This is a brief description of studies that exemplify the methods and approaches that have been developed and used by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) researchers in conducting integrated assessments. See the complete list of Integrated Assessment Briefs to find out more about ORNL's efforts in integrated assessment. Contact Mike Farrell (farrellmp@ornl.gov) for more information.

Integrated Assessment Model in a Risk Framework

Monte-Carlo-generated frequency distribution of the dose-equivalent to the thyroid gland of infants (rem/yr) from ingestion of radioiodine-131-contaminated milk. Values were predicted from an atmospheric dispersion, food chain, and glandular dose model (Table 1 in reference) with statistical properties of the parameters described in Table 2 (see reference). Dose calculations are based on a fixed arbitrary release of 1 Ci/yr and constant wind direction.

How can integrated assessment models be placed into a risk framework?

A regional scale model for atmosphere and foodchain transport of radioiodine was integrated with Monte Carlo simulations to transform the deterministic solution into estimates of risk for higher radiological doses to human infants.

O'Neill, R. V., R. H. Gardner, F. O. Hoffman, and G. Schwarz. 1981. Parameter uncertainty and estimated radiological dose to man from atmospheric 131I releases: A Monte Carlo approach. Health Physics 40:760-764.

Where To?

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Integrated Assessment Briefs. 1995. ORNL/M-4227. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN.