Nuclear accidents and their message

In her lecture “Nuclear accidents and their message,” Dr. Drábová first introduces the various sources of radiation, both natural and artificial.  We learn about the causes of radiation sickness and its symptoms, and we also get a glimpse inside the depths of a nuclear reactor and the dangers it holds.  The final part of the lecture focuses on the nuclear power plant accidents at Three Mile Island, Chernobyl, and Fukushima 1.

What was covered in the lecture?

• Which often overlooked (yet quite common) source of radiation easily outshines even the Chernobyl accident? – 15:23
• What did the builders of Karlštejn Castle know about nuclear reactors? – 38:58
• What happens to nuclear waste dumped or fallen into the world’s oceans? – 1:12:06
• Why is it unwise to determine which nuclear power plant is currently the least safe? – 1:25:12

Who is Dana Drábová?

Dana Drábová is a nuclear physicist and probably the most recognizable figure associated with nuclear energy in the Czech Republic for several decades.  She graduated from FJFI ČVUT and, by her own account, initially chose a job she didn’t enjoy at all.  Then the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident happened, changing her life and career.  Today, Dana Drábová has been leading the State Office for Nuclear Safety as its chairwoman since 1999.

Dana Drábová holds two honorary doctorates and the Medal of Merit, First Class.  She also serves as the deputy mayor of the town of Pyšely.  In person, Dr. Drábová radiates remarkable calm and has a very pleasant sense of humor. A special bonus from the perspective of our Evening at FF UK was that during her career, Dana Drábová visited Chernobyl, Fukushima, and Three Mile Island—the sites of all the nuclear accidents discussed in the lecture.