Measurement creates trust

Probe for measuring the local dose rate (Ortsdosisleistung/ODL)

Around 50 years ago, a new network for the measurement of radiation was launched in Germany. In order to be able to assess a radiological hazard in the event of a possible nuclear weapon attack at an early stage, devices for measuring the ambient gamma dose rate (ODL; Ortsdosisleistung) have gradually been installed throughout Germany since 1974. With around 1,700 probes, Germany now has the most comprehensive measuring network worldwide. This network has been operated by the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS) since 1997. Even if the requirements have changed – the idea of the measuring network as an early warning system is just as topical as it was 50 years ago.

In light of the 50th anniversary of the ODL measuring network, the President of the BfS, Inge Paulini, states that "The events in Ukraine in particular have shown that the ODL measuring network inspires great confidence in the population. Knowing that even a small increase in radioactivity would not go undetected has helped to calm concerns about Ukrainian nuclear power stations, especially at the beginning of the Russian war of aggression."

First component for the ODL measuring network installed in Holzkirchen/Bavaria in 1974

Considerations for a nationwide radioactivity measuring network in Germany date back to the late 1960s. The first probe for this semi-automated measuring network was installed in Holzkirchen (Upper Bavaria) in 1974. Whilst the first probes were still used for civil defence, environmental protection was added after the nuclear disaster in Chornobyl (russ.: Chernobyl). The purely emergency system has now become a system for the continuous monitoring of both artificial and natural environmental radioactivity.

ODL Measuring Network comprises 1,700 probes nation-wide.

In Germany, the natural radiation is between 0.05 and 0.2 microsieverts per hour. If the measured radioactivity level at one measuring station exceeds a certain threshold, a message is automatically triggered.

The measuring stations are now spread across Germany at a distance of around 20 km. In a radiological emergency, continuous measurements of the ODL network would be an important basis for the further assessment of the situation and the initiations of measures to protect the population.

Technical development and expansion in the area

In the face of the war in Ukraine and new geopolitical threats, the original civil protection objectives of the ODL measuring network are once again coming to the forefront. In order to achieve this, the measuring network still needs to be adapted even 50 years after its inception. This includes further technical development. The measuring network is to be made more resistant to external influences such as power outages or cyberattacks.

In addition, the measuring network must be expanded. In the next few years, around 100 new measuring stations are to be set up in 15 major German cities in order to provide even better protection for the population in metropolitan areas – for example in shopping streets, at train stations, and around stadiums.

Offer for media

If required, mobile measuring systems can be used to supplement the ODL measuring network

The central anniversary event, which will take place on 19 and 20 March in Berlin, will also focus on the further development of the measuring network. Representatives of the BfS and the Federal Environment Ministry as well as other state and non-state institutions will discuss the challenges posed by the changing security situation and how these can be addressed. Steffi Lemke, Federal Minister for the Environment, is also expected to attend the ceremony.

On the sidelines of the event, an exhibition will provide an overview of 50 years of radioactivity measurement. If you are interested in the ceremony, please contact presse@bfs.de.

In addition to the central event in Berlin, you also have the opportunity to learn more about the measuring network in your region. With 1,700 measuring probes, there is certainly a probe near your editorial office, and the BfS employees in your area will be more than happy to show it you. If you are interested, please do not hesitate to contact us. Information on the federal radioactivity measuring network can also be found at https://odlinfo.bfs.de/.