Purpose: The aim of this study was to provide the information needed to optimise a nuclear accident to human resource development training programmes for radiological technologists (RTs) based on the experience of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station (FDNPS) accident.
Methods: A total of 330 respondents (availability rate: 56.5%) were obtained through a postal questionnaire survey of RTs in Fukushima Prefecture. The analysed items were the relationship between the individual attributes, subject's experience in responding to the FDNPS accident, and subject's records of participating in nuclear accident trainings before the FDNPS accident with regard to 1) "skills that need to be learnt (4 items)" and 2) "basic knowledge (4 items)" to respond to a nuclear accident.
Results: Regarding 1), air ambient dose and body surface contamination measurements were significantly associated with the number of beds at a place of work at the time of the FDNPS accident. In addition, consultations on radiation exposure were significantly associated with the experience in responding to the FDNPS accident and the records of participating in nuclear accident trainings before the FDNPS accident. Regarding 2), knowledge of internal exposure was significantly related to the years of employment at the time of the FDNPS accident and the experience in responding to the FDNPS accident.
Conclusion: By considering the results of this study, it should be possible to provide training programmes for a nuclear accident that are optimally tailored to the background of the RTs.
Keywords: Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station accident; radiation protection; radiological technologist; risk communication; training programme.