ECRS: A tool for risk assessment and evaluation of countermeasures associated with radon exposure in dwellings

ECRS (European Commission Radon Software) is a software for risk calculation and evaluation of countermeasures associated with exposure to radon in dwellings. This Windows based tool for PCs has been jointly developped by the CEPN (Nuclear Protection Evaluation Centre) and the NRPB (National Radiological Protection Board), with support from the European Commission. The aim of ECRS is to perform lung cancer risk calculations specific to European populations for various exposure profiles and to evaluate, in terms of risk reduction, the effects of various countermeasures in dwellings. The software evaluates the risk of lung cancer associated with individual or collective exposure to radon, using either the epidemiological or the dosimetric approach. In both cases, demographic data specific to the selected population are used and the modifying effect of tobacco consumption on the risk is adjusted for. The main risk indicators calculated are the whole life mortality excess risk and loss of life expectancy. A system of monetary value of life allows also to identify the most cost-effective countermeasure. This software is first of all an evaluation tool that allows users to gain knowledge of risks associated with radon exposure as well as the different risk reduction strategies. Finally, its sensitivity analysis capabilities and its database system should make it an easy to use tool for the risk evaluation experts of various countries to perform useful calculations, appropriate to their situations with regard to local radon patterns. © EDP Sciences 2001.