United Nations Scientific Committee On The Effects of Atomic Radiation - Overview

Overview

Less frequently major public reports on Sources and Effects of Ionizing Radiation are issued, as of July 2011, there are 20 major publications from 1958 report to 2010 report. The reports are all available from the UNSCEAR website. These works are very highly regarded as sources of authoritative information and are used throughout the world as scientific basis for evaluation of radiation risk. The publications review studies undertaken separately from a range of sources. Reports from UN member states and other international organisations on data from survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the Chernobyl disaster, accidental, occupational, and medical exposure to ionizing radiation.

Originally, in 1955, India and the Soviet Union wanted to add several neutralist and communist nations, such as mainland China. Eventually a compromise with the US was made and Argentina, Belgium, Egypt and Mexico were permitted to join. The organisation was charged with collecting all available data on the effects of "ionising radiation upon man and his environment." (James J. Wadsworth - American representative to the General Assembly).

The Committee was originally based in the Secretariat Building in New York City, but moved to Vienna in 1974.

The Secretaries of the Committee have been:

Dr. Ray K. Appleyard (UK) (1956–1961) Dr. Francesco Sella (Italy) (1961–1974) Dr. Dan Jacobo Beninson (Argentina) (1974–1979) Dr. Giovanni Silini (Italy) (1980–1988) Dr. Burton Bennett (1988 acting; 1991–2000) Dr. Norman Gentner (2001–2004; 2005 acting) Dr. Malcolm Crick (2005–present)