Office of Standards — Standards for the Performance Radiation and Nuclear Detection Equipment Fact Sheet

High levels of radiation can be fatal. Unfortunately, radiation cannot be detected without specialized equipment. Re-liable radiation detection equipment is needed by customs and border officials and by first responders to inspect in-coming vehicles and cargo to determine if an area is safe after a radiological incident. Decision makers need this in-formation to determine when and if to reopen buildings, neighborhoods, or other areas that have been contaminated. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) developed standards and guidance documents for radiation and nuclear (Rad/Nuc) detection equipment to ensure the performance of this equipment is dependable to safeguard DHS personnel and first responders.