Radiological Dispersal Devices: Select Issues in Consequence Management

The threat of terrorist detonation of a dirty bomb, one type of radiological dispersal device RDD, has focused public attention on efforts to counter the use of this weapon. RDDs are devices, other than a nuclear explosive device, designed to disseminate radioactive material to cause destruction, damage, or injury. A dirty bomb is a type of RDD in which explosives disperse the radioactive material, but in general RDDs do not require explosives. An RDD attack might cause casualties, economic damage, and, potentially, public panic, though experts disagree on the likely magnitude of each of these effects. The impact of an RDD attack would depend on many variables, such as meteorological conditions, type and amount of radiological material, duration of exposure, and method of dispersal. Issues of potential congressional interest include the level of federal funding for research and development of medical countermeasures against RDDs and the appropriateness of current standards for environmental decontamination following an RDD attack. The possibility that terrorist groups might use an RDD in a civilian setting has increased government and public concern about such weapons. This report addresses the controversies surrounding the health effects of low-level radiation, concerns related to decontamination following an RDD attack, and the issue of federal research into RDD countermeasures. The report will be updated as events warrant.