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Chernobyl Nuclear Accident Congressional Hearings Transcript

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239<br />

A2 . As noted above, we would be glad to consult with the Arctic<br />

Research Commission in identifying operators and station<br />

locations<br />

Q3. Are the nuclear particles that are being monitored by<br />

EPA representative ol: the nuclear particles that could be<br />

produced by an accident at any of the existing nuclear<br />

power plants around the world? or are there "holes"<br />

in our particle monitoring capability?<br />

A3. We feel our monitoring program provides adequate coverage to<br />

detect any major release of radioactivity in the environment<br />

as it traverses the United States at the lower altitudes. As<br />

far as "holes" in our monitoring capability, any program can<br />

be more detailed and extensive with more sampling sites and<br />

analyses; however, this must be balanced with other programs<br />

and the resources and personnel available.<br />

Q4. Is there any merit to the claims that our nuclear fallout<br />

monitoring capability is insufficient to protect the safety and<br />

health of our citizens? ...i.e., are there dangerous particles<br />

in the atmosphere that we don't or can't monitor?<br />

A4 . We feel that our national monitoring system which analyzes<br />

major radionuclides and pathways of concern is sufficient<br />

to protect the safety and health of U.S. citizens. We do not<br />

routinely monitor for gaseous radionuclides. We are presently<br />

considering the monitoring of gaseous radioactivity at a<br />

representative number (20) of the present air particulate<br />

stations<br />

Q5. Please explain, in layman's terms, the situation with<br />

respect to radioactivity levels at and around the <strong>Chernobyl</strong><br />

plant, and to a distance of 18 miles.<br />

How much activity will be allowed within the 18 mile<br />

radius of the plant over the next year and longer periods<br />

of time?<br />

A5 . As of this time, we have not received information from<br />

the U.S.S.R. that we would need to address this question.<br />

The Soviets are giving a briefing on the <strong>Chernobyl</strong> accident<br />

in Vienna, Austria, at the end of August. We hope this<br />

forum will provide the information needed to adequately<br />

address your questions.

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