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Conference Spotlight
Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
September 8–11, 2025
Atlanta, GA|Atlanta Marriott Marquis
Standards Program
The Standards Committee is responsible for the development and maintenance of voluntary consensus standards that address the design, analysis, and operation of components, systems, and facilities related to the application of nuclear science and technology. Find out What’s New, check out the Standards Store, or Get Involved today!
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
September 2025
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August 2025
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The RAIN scale: A good intention that falls short
Radiation protection specialists agree that clear communication of radiation risks remains a vexing challenge that cannot be solved solely by finding new ways to convey technical information.
Earlier this year, an article in Nuclear News described a new radiation risk communication tool, known as the Radiation Index, or, RAIN (“Let it RAIN: A new approach to radiation communication,” NN, Jan. 2025, p. 36). The authors of the article created the RAIN scale to improve radiation risk communication to the general public who are not well-versed in important aspects of radiation exposures, including radiation dose quantities, units, and values; associated health consequences; and the benefits derived from radiation exposures.
During ANS Teacher Workshops, educators interact with nuclear professionals to explore basic concepts, learn about experiments and demonstrations suitable for the middle school and high school classroom, and experience hands-on activities to share with their students.
The ANS teacher workshops are possible as a result of the tremendous support from ANS members who volunteer their time and expertise. Workshops are hosted by the Center for Nuclear Science and Technology Information.
ANS's e-newsletter for educators, ReActions, provides subscribers with articles on nuclear science, suggestions for classroom activities, and information about upcoming events. If you are interested in receiving ReActions at no charge,please sign up here.
ANS also publishes classroom resources and activities that explain, in grade-appropriate language, the many uses of the atom and the vital role of nuclear technology.
For students, ANS offers broad perspective on the many careers related to nuclear science. The Society provides scholarship opportunities to students studying for careers in the field. Also offered is the Ask an Expert section. If you have a nuclear technology related question, just submit it to ANS. One of the experts will respond with an answer.
Your generous donation will support our professional trainings and other nuclear education services. Thank you for your contribution. Donate Now.
Last modified February 12, 2019, 3:28pm CST
