Abstract
Currently, legislation relating to hazardous sites is becoming more
rigorous, with the exception of nuclear installations and these are
being addressed. A particular facet of accidents at nuclear
installations involving radioactivity is potassium iodate prophylaxis as
a counter measure. Effective distribution of stable iodine is important,
with early issue to an affected populace critical. Present arrangements
are unsatisfactory in that the Police Service is the principal agency
for such distribution, with other agencies, for example the Health
Service, acting in support. There is limited pre‐distribution to
designated sites, but the practice varies throughout the country.
Considerable thought has been given to the matter of an effective
distribution process with the possibility shortly of guidance. It is
unclear what arrangements will be in the future for this distribution
and the matter will have to be treated with considerable care, bearing
in mind the sensitivity of this subject as far as the public is
concerned.