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the letter dated January
suggest the following:
1.
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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.
2.
That an attempt be made to improve the statistical analyses of data in
all letter and formal reports to DOE.
Even thouch letters may be
followed by more comprehensive formal reports it is important that
Jetter reports present effective data summaries to provide DOE with
timely information upon which decisions may be based.
Use of Rongelap Crabs for Food
The Advisory Group was asked by staff to review a memorandum on the
radiological impact of coconut crabs from the Northern Islands of Rongelap
(Greenhouse; BNL - McCraw; DOE 1/10/79). -The Group assumes that the assessmen’
will be the subject of a more formal report since the conclusions given in
the verbal presentation appeared to be in conflict with the memorandum.
The staff should review the final report and insure that their recommendations
are communicated in an effective manner to the Rongelap people.
Predictions of Radiation Doses to Present and Returning Residents of the
Marshall Islands
Because decisions regarding habitation of the Marshall Islands will be
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
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