Particle data management - turning data into accessible information

The UKAEA has assigned significant resources to the monitoring and retrieval of particles from the vicinity of its site at Dounreay in the north of Scotland. The monitoring, retrieval and analytical processes each generate information that is required for interpretative and record purposes. As significant resources are made available for studying and retrieving particles, the information collected must be managed in a logical, stable and accessible manner to protect the investment in information. If suitable data management procedures are not in place there is a high risk of data loss and duplication, and stakeholders may be unable to discover what information is already available or be unable to access the existing information. UKAEA Dounreay operates a geographic information system ( GIS) that interfaces with a data management system known as IMAGES. These systems are used to securely store and access a wide range of environmental data including those relating to particles. A case study is presented illustrating the processes and systems involved with the collection, storage, analysis and distribution of particle data. The advantages gained through use of the GIS system are considered in relation to alternative types of record management system such as paper, and electronic non- spatial systems. It is considered that the GIS system offers very significant benefits in terms of standardisation of data capture, security of storage and increased accessibility of data compared with other systems.