Mrs. Ruth Clusen
4
May 29, 1979
The Group, therefore, recommends that DOE bring to the attention of
both the
the need for a caretul ? studv to assess
authorities
—f “appropriate
“lL , teh
A,
ay
ri
Nite , TT SKS and benefits. Ihestudy should be done in concert with the
page leds
,enewetak
peopie.
lacs Data
Oed Brookhaven Bikini
peered
4.
.
The presentation by Nat Greenhouse to the Advisory Group on March 28 and
the letter dated January
suggest the following:
1.
oO
—
nea
4
pave’
-.
PRR
a
5.
,
f
2.
10, 1979, from Mr. Greenhouse to Tommy McCraw
That communication should be improved between Brookhaven National
Laboratory and LLL regarding the design, implementation, statistical
analysis and dose estimation procedures with regard to radiological
surveys of the environs and people inhabiting the Northern Marshall
Islands.
That an attempt be made to improve the statistical analyses of data in
atl Jetter and formal reports to DOE. Even though letters may be
followed by more comprehensive formal reports it is important that
letter reports present effective data summaries to provide DOE with
timely information upon which decisions may be based.
Use of Rongelap Crabs for Food
Shaye.
The Advisory Group was asked by staff to review a memorandum on the
Dhara be
radiological impact of coconut crabs from the Northern Islands of Rongelap
~‘
( oT{ Greenhouse; BNL - McCraw; DOE 1/10/79).
-The Group assumes that the assessment
Yai ;hMwe’ “|< pill be the subject of a more formal reportsincetheconclusions givenin
Ned delet, romeChe verbal presentation appeared to be in conflictwiththememorandup.
.
yee.
The staff should review the final report and insure that their recommendations
Eevee r
are communicated in an effective manner to the Rongelap people.
6.
Predictions of Radiation Doses to Present and Returning Residents of the
Marshall Islands
Because decisions regarding habitation of the Marshall Islands will be
oo
ry ON keene
pandgen Pe
es Fy
eee p7.,,
{pre te oN
based on predictions of radiation doses to present and returning residents,
the Advisory Group recommends that all such dose calculations be independently
verified by two or more organizations and that the basis for these calculation:
be clearly presented. This is not intended to reflect on Livermore activities
but we believe DOE cannot risk a repeat of the Bikini experience.
~* error could have major consequences.
Singerely yours,
W. J. Bair, Ph.D.
Manager
,
Environment, Health and Safety
Research Program
WJB:ms
cc:
Northern Marshall Islands Advisory Group
J. L. Deal
A small