Some Problems with the CBRN Risk Quantification in Terms of Stochastic and Deterministic Effects Taking into Account the Health Impact of Individual Agents

Abstract

The total risk of Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense (CBRN) has to be expressed using relevant quantities and units introduced for each of their components, t.e., chemical (C), biological (B), radiological (R) and nuclear (N). Their specific properties characterise their ability to move in the environment and inflict harm on persons affected. While in the case of R and N components, the danger is induced by radiation, the assessment of the hazards from C and B agents is much more complicated. The paper discusses the quantification of CBRN risk as a whole, paying attention to two possible consequences of exposure-initiating harms: stochastic (late) and deterministic effects (tissue reactions). The main aim of the paper was to point out the inconsistencies between the concept of risk assessment of the group of agents C and B and the group R and N of the CBRN family including the lack of the rigorous evaluation of deterministic and stochastic health effects of chemical and biological substances.