Methodology for radioecological assessment of radionuclides permissible levels in the seas - protection of human and marine biota

Institute of Experimental Meteorology of SPA "Typhoon", Lenin Avenue 82, Kaluga Region, 249038 Obninsk, Russia

Abstract

The methodology of radioecological assessment was developed for radionuclides permissible levels in sea waters. The control concentrations were calculated under the following conditions: exposure from consumption of marine foodstuffs should not exceed 10 % of the permissible dose limit. Radiation doses to marine biota of lower than 1 % of the lethal dose or significant dose of chronic exposure are assumed not to lead to a significant impact on populations or communities. Hygienic criteria are more rigid than radioecological ones for most radionuclides. Real concentrations of radionuclides (⁹⁰Sr, ¹³⁷Cs, ²³⁹Pu, ²⁴⁰Pu and some others) in sea water are 10³-10⁴ times lower than control concentrations. The proposed control concentrations of radionuclides in sea water, ensuring the radiation safety of the population, ensure the radiation safety of marine flora and fauna as well.