Radioactivity monitoring: Improved software development

To further develop the system of radioactivity monitoring, the BfS counts on so-called open source software. Individual computer programs to exchange radioactivity data are now also made available to third parties under a free licence (GPLv3). The objective is to improve the individual components also in the future and to be able to adapt them to new functions.

Radioactivity monitoring benefits from digital exchange

As a result of the BfS publishing its own developments on the GitHub platform, authorities with similar tasks may benefit from the work of the BfS and avoid parallel developments. At the same time, authorities and other interested parties are invited to further develop the programs. Another benefit is that individual software providers can thus avoid expensive dependencies.

Especially radioactivity monitoring benefits from the digital exchange. Measurement data on radioactivity from continuously running measuring networks at home and abroad and from over 60 laboratories in Germany converge in the Integrated Measuring and Information System (IMIS) of the Federal Office for Radiation Protection. Within a very short period of time, precise forecasts for the dose uptake of man and environment can be made – which is an essential source of information in particular after accidents resulting in a release of radioactivity in the environment.

Modular new development

To be able to adapt this system to new professional and technical requirements also in the future, the BfS counts on a modular new development.

At present, the following components are available: