FHIs contribution to RadoNorm; Towards effective radiation protection based on improved scientific evidence - focus on radon and NORM

RadoNorm is a joint European research project that aims to increase knowledge about all forms of radioactive exposure from natural sources. The project aims to fill knowledge gaps in all forms of radiation protection. It includes scientific, technical and societal aspects of radon and other natural radiation sources. To reach the project goal, the project will carry out research and technical development at all important stages in the risk assessment process. It includes research into risk management, biomedical and ecological mechanisms and social science aspects. The project will coordinate research between radiation protection authorities, universities, other research institutions and private businesses. An important part of the project is to disseminate the research results through teaching and publications. A goal is to provide updated recommendations for everyone involved in radiation protection. The main tasks of the project is to: 1/ characterise exposure to natural sources of radioactivity, 2/ improve dosimetry, 3/ calculate risk and effects on humans and the environment, 4/ improve methods and technology for increased protection, 5 / increase understanding of societal consequences of radioactivity. The project roles of the Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH) is to contribute to: A/ strengthen the knowledge of whether radon and natural radioactivity contribute to blood cancer in children, B/ characterise how radon and radioactive particles affect the body's organs, if possible with doses comparable to natural exposure. The NIPH's register data (MoBa) will be compared with data sources for radiation exposure in Norway, and coordinated with European collaborators. The mechanisms of radioactive influence will be studied in animal studies with analyzes of the distribution of radioactive isotopes in the body. It involves the study of genetic and cellular mechanisms in the relevant vulnerable organs, and what health risks it is thought to pose.

The RadoNorm project will support European Union Member States Associated Countries and the European Commission in the implementation of the Council Directive 2013/59/EURATOM laying down Basic Safety Standards (BSS) for protection against the dangers arising from exposure to ionising radiation at the legal, executive and operational level. The project aims to significantly reduce scientific, societal as well as technical uncertainties in all steps of the radiation risk management cycle for radon and NORM (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials; the term NORM will include aspects of TENORM, i.e. Technologically Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials, in this proposal) exposure situations. It will improve radiation protection by: • initiating, supporting and performing multidisciplinary, innovative, integrated research and technical developments, • integrating education and training (E&T) in the research and development work of the project, • disseminating the project achievements through special actions targeted at the public, other stakeholders including regulatory authorities and policy makers. Folkehelseinstituttet (FHI used in this application, NIPH in the Euratom application) will be involved in two tasks in one work package in the RadoNorm project: Task 4.3 Studies on the association of radon and childhood leukemia and brain cancer and Task 4.8 Effects and mechanisms of action of combined exposures to radon or NORM and other stressors relevant of true exposure situations of humans and biota.