TPM-A - AAHP Special Session: Risk Communication in the Context of Low Dose Health Effects Orlando IV 14:30 - 18:00
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| Chair(s): Kathy Pryor, Armin Ansari
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TPM-A.1
14:30 Risk Communications in the Context of Low Dose Health Effects: Communicating in the Courtroom JR Frazier*, Consultant
Abstract: Certified Health Physicists can provide a valuable service in litigation involving claims of adverse health effects from radiation exposures. Their service may include testimony in courts of law - a venue that is usually very challenging to scientists. This presentation will include a brief overview of the types of litigation that may be encountered, the steps in the litigation process, the CHP’s role in each step of the litigation process, and the pitfalls to avoid. The overall role of the CHP is to be the "teacher" - teaching counsel with whom he/she is working, teaching experts in other disciplines who are also working on the case, teaching the Court (judge, magistrate, hearing officer, etc.), and teaching jurors. The presentation will describe how the role of teacher in litigation compares with the usual teaching roles of CHPs. The question/answer format of trial testimony is contrary to the normal teaching setting and, as such, requires detailed "teaching" of counsel prior to testimony in court. It is essential that the CHP understand the challenges that exist when he/she attempts to communicate to jurors and judges the human health risks from low radiation doses. Ordinarily, there is insufficient time during trial testimony to communicate effectively the human health risks (if any) from low radiation doses. However, putting case-related radiation doses in perspective with other radiation doses (such as natural background doses) is a very effective risk communication tool. This presentation will also include several examples of cases where CHP consultation and testimony have been provided.
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TPM-A.2
15:00 Importance of Audience Research in Communicating Radiological Health Information A Ansari*, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Abstract: As health physicists, we benefit from a system of radiological protection that has evolved and matured through decades of research and experience. Yet we face challenges in communicating the robustness of our radiation protection practices. Scientific uncertainties in potential health effects from low doses and low dose rates of radiation, coupled with complex jargon and nuances, can create confusion and misunderstanding in radiological health information provided to members of the public. As recent experience from response to Fukushima incident has shown, such misunderstandings can erode public confidence in the system of radiological protection. The role of radiation protection professionals in communicating radiological health and risk information is critical. The information we provide to the public should not only represent the best science and practice of radiation protection, but it must also employ communication best practices concerning language clarity, brevity, and research-based strategies including the use of diagrams, illustrations and analogies. Audience research informs such practices. This presentation provides several examples and lessons learned.
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TPM-A.0
15:20 Question & Answer Session
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