Analysis of the peaceful nuclear explosions data in radiation-hygienic passports of the subjects of the Russian Federation

During the implementation of the "Nuclear Explosions for the National Economy" program between 1965 and 1985, 82 peaceful nuclear explosions were conducted on the territory of the Russian Federation. Monitoring of the explosion sites is crucial due to the potential risk of radioactive contamination spreading from the epicenter into groundwater and surface waters, and onto the land surface, which could lead to environmental contamination. In accordance with SanPiN 2.6.1.2819-10, the results of radiation monitoring at peaceful nuclear explosion sites must be included into the Radiation-Hygienic Passports of the territories. The aim of this work is to analyze the completeness of information presentation regarding the radiation situation at peaceful nuclear explosion sites in the Radiation-Hygienic Passports of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation for the period from 2010 to 2023. Materials and Methods: The study used data from the Radiation-Hygienic Passports for 2010-2023 of those constituent entities of the Russian Federation where peaceful nuclear explosions were conducted. The computer program FBD-RGPt MR 2.6.1.0257-21 was used as the tool for working with the territorial passports. Results and Discussion: The analysis revealed significant differences between regions in the quality and completeness of the provided data. A formalistic approach and data duplication were noted in the completion of the Radiation-Hygienic Passports. Regions that did not account for peaceful nuclear explosions when filling out the Radiation-Hygienic Passports for the entire study period were identified. These subjects include Stavropol Krai, Nenets Autonomous Okrug, Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, the Republic of Kalmykia, and the Republic of Komi. Murmansk Oblast included information on peaceful nuclear explosions in its territorial radiation-hygienic passport only once, in 2019. The Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) ceased providing data on peaceful nuclear explosions in the Radiation-Hygienic Passports from 2017 onwards. Conclusion: The obtained results highlight the necessity of continuing the monitoring of peaceful nuclear explosion sites and the importance of interagency cooperation in the preparation of Radiation-Hygienic Passports for the territories.

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