Jackson D, Stone D, Butler GG, McGlynn G. The derivation and application of a risk related value of the spend for saving a statistical life.
JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2004;
24:41-59. [PMID:
15080548 DOI:
10.1088/0952-4746/24/1/004]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The concept of a risk related value of the spend for saving a statistical life (VSSSL) is advanced for use in cost-benefit studies across the power generation sector, and the nuclear industry in particular. For illustrative purposes, a best estimate VSSSL is set based on HSE guidance at 2 M pounds. Above a risk of 10(-3) y(-1) it is assumed that the VSSSL may approach this maximum sustainable value. As the risk reduces so does the VSSSL. At a risk level of 10(-6) y(-1) a VSSSL of 0.5 M pounds is applied. For risks below 10(-9) y(-1) the value of further risk reduction approaches zero, although a nominal VSSSL of 10 k pounds is applied as a pragmatic way forward in this study. The implications of adopting this concept as an aid to decision making in determining the spend on radiological dose reduction measures are illustrated through a worked example with a banded approach to estimating collective dose.
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