The science ministry will set up a call center Oct. 24 for members of the public to report so-called radiation hot spots.
The science ministry will set up a call center Oct. 24 for members of the public to report so-called radiation hot spots.
It will be set up with a special measurement team within the Emergency Operation Center at the science ministry.
The call center will be available to all prefectures except Fukushima, which already has its own radioactive decontamination assistance framework.
A radiation hot spot is defined as a location where the radiation level at a height of 1 meter above the ground is more than 1 microsievert per hour higher than the surroundings. For example, since the radiation level in Tokyo's Shinjuku Ward is currently 0.056 microsievert per hour, any reading above 1.056 microsievert per hour is considered a radiation hot spot.
Science ministry guidelines recommend reading the figure indicated on a dosimeter 30 seconds after the measurement begins at a height of 1 meter above the ground.
If the elimination of mud and fallen leaves from side ditches, cutting of tree branches and other simple decontamination measures prove ineffective, the call center will cooperate with local governments to inspect the site.
It will contact the environment ministry or the Cabinet Office, as need arises, to assist in decontamination efforts.
The call center's number is 03-5253-4111, extension 4630 or 4631, between 9:30 a.m. and 6:15 p.m. on weekdays. Relevant guidelines are available on a website.