Living with Radiation – Engaging with Society
The theme that has been selected for the IRPA13 Congress is both interesting and challenging. It reminds us that while exposure to radiation may be either voluntary or involuntary, the management of protection will always involve social decisions and choices. To make such decisions and choices requires knowledge and wisdom, and the objective of this Congress is to increase both of these in order to help members of the radiation protection profession better address their responsibilities.
Public perception and understanding of radiation risks are often at distinct variance from the views of scientific experts. It is increasingly apparent that for many ventures involving radiation it can be impossible to move forward successfully without a structured and meaningful engagement with stakeholders, especially local communities. The Congress will therefore provide opportunities for radiation protection professionals to share experiences amongst ourselves, but also to experience and interchange views with those outside our profession – i.e. those who are often called our stakeholders.
