At the national level, legislation is adopted which allocates clearly the responsibilities for the preparedness and response to a nuclear or radiological emergency. This legislation takes account of and implements EU requirements for emergency preparedness arrangements, including arrangements for informing the public. The legislation also addresses international obligations. Measures are taken which lead to the early identification and effective management of events at nuclear installations or during the transport of radioactive materials in order to protect against the dangers arising from ionizing radiation.
Each country has established an emergency planning system to protect its population, property and environment from the harmful impacts of radioactive materials. Effective emergency responses call for the development and implementation of emergency plans at the national, local and site level (national emergency plans, off-site emergency plans, on-site emergency plans).
The government must identify the governmental body or organisation that will act as the national coordinating authority and must meet all relevant EU and international requirements. This authority should also foster the implementation by other states of measures to fulfil their obligations in compliance with the requirements of the International Conventions.
