REMPAN at international level : Current status

ABSTRACT

The mitigation of the public health consequences of disasters and emergencies is particularly dependent on the speed of an effective response, which in turn depends on preparedness to act, and access to information on the hazards involved. Technological disasters that cause radiation hazards are of special concern. For the promotion of radiation emergency medical and public health preparedness and for practical assistance and advice to countries in a case of overexposure from any source of radiation, WHO has established the network of specialized institutions (REMPAN). The present meeting is held at the 10th anniversary of REMPAN. It describes the current status of REMPAN since its first steps. In the narrow sense of the word, REMPAN means a network consisting of WHO Collaborating Centres located in specialized radiological institutions in Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, India, Japan, the Russian Federation, United Kingdom and USA. The objectives of REMPAN are 1. Promote the preparedness for radiation accidents among WHO Member States; 2. Provide advice and assistance in a case of a radiation accident and radiological emergency and 3. Assist in follow-up studies. In addition to the objectives, REMPAN would benefit from sharing the experience and unique expertise in follow-up studies. Describe REMPAN actions for assistance to the accident country and WHO and REMPAN actions in the phases of an accident in compliance with the Convention on Early Notification and Assistance Convention