Scenarios

The same room is not equally protective in every radiological event. ShelterFactor therefore starts with exposure pathways rather than labels.

Airborne release

When the principal concern is radioactive material in outside air, timing, ventilation state, filtration and uncontrolled air exchange dominate the sheltering problem.

Fallout and deposition

After material deposits on roofs, ground and other surfaces, external radiation and contamination control can become increasingly important. Building geometry and shielding then matter alongside air management.

Short versus extended sheltering

For short periods, a normal building may provide useful protection with relatively simple measures. Extended occupation adds engineering constraints: air quality, power, water, sanitation, communications, maintenance and human factors.

Scenario-specific assessment

ShelterFactor will avoid a single universal “protection score”. Performance should be stated against a defined scenario, building configuration and set of assumptions.