Technical Advice and Recommendations on the Handling and Storage of Radioactive Wildlife Specimens Collected from Eastern Japan

Abstract

This paper reviews the principles and best practices in occupational radiation safety and provides technical advice and recommendations on the proper handling and storage of zoological specimens and samples obtained from Eastern Japan, the region that has been contaminated with radioactive fallout since the Fukushima-Daiichi nuclear disaster on 11 March 2011. Legal compliance, recognition of potential health hazards and risks, implementation of reasonable safety measures, and streamlining workflow pertaining to fieldwork, laboratory activities, and collections management are essential in minimizing workers' external and internal exposure to ionizing radiation.