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The IRPA13 Congress took place from 14-18 May 2012 in Glasgow, Scotland, UK, and was attended by almost 1500 radiological protection professionals. The scientific programme of the Congress was designed to capture a snapshot of the profession's views of the current state of knowledge, and of the challenges seen for the coming years. This paper provides a summary of these results of the Congress in twelve key scientific areas that served as the structural backbone of IRPA13. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the scientific and social challenges of the radiological protection community from 2011 onwards and their effect on the increase of nuclear power plants for electricity generation. The construction of nuclear power plants has reportedly always raised local issues and opposition, with positive decisions on such matters taking time. It is stated that governments should clearly define values, roles and responsibilities, consult with stakeholders and avail of state-of-the-art science before making decisions.

The article discusses the key structures and current challenges for international systems of radiological protection. An introduction to radiological protection notes the key principles of justification, optimization of protection, and exposure limitation. Questions on the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) are cited for both policy and practical aspects, and addresses exposure situations such as planned, emergency, and existing.

The article discusses designs for fourth generation nuclear reactors and challenges in radiation protection. Several nations, including the U.S., Great Britain, and Japan cooperated to form the Generation IV International Forum (GIF). The GIF was established to create a framework for designing nuclear energy systems that provide sustainable energy, meet clean air standards, minimize nuclear waste, present economic advantages and reduce possibilities of core damage or terrorism. Among the reactor designs discussed are gas-cooled fast reactors (GFRs), lead-cooled fast reactors (LFRs) and supercritical-water-cooled reactors (SCWRs). The authors discuss how stakeholder involvement, risk assessment and scientific development will affect radiation protection.