Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is RAP?

The Radiological Assistance Program (RAP), through the DOE/NNSA, will provide radiological monitoring and assessment assistance during radiological emergencies or incidents where the release of radioactive materials is suspected or occurred.

Where is RAP Located?

There are eight geographical DOE regional offices in the USA, along with the National Capitol Regional Office. The RAP Region 1 office is located at Brookhaven National Laboratory, Upton. N.Y.

What states does Region 1 cover?

RAP Region 1 covers the following states: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, and Delaware.

Who can you call for assistance?

Requests for Region 1 assistance can be made by calling the 24 hour emergency number: 631-344-2200. See also the contacts page.

What information should you provide when placing a call for assistance?

  • Nature of incident - Is radioactive material involved?
  • Callers name, title, location, and telephone number
  • Time of incident
  • Location of incident
  • Fire or other hazard involved
  • Seriousness of incident
  • Weather conditions
  • Personnel involved ( e.g. injuries, contamination)
  • Federal, tribal, state or local agencies notified and on the scene
  • Directions and accessibility of incident / event scene

What is the typical RAP team response time?

Teams are fully mobilized within two hours of activation, and will arrive on the scene within six hours.

What is the standard response equipment?

RAP teams will arrive on the scene with radiation detection equipment, personnel dosimetry, communications equipment, protective and support gear.

What are the limitations of assistance?

RAP supports and provides assistance to the appropriate on scene authority. Assistance does not preempt state, tribal, or local authority. The primary responsibility for the incident remains with the owner of the radioactive material.

When does assistance end?

RAP involvement ends when assistance is no longer needed or there are other sufficient resources ( state, local, private ) at the scene.

What is the Search Response Team?

Deployed by commercial air with portable radiological detection equipment. Team on a two hour recall. Basic principles include:

  • Search for lost, stolen, or hidden nuclear / radiological materials
  • Use a dedicated search group as the core response
  • Use field trained personnel for increased capabilities.

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Last Modified: January 31, 2008
Please forward all questions about this site to: Donna Gill