Optimization in relocation decisions

Abstract

After major accidents involving relocation of population groups, decisions would be required regarding permission to reinhabit evacuated areas or to continue using other areas. One component of these decisions can be based on optimization assessments, taking into account the residual contamination and the ensuing doses and the cost of maintaining the countermeasures as a function of time. This paper presents a rationale for such optimization assessments and the procedures for obtaining intervention levels from them, and summarizes some applications of this approach in emergency planning in Argentina.