Säteilysuojelujärjestelmän

Säteilysuojelujärjestelmän refers to the radiation protection system in Finland. Its primary purpose is to safeguard individuals and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. This system is established by law and encompasses a broad range of measures and organizations.

The Finnish Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (Säteilyturvakeskus, STUK) is the central authority responsible for overseeing and enforcing radiation safety regulations. STUK's duties include licensing, supervision, regulation development, research, and providing guidance on radiation protection matters. They monitor radiation levels, assess risks, and ensure compliance with national and international standards.

The Säteilysuojelujärjestelmän covers various sources of radiation, including medical uses of X-rays and radioactive isotopes, industrial applications, research facilities, and potential nuclear accidents. It also addresses natural sources of radiation, such as radon in buildings. Key components of the system include requirements for protective equipment, dose monitoring for workers exposed to radiation, and emergency preparedness plans.

The system emphasizes the principles of justification, optimization, and limitation of radiation exposure. Justification means that any practice involving radiation must provide a net benefit to society. Optimization, often referred to as the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), dictates that radiation doses should be kept as low as possible, even below regulatory limits. Limitation ensures that individuals do not receive doses exceeding established dose limits.

Collaboration with international organizations like the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the European Union ensures that Finland's radiation protection practices are aligned with global best practices and harmonize with international regulations. The Säteilysuojelujärjestelmän is a dynamic system, continually evolving to incorporate new scientific knowledge and technological advancements to maintain a high level of safety.