25-P-0047 - Recommendation 1

Assess the National Center for Radiation Field Operations to determine the most efficient and effective use of the center's expertise and resources based on the Agency's responsibilities for responding to radiological emergencies and nonemergencies. The assessment should include but is not limited to the following: a. The importance of the center to the EPA's operational readiness to respond to radiological incidents. b. The role of the center in meeting the EPA's responsibilities under the Nuclear/Radiological Incident Annex to the Response and Recovery Federal Interagency Operational Plan and the National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan. c. The availability, expertise, and location of response personnel with specialized radiological knowledge within the EPA. d. The impact of the center on the mission success of other stakeholders-including EPA regions; state, local, and tribal responders; and other federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Energy. e. Opportunities, such as site assessments, that exist to maximize the utility of the center's skills and expertise. f. The optimal size and staff composition of the center.