There are two main goals for radiation protection in emergency response. First is to make sure that immediate doses due to the situation will not result in non-stochastic effects (radiation sickness) and that any doses received will minimize the risk of long-term stochastic effects (cancer). These goals are applied to responders and public alike. To assure these goals are met the US federal government has established Protection Action Guidelines (PAGs) that are based on external and internal radiation doses. PAGs immediately after an incident can include evacuation or sheltering in place. While PAGs for later in an emergency can include population relocation and food embargos. This chapter describes what PAGs are and how doses can be calculated to aid in PAG implementation. It is also important to realize that a radiological emergency can be extremely complicated. It can range from a spill due to a vehicle accident all the way to a terrorist event. Local responder and governments can be overwhelmed by the response and may need assistance. This chapter will conclude by describing a generic emergency, introduce government response teams and provide information on how they will be of assistance during such an event.
