Radiation Safety in Nuclear Energy Exploration (1960s)

This political propaganda video about nuclear energy promotes a variety of now dated ideas about the promise of atomic power. According to the film, the Public Health Service and the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission would like to inform the public about nuclear energy and the risks to health and life. Nuclear energy, produced by nuclear power plants, is being used as a source of heat, light, and power to cities, industry, and in the propulsion of ships. It is also used in agriculture and medical research. This is all a great catalogue of the history of nuclear power.

There are three main categories of nuclear energy which are Aerospace Nuclear Reactor Test, Plowshare Program, and the Seismic Research Program. The Aerospace Nuclear Reactor Test is creating engines to propel rockets to outer space. The Plowshare Program is developing nuclear power to compete with oil, coal, and natural gas. The initial investment is high; however, can pay off in the long haul. They are also looking into how to use underground explosions for construction means. The Seismic Research Program is looking to improve methods of underground detonations. They are currently detonating with seismic readings all around the world to study the recordings. While doing all this, they always make sure to check if the local drinking water has been contaminated. They must see if there is any surface radiation.

The Atomic Energy Commission has partnered with the Public Health Service, Weather Bureau, the Geological Survey, Coast and Geodetic Survey, and the Bureau of Mines. These groups are all working together to protect public health, and shockingly downplay the effects of nuclear radiation.

The Atomic Energy Commission makes programs to inform the public, specifically the near the test area. They use any sort of media to get their message out there so the people are informed. Public officials, school administrators, and other groups and informed based on their specific needs.

The commission is constantly monitoring for radiation. Ground crews are ready at a moment’s notice to scan the areas. Film badges are places all over towns to monitor each portion of town. They sample indigenous foods, soil, milk, and potable and other water supplies. The researchers specifically look at underground water supplies. They will monitor those for up to five years.

Farmers are also informed about what might specifically happen to their livestock. The commission has been running tests for years now. They even allow a sample heard to live near the research area where fissions products are known to be. Sometimes a cow is sacrificed, and (unrealistically) researchers have yet to find any significant affects from radiation yet.

This video, which expounds upon myths about radiation safety, is amazingly biased - but that's where its historical significance lies. This film is not a good source for facts on nuclear energy. It is, however, an excellent source for historical evidence of political propaganda and how governments can turn a blind eye to the dangers and harmful effects of radiation. Media misinformation at its finest.