Speaker information
Student speaker: Connor McNairn, Carleton University
Developing a Raman spectroscopy based approach for micron-scale dosimetry
Current dosimetry techniques present significant challenges when measuring dose distribution that is both accurate at micron length scales and sensitive to low doses of ionizing radiation. This is particularly important due to the stochastic nature of the energy deposition at low doses relevant for radiation therapy and radiation protection. Radiochromic films (RCFs) are commonly used reference dosimeters that are typically read out with optical scanners that have limited spatial resolutions of 85 – 350 μm. In contrast, Raman spectroscopy is well suited for high resolution readout of RCFs. It is a non-destructive optical technique that measures the inelastic scattering of light due to vibrations within chemical bonds creating a “chemical fingerprint” that can be used to detect changes induced by ionizing radiation. In this presentation the methodology and application of Raman spectroscopy for low dose dosimetry of RCFs will be demonstrated. Ongoing work related to the development of a readout system that will allow for the concurrent measurement of ionizing radiation induced changes in cells and RCFs will be described.
Member presenter: Samy El-Jaby, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
Reimagining Radiological Risk Communication
The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) is mandated, within Canada, to “disseminate objective scientific, technical and regulatory information to the public concerning the activities of the Commission and the effects, on the environment or on the health or safety of persons, of the development, production or use of nuclear energy or the production, possession or use of a nuclear substance, prescribed equipment or prescribed information”. Limiting radiation-induced health risks stemming from regulated activities and communicating those risks to affected parties, therefore, is central to CNSC responsibilities.
ICRP Task Group 122 on the “Update of Detriment Calculation of Cancer” is actively exploring how the tools, metrics, and approaches traditionally used in radiological risk communication could be improved. One alternative to radiation detriment being considered is the Disability Adjusted Life Year (DALY). One DALY is equivalent to one year of healthy life lost and is given as the sum of years lived with a disability (YLD), following diagnosis of a given disease, and years of life lost (YLL) due to premature death from that same disease. This presentation will explore the idea of merging artificial radiation exposure as a risk factor within a DALY framework with the hope of facilitating balanced discussions with affected parties regarding the level of risk from licensed activities relative to other, commonplace factors. Challenges associated with implementation within Canada, a country with active engagement with rightsholders and stakeholders throughout the full lifecycle of nuclear facilities and activities, will also be discussed.