Knowing the unknowns: Uncertainties during radiological emergencies

摘要: Abstract Emergency management implies making decisions under uncertainty. Though this is a truism, uncertainties faced by different actors during radiological emergencies have not been investigated as intensively other and lack systematic analysis realistic conditions. Hence, the goal of study to identify analyse that may appear emergencies. Furthermore, research explores among which at stages decision-making process these appear. For purpose, non-participatory observation has used 11 nuclear or emergency exercises in period 2017–2018 at 29 points 6 countries 1 international exercise. The observers recorded actual behavior (participants observed exercises) live Results provide valuable insights into complex related actions taken for protection individuals society large emergency. Most synthesized from our observations are practical implementation actions, e.g. potential unexpected failure communication tools channels, inadequacy plans cope with real situation. A high number were also associated knowledge gaps, consistency assessments insufficient familiarity rules procedures. findings can inspire planners stakeholders strengthen management, advance response practices, improve collaboration between situations.