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The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is in the process of rescinding or revising guidance and policies posted on this webpage in accordance with Executive Order 14151 Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, and Executive Order 14168 Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. In the interim, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

Home About NRC Radiation Protection How the NRC Protects You Health Physics Positions Based on 10 CFR Part 20

Health Physics Questions and Answers - Question 97

Question 97: 10 CFR 20.1201 (b) refers to "doses received during accidents, emergencies, and . . . ." Is there any difference between an "accident" and an "emergency"?

Answer: Yes. An accident is an unexpected and undesirable event. An emergency is a situation or occurrence of a serious nature, developing suddenly and unexpectedly, and demanding immediate action. Thus an accident usually results in an emergency, but it is possible to have an emergency without an accident (e.g., action taken in an emergency may prevent an accident). In either case, licensees must account for doses received in excess of the annual limits in either an accident or an emergency, or both, in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1201 (b).

(Reference: 10 CFR 20.1201 (b)).

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Friday, December 15, 2017