critical mass of the laboratory. The laboratory has to maintain close collaboration with other STUK labora- tories. Ecology and food chains To reduce the number of projects to allow more time for the remaining projects. To continue to participate in major European projects. To increase the rate of publications in international peer-reviewed journals. To prepare a succession plan because 3-4 members of senior staff will retire within the next 5-7 years. Airborne Radioactivity Research activities should be maintained at the present level or increased in order to maintain the high standards. From a strategic point of view, high priority should be given to establish a Xenon-analysis capability. More emphasis should be given to publish results in international peer-re- viewed journals. Regional Laboratory in Northern Finland The fi nal objectives of the laboratory must be redefi ned as an international observatory of the health of a particular ecosystem of the planet. • • • • • • • • • • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:20taittoversio3.indd Osa7:20 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 21International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) The pressure of STUK to fi nd fi nancing from external sources is not realistic and should be reconsidered. The laboratory has already a suffi cient workload which corresponds to a well-targeted objective. It is diffi cult for the unit to diversify into other activities. Radiation Biology To keep the level of quality of research. To keep in mind the particular needs for research in Finland. To maintain the link with the Epidemiology laboratory, especially if molecu- lar epidemiology activities in the Radiation Biology laboratory keeps increas- ing. To establish a position on the ethical applications of certain research projects, screening, for example. Epidemiology and Biostatistics To maintain its enthusiasm. To avoid the dispersion of its activities too much in spite of the many re- quests. To keep the contact with the laboratories having expertise in evaluation of exposures and doses. Radiation in health care - Radiation Metrology To maintain the expertise in the areas already covered, broaden it to cover new upcoming areas, and increase manpower. The laboratory wishes to supplement its expertise in the codes of Monte Carlo. It is recommended to the laboratory, taking into account the number of people, to visit the German and French laboratories having already experi- ence in this fi eld, and associating these codes with voxel phantoms technol- ogy. To present the excellent results and experience and provide feedback to the international scientifi c community. Non-Ionising Radiation It is highly important to continue the work of the laboratory because it is ei- ther crucial from a health protection point of view, or from public perception. • • • • • • • • • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:21taittoversio3.indd Osa7:21 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 22 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) Interaction with biological research should be continued and further devel- oped. The number of activities supported by the laboratory should be kept under permanent review. More publications in international journals are desirable. • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:22taittoversio3.indd Osa7:22 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 23International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) SUMMARY OF PRESENT RESEARCH ACTIVITIES STUK’s research activities relate to radiation in man and the environment, health effects of radiation and the prevention of hazards caused by radiation. At present, research activities of STUK cover radiation biology and epidemiology, natural radiation, transfer of radioac- tive substances in the environment, effects on biota, radiation hygiene, medical use of radia- tion, dosimetry, and non-ionising radiation. Maintaining and developing of high level com- petence in fi eld and laboratory analyses in order to cope with abnormal radiation situations is an important part of research activities. Studies on biological and health effects of radiation cover both ionising and non-ionising radiation. Topics in epidemiological studies have included lung cancer induction by radon, carcinogenicity of natural radionuclides in drilled wells, kidney effects of uranium in drink- ing water, health consequences of Chernobyl accident, cancer among nuclear workers, can- cer risk attributable to cosmic radiation, and cellular phone use and brain cancer. Biological studies of ionising radiation have included radiation-induced genomic instability, radiation- induced bystander effect, hereditary radiation effects, individual radiation sensitivity and biodosimetry. Topics in biological studies of non-ionising radiation included genome-wide and proteome-wide analyses of cell response to mobile phone radiation and to UVA, cellu- lar stress response induced by RF-EMF, effect of RF-EMF on blood-brain barrier function, and effect of UVA on melanoma metastasis in vivo. Exposure of the Finnish population to natural radionuclides via indoor air and drinking wa- ter is amongst the highest in the world. The research on radon has involved nation-wide sur- veys on radon exposure in homes and at workplaces, epidemiological studies, modelling of radon entry, indoor radon mitigation and prevention techniques as well as water treatment methods for removing radionuclides from household water. For preventive actions, infor- mation is acquired to promote radon-safe construction and mitigation of high ra-don con- centration buildings. Radon and uranium concentrations of water from wells drilled in bed- rock are signifi cantly high in Finland and the drilled wells are used more and more as source of household water. Understanding the reasons leading to great regional differences in ac- tivity concentrations in Finland is among the current topics for research. Research activities involving non-ionising radiation include the development of measure- ment techniques required to determine radiation exposure, as well as exposure measure- ments, particularly in relation to UV radiation, microwave radiation and various electric and magnetic fi elds. In the last few years studies have been focused on exposure effects of mo- bile phones, development of SAR measurement methods, development of irradiation sys- tems for animal and cell culture studies and the use of solaria and resulting UV doses as well as clarifi cation of biological effects of UVA and mobile phone frequency radiation. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:23taittoversio3.indd Osa7:23 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 24 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) Radioecological studies aim at the modelling of the transfer of radioactive substances in the environment and estimation of the subsequent radiation doses to man. Special attention is given to the semi-natural environments and forest industry and possibilities to mitigate contamination levels in foodstuffs and forest products. After the Chernobyl accident, the ra- dionuclide concentrations in agricultural products decreased rapidly as compared to those in natural and semi-natural products (mushrooms, berries and game). The average radiation dose via foodstuffs from artifi cial radionuclides is now below one percent of the average annual dose of Finns. Research on radiation hygiene deals with kinetics of radionuclides in human body and the con-sequent internal exposure to radiation. Concentrations of radionuclides in human body are monitored with whole body counters and using other bioassay methods. Recent stud- ies have included assessment of chronic incorporation of uranium and natural radionuclides from drinking water, as well as monitoring of body content of cesium-137 in groups of peo- ple living in regions of higher Chernobyl fallout and consuming local natural foodstuffs. Development of tools for emergency preparedness includes surveillance methods needed in monitoring of radioactive substances as well as comprehensive decision support systems for nuclear emergency preparedness. Modern communication technology is exploited to de- velop real-time radiation monitoring systems and mobile radiation detection and fi eld meas- urement techniques. Analytical algorithms have been developed for gamma spectrometry and direct alpha spectrometry. Current research on medical use of radiation mainly focus on X-ray diagnostics where the priority areas include the optimisation of X-ray examination techniques, examinations with high patient doses (CT, fl uoroscopic procedures), most radiosensitive patients (children), screening of non-symptomatic patients (mammography), performance of new imaging technologies (digital imaging) and assessment of patient dose. For radiotherapy and radia- tion metrology, techniques for applied clinical dosimetry and calibration of dose-meters have been developed. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:24taittoversio3.indd Osa7:24 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 25International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) REVIEW OF INSTITUTIONAL OBJECTIVES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Mission of STUK The Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) is a regulatory authority, research in- stitution and expert organisation whose mission is to protect people, society, environment, and future generations from harmful effects of radiation. Its history is described in the Re- search activities report edited by S. Salomaa and T.K. Ikäheimonen in July 2005 (STUK- A210). The ultimate objective is to keep the radiation exposure of Finnish citizens ‘as low as reasonably achievable ’(the ALARA principle) and to prevent radiation and nuclear ac- cidents with a very high certainty (Safety As High As Reasonably Achievable or the SA- HARA principle). The confi dence of the general public and stakeholders’ views on the sig- nifi cance of STUK’s operations in enhancing safety are also key indicators of the quality of STUK's work. One key objective of STUK research is to extend professional knowledge that supports reg- ulatory operations and the maintenance of emergency preparedness. The quality of the re- search done is under continuous self-assessment, and internal procedures have been set up to promote continuous improvement. Peer-review of scientifi c articles in international jour- nals is used as an external quality measure and independent reviews on the effectiveness and quality of research are carried out every fi ve years. This is now the second time when all STUK ’s research activities have been subject to external review by international radia- tion protection experts and scientists. Doctoral students at STUK A panel member took an initiative for the panel to interview doctoral students and recently graduated doctors at STUK. The meeting with the six young people was organised and the following discussions in the meeting were very open. The review panel interviewed the group on their attitudes how they feel STUK as a work- ing and research training environment. The doctoral grades are given by universities that set the conditions of tutoring. Usually a doctoral student has at least two supervisors, and most university departments require at least one of them being their own professor or docent. Im- portant university departments are e.g. the Department of Chemistry, Laboratory of Radio- chemistry, University of Helsinki, and Helsinki University of Technology, just to mention a few. Students preparing their thesis at STUK considered STUK very attractive, and evalu- taittoversio3.indd Osa7:25taittoversio3.indd Osa7:25 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 26 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) ated their tutoring very high. STUK also gives its young employees a possibility for a leave of absence for postdoctoral training at other institutes, usually abroad. This is highly impor- tant even if it may be a fi nancial burden. The students showed good communication skills and professional mastering of their fi elds and indicated that STUK also expects some par- ticipation in professional activities outside of their own research topic. STUK is an attractive workplace for students in MSc and PhD studies due to good work- ing conditions, e.g. good supervision, laboratory facilities and equipment. During evalua- tion of the laboratories, the panel observed that STUK is also attractive for foreign young top-level scientists. Another positive feature of STUK’s policy towards permanent scientifi c staff is that it en- courages acquiring international experience and strengthening international contacts by vis- iting foreign organisations. Some STUK groups consisting of senior staff only (e.g. expert group on radiation protec- tion) could benefi t from including younger staff members in order to stimulate discussions and introduction of new ideas. STUK is to be congratulated on its improved record of training doctoral students as com- pared with the previous evaluation in 2000. These activities are very valuable for STUK's professional recruitment of competent people in future years when several experts in key positions will retire. It is also a valuable asset in maintaining and obtaining international collaboration with research institutes in other countries. STUK's policy facilitates recruiting competent personnel in general, as it improves the scientifi c image of the institute. The panel recommends that the increased profi le of training activities of doctoral students and scientifi c education of its own personnel are continued. Research in the fi eld of emergency preparedness in STUK In case of nuclear or a radiological accident STUK provides a great number of expert serv- ices and decision support at national level. E,mergency preparedness and radiological situa- tion assessment of STUK relies heavily on the competence of some of its laboratories (Ra- diation Hygiene, Ecology and Foodchains, Airborne Radioactivity). These units are also responsible for the environmental surveillance in Finland, which is one of STUK’s regula- tory activities. This matrix organisation is well suited to maintain a high level of prepared- ness. In case of an emergency, additional information (e.g. source term information) is pro- vided by the unit for Nuclear Reactor Regulation and by external organisations. The unit for Emergency Preparedness is the focal point of all these activities; it is responsible for the emergency operation and management of STUK as well as for the planning and participa- tion in national and international exercises. The interaction between research and regulatory functions is developed through international standards and regulatory guides. One of the key objectives of STUK research is to extend professional knowledge that sup- ports the maintenance of the high standard of emergency preparedness. One of the main ar- taittoversio3.indd Osa7:26taittoversio3.indd Osa7:26 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 27International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) eas of research during the period 2005 to 2006 is the “preparedness for nuclear and radia- tion accidents, the production of data on methods how to protect and restrict the harms of radioactive fallout and to develop methods that allow to follow and predict the radiation sit- uation.” Research activities are embedded in major European research projects with special emphasis on the unique situation in the Nordic countries. Three of the seven laboratories in the Department of Research and Environmental Surveillance have key obligations in emer- gency preparedness. The Research Director of STUK acts both as chair of the department and takes responsibility for the overall conduct of research at STUK, as well as emergency preparedness. The panel has been informed that there are specifi c regulations and procedures in place which describe the ways in which the Research Director and the head of the unit for Emer- gency Preparedness work together and how priorities are defi ned to meet the needs of the unit for Emergency Preparedness. The interviews with the laboratories participating in the matrix organisation have docu- mented that – despite existing procedures – there seems to be a lack of transparency and clarity with respect to responsibilities for decision making and for prioritising the overall research needs in the area of emergency preparedness. The action programme for research for years 2004-2006 identifi es a great number of individual research activities which – from the point of view of the various laboratories – are areas of high priority. However, the panel felt that mechanisms for the prioritisation of research and development activities address- ing horizontal issues which might affect several laboratories or the function of STUK as a whole are not as well developed as is the case at the level of the laboratories. For example, a consistent system for managing, processing, and assessment of all data available at the vari- ous laboratories of STUK and from external organisations was identifi ed to be missing. It is recommended that Responsibilities should be specifi ed more clearly and transparent decision mechanisms should be communicated to all concerned. Mechanisms and procedures should be developed and implemented to ad- dress and prioritise horizontal issues which might affect several laboratories of STUK. General Recommendations The panel notes with satisfaction that STUK has carefully analysed and taken into account the recommendations of the international review team in 2000. Many of the recommenda- tions have been implemented successfully in organising the work tasks and the professional profi le of STUK has become more visible both in the Nordic countries and in the interna- tional scene. • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:27taittoversio3.indd Osa7:27 16.10.2006 13:07:4016.10.2006 13:07:40 28 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) Most units were enthusiastic about research even if there were big differences in the relative proportions of research and routine duties. For natural reasons the scientifi c productivity was highest in units concentrating mostly in research, i.e. in radiation biology and epidemi- ology. These laboratories also had the largest number of enthusiastic doctoral students. But also in many other units a desire for improved publication record could be sensed, although in the limits of time available. In some cases a defensive mood was encountered in the sense of not seeing that the work is not fi nished until it is also published. In other words, publish- ing the results was not seen as an integral part of the everyday work. In some cases also de- fensive attitudes were observed as to ownership of the raw data. According to the Finnish legislation the ownership in governmental research institutes is very clear. The data are not owned by the unit or by the researchers but by the institutes and thus by the society that has paid for it. Hence the institute can, in principle, see that the work is fi nished including publi- cation, if not by the original data collector, then by somebody else in the house or in collabo- ration with other research institutes or universities. This should be made clear in all units. The recommendation from the evaluation in 2000 of sharing analytical services and equip- ment across laboratories has been followed. The panel notes with satisfaction that coopera- tion on analytical competence, equipment and capacity across units is very good. Permanent working groups on sampling and pre-treatment, radiochemical analyses and gamma spec- trometry have been established with participation of all laboratories. Nevertheless, some of the recommendations of the international review team in 2000 re- main valid and further permanent efforts by STUK are required in the following areas: To seek opportunities for involving senior scientifi c staff of STUK in the work of UNSCEAR. With regard to the international recognition of the qual- ity of STUK in the radiation protection fi eld, the panel recommends to the Finnish authorities to engage an action in the UNO to re-discuss the member state participation of Finland and probably other countries to this scientifi c committee. To continue strategic planning of work with the aim to consolidate the resource allocation by substantially reducing the great number of small projects. To continue applying the policy to succession planning, developed in the last 5 years, to transfer the knowledge from retiring experts to the new gen- eration of radiation protection specialists. To regularly review the balance between service-based activities and research activities. The previous panel gave recommendations on creating larger units that would develop critical mass and give more fl exibility. These concerns are still valid, and the panel recommends that in a few years when several persons retire, these recommendations are given due consideration before fi lling the key positions. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:28taittoversio3.indd Osa7:28 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 29International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) The panel recommends that STUK should pay attention to the goal that all data of general interest and relevance will be published by the units them- selves or in collaboration with other STUK units or universities. This princi- ple may be more important and effective than setting a minimum number of publications per academic person per year. The timing of internal programme planning by STUK and the external evaluation by the international review teams should be synchronised; so far STUK has developed action pro- grammes for research (2004-2006) which are based on STUK’s strategic plan (to be updated 2006). It is not obvious how the 2005 recommendations of the international panel can best be used by STUK. STUK as a governmental organisation in Finland has several functions, e.g. as a research centre, a regulator and an expert organisation. One way for measuring success of research activities is the number of original publications in peer-reviewed journals per academic per- son year. In this respect some progress has been made during the last 5 years. STUK has developed general and clear rules for encouraging research publications. A goal for STUK's research is to produce one original publication per each year per scientist. But, on the other hand, STUK’s research supports the work and credibility of STUK as a regu- lator and an expert organisation. To enhance its policy of publication, STUK must defi ne laboratory by laboratory the type of journal that the scientists will have to sign. In setting publication rules it should be appreciated that not all important papers will be accepted by the so called prestigious journals with high impact factors. Different laboratories may be in different situation, when e.g. important practical information on drinking water may need quite a different forum as compared with fundamental research on bystander effect. There are no general rules available how this impact and the success of STUK’s research can be measured, and therefore STUK should develop appropriate concepts. However, the proposed rules are of good quality and rather unique in many European laboratories. We al- so have to appreciate that STUK is strongly encouraging its staff to publish in books. With a general tendency of decreasing budgets the role of external research funding be- comes more important. STUK is encouraged to consider possibilities of introducing an in- ternal bonus system for those research teams that raise external funds for targeted research, which is benefi cial for the mission of STUK. 6. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:29taittoversio3.indd Osa7:29 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 30 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) REVIEW OF DEPARTMENTS AND LABORATORIES 1. Natural Radiation The Natural Radiation Laboratory is responsible for: Research on occurrence and risks of radon in indoor air, natural radioactivity in household water and terrestrial and cosmic radiation. Studies on mitigation of elevated indoor radon concentrations and on treat- ment methods of natural radioactivity in household water. Measurement services for indoor radon concentration and radioactivity in household water. The former evaluation panel recommended that projects in the areas of indoor radon expo- sure and radioactivity in drinking water be retained at a high level; the laboratory has clearly promoted the prevention of harmful effects of indoor radon and household water radioactiv- ity by means of research, co-operation with municipal authorities and communication. The laboratory has produced high quality material on the prevention of indoor radon and han- dling of household water in co-operation with other parties The database established by the Natural Radiation Laboratory on radon levels in a large number of dwellings, their locations and building techniques is an important tool for con- tinued work on reducing the indoor radon levels in Finland. The database provides back- ground for research on improved estimates of the health risk from indoor radon and docu- mentation of effects of mitigation measures, and the panel recommends that the work in this area be continued at the existing level. The information from the database can be used to illustrate effects of different ways of re- ducing the radon exposure of the Finnish population, e.g. overall reduction of radon levels in all dwellings or, reduction of those levels only that exceed intervention levels. The panel recommends that remediation strategies are evaluated and advice given to the building in- dustry and authorities. Concentrations of radioactivity in water from drilled wells are anomalously high in Finland, and the Natural Radiation Laboratory has investigated techniques for the removal of natu- ral radionuclides from drinking water. The panel recommends that this work be continued at the present high level to reduce problems in cases where concentrations exceed the limits given in the Drinking Water Directive. • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:30taittoversio3.indd Osa7:30 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 31International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) The group participates in signifi cant health effect studies of chronic ingestion of uranium at relatively low concentrations. It would be useful to develop collaboration with outside laboratories performing the same type of experiments with animals and occupational health physicists with experience on acute exposure. The occurrence of relatively high levels of indoor radon and of radioactivity in drilled wells is likely to persist in Finland for many years, thus requiring STUK to remain active in these areas. The panel recommends that the Natural Radiation Laboratory maintains or increases cooperation with universities in order to establish projects employing MSc and PhD train- ees and to ensure recruitment of young talented scientists. In order to maintain the high level of research on natural radioactivity and to demonstrate this to the scientifi c community the panel recommends that more emphasis to be given to publish results in international peer-reviewed journals in addition to an already impressive list of reports for the national stakeholders involved in indoor radon. Conclusions Natural Radiation Laboratory’s work is of signifi cant importance to STUK and the Finn- ish authorities. The laboratory provides authorities and the Finnish public with detailed and reliable information on natural radioactivity. The activities dealing with indoor radon and radioactivity in natural water are excellent. The laboratory has a signifi cant impact on au- thorities and building companies Recommendations The panel recommends that the Natural Radiation Laboratory maintains or increases its cooperation with universities in order to establish projects em- ploying MSc and PhD trainees and to ensure recruitment of young talented scientists. In order to maintain the high level of research on natural radioactivity and to demonstrate this to the scientifi c community the panel recommends that more emphasis to be given to publish results in international peer-reviewed jour- nals. It would be good to compare Finnish recommendations with those given in other European countries with a large experience in this fi eld of activity. The panel recommends the laboratory to continue the active role in the health studies, especially in epidemiological analyses. The group should establish cooperation with other European groups studying health effects of natural radionuclides in drinking water. • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:31taittoversio3.indd Osa7:31 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 32 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) 2. Radiation Hygiene The Radiation Hygiene Laboratory is responsible for surveillance and research on artifi cial and natural radionuclides in man. The radiation exposure for various population groups of people and radiation workers is determined using direct and bioassay methods. The results are used to estimate and control internal radiation doses. Another important function of the laboratory is to contribute to emergency preparedness of STUK with special emphasis on internal contamination. In the area of environmental surveillance the laboratory is responsible for the gamma spec- trometers operated in about 40 local laboratories around the country, for the calibration and maintenance of these instruments as well as for registering the results from each laboratory. This responsibility for the functioning of measurement equipment in the 40 local laborato- ries is complemented by responsibilities of the unit of Ecology and Food chains. A considerable part of the laboratory's activities consists of various expert services for pri- vate companies, such as estimation of the organ and whole body doses of nuclear power plant workers and other radiation workers. The laboratory actively participated in a European community project of optimisation of monitoring for internal exposure (OMINEX), which demonstrated good integration of the laboratory in the European scientifi c community. The laboratory is active in an important STUK project which is dealing with the chronic ex- posure to uranium and natural radionuclides in drinking water. As the Natural Radioactivity Laboratory, the Radiation Hygiene Laboratory has been associated with European groups studying health effects of chronic exposure. The former panel stated that the laboratory’s core activities – which are of great importance for STUK, Finland’s nuclear industry and the radiation protection system – should be main- tained at least at the present level (2000). This panel notes to day that the core know-how has been reinforced in this area. New personnel has been trained systematically in key fi elds of know-how; internal dosimetry (direct and indirect measurements), detector technique, ra- dioactive waste and decontamination processes. In transferring knowledge to the next gen- eration, the essential tools are the quality manual, data bases and publications. The former panel also recommended to continue the long-term monitoring of critical fi ssion products in the unique Finnish environment and to achieve a realistic and comprehensive assessment in event of any future accident involving a release of radionuclides into the en- vironment, and to complement this task by studying sources of activity in the national diet. It was also recommended that emphasis be placed on publishing unique data sets held by the laboratory. The laboratory is measurement data will be systematically transferred in to databases. Lastly, efforts to provide information to the public should be kept at a high level to maintain the credibility of STUK as an authority and impartial body on radiation protection issues in Finland. Customer-oriented communication has been continued since 2000. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:32taittoversio3.indd Osa7:32 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 33International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) The 2005 panel notes that STUK – following the recommendation of 2000 – has taken the initiative to maintain the laboratory's core activities that are of great importance to STUK. Given the fact that the head of unit will retire in the near future, further initiatives are need- ed to secure the present situation. In the area of emergency preparedness, the unit provides valuable input to STUK’s high quality emergency preparedness activities as a part of an internal network. The questions of the panel on the various responsibilities of different units of STUK contributing to emergen- cy preparedness (Radiation Hygiene, Ecology and Foodchains, Airborne Radioactivity) and for decisions on research priorities were not fully answered in the interviews. Therefore the panel recommends that clear and transparent responsibilities should be specifi ed. The overall responsibility for the work of the 40 local laboratories and for the assessment of a radiological situation based on the results from these stations remains unclear and it is recommended that clear responsibilities should be established. According to the research planned for the next 5 years as described in the publication “Re- search activities of STUK 2000 - 2004” (STUK-A210), the methodological work on the de- velopment of methods for direct and indirect measurements and the Nordic projects on the assessment of internal dose seem to be of high priority. Despite declining levels, the moni- toring of the 137Cs body content of reference groups should be continued. The list of publications demonstrates the valuable work of the unit in international net- works; the panel notes with satisfaction the active participation of the head of laboratory to the preparation of a report of the ICRU international reference organisation for measure- ments. These efforts should be encouraged and continued. Conclusion The group has a signifi cant obligation for STUK and the Finnish radiological protection es- tablishment. The group is also fully integrated in the European scientifi c community and Nordic society. Long-term monitoring is needed for a realistic assessment of exposure and complete management of radiological accidents. This group needs to continue to participate in international conferences and symposiums by presenting the results of its highly original research results. Recommendations The panel mainly endorsed 2000's recommendations, and enhances them: The core activities of the laboratory – which are of great importance for STUK, Finland’s nuclear industry and the radiation protection establishment – should be maintained at a high level. STUK should continue to monitor the 137Cs body content of reference groups over the next years. The situation in Finland is unique and the information • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:33taittoversio3.indd Osa7:33 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 34 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) to be gained is potentially important for decision-makers in the event of any future nuclear accident. The laboratory should continue to actively participate in research on chronic internal exposure. Efforts to provide information to the public should be kept at a high level to maintain the credibility of STUK as an authority and impartial body on radia- tion protection issues in Finland. The laboratory for Radiation Hygiene should increase efforts to transfer the know-how between generations of scientists. 3. NPP Environments The NPP Environmental Laboratory has the main task of monitoring radioactive substanc- es in the environs of Finnish nuclear power plants. The laboratory carries out the work as contracted services to the power plants; this work takes about 50% of the working capac- ity and reduces the capacity of the laboratory to do scientifi c work. However, the extensive environmental data produced during routine monitoring are valuable for more comprehen- sive studies. In addition the NPP laboratory is responsible for a permanent monitoring pro- gramme of the Baltic Sea under the auspices of the Baltic Marine Environment Protection Commission (HELCOM). The former panel recommended achieving critical mass and exploiting potential synergism in analytical activities, creating closer collaboration, concentrating radiological analyses in one laboratory, or restructuring by integration with the laboratory Ecology and Foodchains. Co-operation between the laboratories has been developed, and the NPP laboratory staff clearly favours the present organisation. The NPP Environmental Laboratory has estab- lished close collaboration with other STUK laboratories on gamma spectrometric analyses and use of other analytical equipment. Furthermore, joint projects have been implement- ed with several other laboratories (Natural Radioactivity, Airborne Radioactivity, Northern Finland). The recommendations of the former panel that STUK should aim to publish data on the Bal- tic Sea biota obtained in the EU sponsored project, and the expertise developed in relation to the movement of radionuclides in sediments be exploited further to achieve a higher pro- fi le were successfully followed. All research projects concerning the Baltic Sea have now been reported. The NPP Environmental Laboratory has made a signifi cant contribution to develop and es- tablish the department’s quality system and accreditation of sampling methods and analyti- cal work. The panel considers this a very important accomplishment that will ensure that the analytical quality will remain high at STUK’s laboratories and recommends that this work be maintained at the present high level. • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:34taittoversio3.indd Osa7:34 16.10.2006 13:07:4116.10.2006 13:07:41 35International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) The panel appreciates the signifi cant results from the NPP Environmental Laboratory on ra- dioactivity in the Baltic Sea and the important contribution in the future report on "Radio- activity in the Baltic Sea in 1999-2004 " in the framework of the HELCOM MORS project. It is important that the Helsinki Commission (HELCOM) combines these efforts with the OSPAR Commission for a better knowledge of all European seas. A comprehensive synthesis on plutonium behaviour in seafood and sediments would be ap- preciated because certain assumptions described in the research activity report (difference between 238Pu and 239Pu) need to be re-investigated. The panel considers it important that the NPP Environmental Laboratory maintains close collaboration and carries out research projects with the other laboratories working on envi- ronmental radioactivity. The interaction, responsibilities and allocation of resources concerning emergency prepar- edness should be clarifi ed for all STUK units that contribute to this area covering both rou- tine work as well as emergency situations. The research plans for the next fi ve years as described in the publication “Research activi- ties of STUK 2000-2004” (STUK-A210) comprise activities that are important for main- taining and developing STUK’s expertise on environmental radioactivity. Conclusions The work of the NPP Environmental Laboratory is signifi cant to STUK and the Finnish nu- clear power plants. The laboratory provides the Finnish public with reliable information on environmental radioactivity near the Finnish nuclear power plants. The laboratory has a fi ne record in their routine activities, in international collaboration and in scientifi c publishing. For the routine work a small coherent laboratory is undoubtedly effi cient, but the panel has some doubts on the possibilities of scientifi c progress and effi cient training of new experts in a small unit. Recommendations STUK should consider the question of critical mass of the laboratory. The NPP Environmental Laboratory should continue the close collaboration with other STUK laboratories and maintain the international collaboration with other Nordic and European laboratories. The laboratory should continue the work on quality system ensuring that the analytical quality at STUK’s laboratories remains at the present high level. • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:35taittoversio3.indd Osa7:35 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 36 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) 4. Ecology and Foodchains The Ecology and Foodchains Laboratory is responsible for studies on distribution and trans- fer of radionuclides in terrestrial and aquatic environments including agricultural and forest ecosystems. A range of associated activities is included covering countermeasures, rehabili- tation strategies for contaminated areas in the context of emergency management and devel- opment of decision support tools. The laboratory also carries out monitoring programmes on artifi cial radionuclides in depo- sition, foodstuffs and surface and drinking water. The monitoring results are reported annu- ally and delivered to the European Commission on a regular basis. The panel notes a substantial effort by the laboratory in the areas of nuclear emergency management and decision support systems as well as radioecology and dose assessments. The activities in these areas are well integrated in international projects and hence demon- strate that STUK is well established in the European research community in these fi elds. The panel observed a successful international effort to assess doses and risks to critical groups of fauna and fl ora with the aim of protecting the Finnish environment in DSSNET, FARMING, FASSETT, and other European research projects. Similarly as the Radiation Hygiene Laboratory, the Ecology and Foodchains Laboratory has various responsibilities, e.g. for research, emergency preparedness and for the 40 local lab- oratories. The basic questions and issues needing clarifi cation are identical with those dis- cussed in the chapter of Radiation Hygiene Laboratory. The former panel also recommended that radionuclide analysis services should be shared with other STUK laboratories. This panel notes that this has been almost fully implemented during the last fi ve years. Since 3-4 members of the unit are retiring in the next 5-7 years, the question of how to trans- fer knowledge is obvious and STUK has to take a decision on the future role of this unit. The international review team considers a part of the work proposed for the next 5 years important to STUK. This includes the work on emergency preparedness, specifi c radioeco- logical problems addressed in the Nordic programme, and specifi c issues related to radia- tion protection and the exposure of biota, which specifi cally addresses problems of nuclear waste storage. Based on a purely research-based effi ciency scale the publication record is below the stand- ards defi ned by STUK. However, preparing and developing material like the handbook on radiation protection in urban environment compensates for this defi cit. Nevertheless, the unit should undertake further efforts to improve their publication record. Conclusions The work of the laboratory is important to STUK, and also in the framework of emergency preparedness, to maintain and further develop radioecological expertise. The integration in European projects is very good. However, the number of projects is too large. taittoversio3.indd Osa7:36taittoversio3.indd Osa7:36 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 37International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) Recommendations To reduce number of projects to allow more time for the remaining projects. But to continue to participate in main European projects. To increase rate of publications in international peer-reviewed journals. To prepare a succession plan because 3-4 senior staff will retire within the next 5-7 years. 5. Airborne Radioactivity The Airborne Radioactivity Laboratory has various responsibilities, e.g. for research, emer- gency preparedness, and as a certifi ed laboratory in the CTBTO network. It gives a very qualifi ed and signifi cant contribution to emergency preparedness of STUK. The laboratory is responsible for e.g. monitoring external dose rate and airborne radioactive substances. The nation-wide dose-rate monitoring network consists of 290 stations. A real-time radia- tion monitoring and information system, known as USVA, has been developed and is con- tinuously maintained. The most technical developments of the unit represent state of the art. The various activi- ties of the unit are performed with great effi ciency and effi cacy. The unit raises substantial funds from external sources. However, only a small fraction of the available resources is al- located to research. During the last 5 years the work has specifi cally been targeted to meet STUK's needs both at national and at international level. The previous recommendation to better “share radi- onuclide services with other laboratories inside STUK” has not been considered in depth by STUK management. Based on the interviews in the respective units, the panel is of the opinion that the previous recommendation has not been fully implemented. The interaction, responsibilities and allocation of resources concerning emergency preparedness should be clarifi ed between the units involved. As also in the other units, there seems to be a lack of transparency and clarity with respect to responsibilities for decision making and for priori- tising the overall research needs in the area of emergency preparedness. The Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) project should be further developed only if it is re- quested as a support service and funded by third parties, not as a STUK-driven project. The technical systems used for monitoring of airborne radioactivity should be maintained at the present high level, since they are of importance for emergency preparedness. A con- sistent system for managing, processing, and assessing of the various data provided by dif- ferent laboratories of STUK and external organisations is missing. This is a major obstacle for the performance of STUK in an emergency situation. STUK should seriously consider developing and implementing such a concept and implement such a system in order to im- prove its performance in this fi eld. • • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:37taittoversio3.indd Osa7:37 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 38 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) As a certifi ed laboratory within the CTBTO system, the unit is planning to establish a Xe- non-analysis capability. From a strategic point of view, high priority should be given to im- plement these plans. With one exception (assay techniques for analysing radioactive particles present in envi- ronmental samples), the priority areas for research and technical development for the next 5 years as described in the publication “Research activities of STUK 2000 - 2004” (STUK- A210) are of high priority. Research work represents a relatively minor part of the activities of the laboratory which al- locates more emphasis and resources on operational duties on emergency preparedness and environmental surveillance. The publication record is a fair representation of the various activities of the unit. Conclusions The unit develops and operates state of the art technical systems which are of key impor- tance to meet STUK’s obligations in the areas of emergency preparedness, environmental surveillance and CTBTO. The small fraction of manpower dedicated to research activities is at the margin of representing critical mass. It should not be reduced further. The establish- ment of a Xenon-analysis capability would consolidate and strengthen the state of the art scientifi c and technical measurement capabilities of STUK. Recommendations The panel recommends that research activities be maintained at the present level or increased in order to maintain the high quality research. From a strategic point of view, high priority should be given to establish a Xenon-analysis capability. The panel recommends that more emphasis be given to publishing results in international peer-reviewed journals. 6. Regional Laboratory in Northern Finland The goal of the laboratory's research is to study the transport and accumulation of radionu- clides in arctic and subarctic food chains, and in locally produced foodstuffs. The labora- tory has several permanent sampling areas and an extensive network of research institutes, laboratories, authorities, enterprises and private persons etc. that collaborate in collecting samples and information in northern Finland. The panel noted that the head of the Regional Laboratory of Northern Finland retired in 2005 and was succeeded by a young well-qualifi ed scientist and welcomes that the labora- • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:38taittoversio3.indd Osa7:38 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 39International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) tory has expanded the number of staff by December 2005 with yet another young scientist as recommended in the previous evaluation. Furthermore, the panel congratulates the labo- ratory on the plans of moving to new premises above ground in Rovaniemi together with other government laboratories, which will provide a stimulating environment together with other scientists. The panel is of the opinion that the increased group size combined with a young age profi le and the plans of moving the lab offer very stimulating challenges and pos- sibilities for the laboratory. The laboratory is located far from the rest of the STUK, and the panel is pleased to learn that means for travelling between Rovaniemi and Helsinki are suffi ciently available to en- sure a very good contact. A long-time experience and data of series of observations on environmental radioactivity is important for knowing and understanding long-term trends and for maintaining expertise in case of emergency. It is also obvious that the initial objective of this laboratory can be re- garded as completed and could lead decision makers to stop the activity of control. It would be a serious error, in the opinion of the panel, because this laboratory involved in long time- series of measurements, is to the benefi t of public health in monitoring major biogeochemi- cal cycles of our planet, adapted here to the Arctic areas. It is today necessary that a thought is given both at European and world levels to begin to support the continuing existence of such observatories. This does not mean permanent uncontrolled fi nancing, but the observa- tory must: i) collaborate with and provide material for specialists in other fi elds of activity, ii) be evaluated regularly (approximately every 10 years) to check its usefulness in an inter- national network of observatories of the environment. The panel also notes that the assessment of publications must improve along with the arriv- al of the young scientists. Earlier it was diffi cult for a single scientist, i.e. the former head of the laboratory; she was constrained to accumulate data without always being able to ex- ploit it. This laboratory is a European window in the Arctic and must be internationally considered as the most effective laboratory for a remote monitoring of the border area and Russian ter- ritories. Without hesitation, the laboratory deserves to be recognized at the European level, and needs to receive fi nancing that corresponds to the expectations of Europe. Recommendations The objectives of the laboratory must be redefi ned as an international observ- atory of the health of a particular ecosystem of the earth. The pressure from STUK to fi nd external fi nancing is not realistic in this case and should be reconsidered. The laboratory already has a suffi cient workload corresponding to a well-targeted objective. It is diffi cult for the unit to diver- sify into other activities. • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:39taittoversio3.indd Osa7:39 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 40 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) 7. Radiation Biology The Radiation Biology Laboratory is involved in research of the biological and health ef- fects induced by ionising and non-ionising radiation, in doing biological dose assessment by chromosomal analysis, as well as contributing to biological expertise for the assessment of medical consequences of radiation exposures. For fi nancial reasons the laboratory has made the choice of not working on animals. This choice is therefore not a dogmatic one, since the laboratory may collaborate with other in- ternational laboratories having the infrastructures to work on the animals. This is to be en- couraged to avoid the possible drifts between molecular and cellular biologists, and physi- ologists and pathological anatomists. From the research point of view, the laboratory has made the best possible choices and now takes an active part in the new challenges of radiobiology, in collaboration with the best lab- oratories of the world. Indeed, bystander effects, genomic instability and adaptive response are very challenging for the radiation protection establishment. The laboratory needs sound results before any new research areas are suggested. In spite of the attractiveness of the new scientifi c challenges, the laboratory meets its ob- jectives best by focusing its research on the main problems of the Finnish society, i.e. high chronic exposure by natural radionuclides, UV exposure, mobile phones, etc. The prioritisa- tion and elimination of projects were accomplished over the recent years exactly according to the previous recommendations. Besides the fundamental research, the laboratory continues, as a core activity of STUK, in- tensive activities in biological dosimetry and biological indicators with international part- ners. International co-operation is a very important part of the work in biological dosimetry. This trend should be maintained and further developed in the future as well. Radiation Biology Laboratory continues to carry out studies on understanding health ef- fects of exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Collaboration with the Epidemiology Laboratory has to be continued. Conclusion The Radiation Biology Laboratory combines top-level research with the needs of the Finn- ish society. It is a well respected laboratory in the international scientifi c community, its publications are numerous and of high quality. Recommendations To keep the level of quality of research. To keep in mind the particular needs for research in Finland. • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:40taittoversio3.indd Osa7:40 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 41International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) To maintain the collaboration with the Epidemiology Laboratory, especially if molecular epidemiology research will be further enhanced. To evaluate the ethical applications of certain studies, for example, screening. 8. Epidemiology and Biostatistics Among the important changes since the international evaluation of 2000, the panel notes the establishment of the Laboratory of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, now independent of the laboratory of Radiation Biology. This laboratory is young and very enthusiastic, the connections with the Tampere Univer- sity are close, the people having mutual contacts. Contrary to other laboratories, research is the principal activity (96 %) of this laboratory. The strengths of radiation epidemiology studies are the unique radiation exposure situations in Finland (high and chronic natural ra- diation doses, mobile phones), personal identifi cation numbers and high quality registries. Lastly, the laboratory benefi ts from the positive attitude of people participating in the stud- ies. The aims of the laboratory are classical; to increase knowledge on health risks related to io- nising and non-ionising radiation in human populations and to assess medical consequences of radiation exposure. The laboratory is fully involved in all major international studies concerning the epidemiol- ogy of the ionising radiation as well as non-ionising, too. Nevertheless, the laboratory has maintained some specifi c Finnish studies (epidemiology of cabin aircrew), which enables it to keep a critical review with respect to the international studies. But like all the laboratories of epidemiology of this branch of research, all the aspects are covered with the risk of a great dispersion. Indeed, the topics of radiation epidemiology are: the effects of nuclear weapon tests and Chernobyl fallout in Finland, health risks of mobile phones, health effects of UV radiation, health effects of natural radiation, and health effects of occupational exposure. This dispersion is clearly observed everywhere. Conversely, the involvement in many European and international projects is essential and should continue. Moreover, the laboratory must continue to strongly imply itself on the situations specifi c to Finland; uranium and radon. In future special attention has to be paid to the number of projects so that new projects would be started only when it is ensured that there are enough fi nancial and human resourc- es to carry out these projects. The number of publications is very high, mostly they are collective publications of interna- tional projects. This makes it diffi cult to evaluate the real effort devoted by the laboratory staff. The laboratory also takes part in an interdisciplinary project of the STUK "Uranium toxic- ity" in drinking water. This is to be encouraged and, as for the other laboratories, it is now • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:41taittoversio3.indd Osa7:41 16.10.2006 13:07:4216.10.2006 13:07:42 42 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) important to extend this research to other European laboratories with comparable objec- tives, but with different means. This research is particularly important in order to answer the question about the validity of an extrapolation of the biological effects after acute or chronic intoxication. Also taking into consideration Finnish special conditions, the laboratory continues to study the effects of UV, noting the fair skin of Finns, and also, noting industrial options, the possi- ble effects of the mobile phones. Even the international community would probably expect that these effects be studied in this institute. This laboratory is new and enthusiastic, and care should be taken to continue collaboration with other laboratories. Conclusion This laboratory is new, enthusiastic and is largely open to university and international net- works of epidemiology. Like all epidemiology laboratories, this laboratory is working on many topics and hierarchization of projects has to be a permanent effort. Recommendations To maintain its enthusiasm. Not to let its activities disperse too broad in spite of the many requests. To keep the contact with the laboratories having expertise in evaluation of the exposures and doses. 9. Radiation in Health Care – Radiation Metrology The Radiation Practices Regulation is the department of STUK which is responsible for the supervision and regulation of the use of radiation. The regulation and supervision concerns the use of radiation in health care, veterinary medicine, industry, education, research, and work where natural radiation is of special concern. The unit has various obligations in the areas of implementation and supervision of regula- tions in medicine, for the maintenance of the national standards for dose quantities of ionis- ing radiation, the operation of the national dose register, and the approval of individual dose monitoring services. However, only a small fraction of the available resources is allocated in the fi eld of research (20%). The work is performed in collaboration with national hospi- tals and integrated in international networks and research projects. During the last 5 years the 2000 recommendations have been implemented with great suc- cess. The reference levels for X-ray examinations are regularly checked and complemented if necessary. There is no further involvement in research on boron capture therapy. There are good reasons not to implement the recommendation to transfer “the software for the as- sessment of risk from radiation exposure to the epidemiology group”. • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:42taittoversio3.indd Osa7:42 16.10.2006 13:07:4316.10.2006 13:07:43 43International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) The research plan of the unit as described in the publication “Research activities of STUK 2000 - 2004” (STUK-A210) includes all techniques and issues which are currently dis- cussed by the scientifi c community. Due to the rapid technical development cycles of the instrumentation used for medical diagnosis and therapy, this work is and will be an area of high priority for radiation protection and STUK should consider increasing the resources in this area. In the research related to dosimetry and safety of radiotherapy, the laboratory wishes to supplement its expertise with use of Monte Carlo calculations. Taking into ac- count the number of members of the unit it is recommended to visit the German and French laboratories that have already experience in this fi eld, associating these codes with voxel phantoms technology before starting this important work. The German and French experts of the panel offer support to organise the meetings. So far the unit only deals with the medical use of ionising radiation and individual dose monitoring. Non-ionising radiation is explicitly excluded. As the panel observed an increase of applications of diagnostic instruments using non-ionising radiation (e.g. MRI systems), consideration should be given to include these systems in the scope of work of the unit. The panel is impressed by the good quality of the series of annual reports "Radiation prac- tices” and more especially the chapters describing "abnormal incidents". The diversity of the reported incidents shows that the department is well integrated in the multiple activi- ties employing ionising radiations, particularly in the medical world or its expertise of very high quality can only be very benefi cial for the constant improvement of the health care in Finland. It would be good, if on the basis of these analyses, STUK would prepare an inter- national publication awakening the international organisations on the most sensitive aspects of these technologies. The unit has a good publication record that demonstrates its engagement in many areas. In- tegration in international networks (ICRU, IAEA) is excellent. Conclusions The quality of the expertise of STUK in this fi eld is very high. Some points are missing due to manpower. It is easy to enhance this expertise by reinforcing international communica- tions and exchange of experts. Recommendations To keep the expertise in the areas already covered, broaden it to cover new upcoming areas, and increase manpower. The laboratory wishes to supplement its expertise in the codes of Monte Carlo. It is recommended to the laboratory, taking into account the number of people, to visit the German and French laboratories that already have experi- ence in this fi eld, associating these codes with voxel phantoms technology. Present the excellent results and experience and provide feedback to the international scientifi c community. • • • taittoversio3.indd Osa7:43taittoversio3.indd Osa7:43 16.10.2006 13:07:4316.10.2006 13:07:43 44 International Evaluation of the Research Activities of the Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) 10. Non-Ionising Radiation The laboratory carries out regulatory functions, research and technical development work to serve the needs of the radiation safety, regulation and biological studies. As other STUK laboratories, it develops radiation protection standards, disseminates public information on NIR and provides expert services. The unit has a high professional profi le in the area of dosimetry. It is integrated in interna- tional activities. Since the last evaluation, the monitoring of solar radiation has continued; NIR laboratory has been measuring continuously the sun’s UV radiation in the summer and sent real-time information on UV index, measured during the last two days, to STUK’s www pages. The development of accurate radiometry for UV radiation is one of the focus areas of the NIR laboratory. UV radiometry is well performed and the achieved accuracy is suffi cient. Development with the Metrology Research Institute at Helsinki University of Technology (TKK) is a good example of collaboration with universities. The information to the public on health effects of UVR is a priority and active communi- cation about UV radiation risks continues. Information material on STUK’s www pages is remarkable. Collaboration with the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation (TEKES) and European Space Agency for EM-fi eld dosimetry is productive. The laboratory is an es- sential partner for developing exposure systems and dosimetry for biological studies of ra- diation from mobile phones. Active participation in ICNIRP activities is an acknowledgement of the high quality of the laboratory. Taking into account the development of the Finnish industry in mobile phones, research on possible health effects of RF radiation from mobile phones should be continued by STUK as an independent body. Conclusion The unit has a broad variety of activities. The work in the laboratory is mostly technically demanding measurement technology, and therefore contacts with partners working on ef- fects are essential to maintain relevance. The scientifi c reputation of the laboratory is very high and the international co-operation is very active. Taking into account the size of the laboratory, the publication record is reasonable and the results are mainly published in in- ternational journals. Other results that are of general scientifi c interest are only published in Finnish. Recommendations To continue the work of laboratory is highly important because it is either crucial from a health protection, or from public perception point of view.