The existence of radiation, both in the natural environment and as used in many sectors of society, is a fact of life.  Radiation is used safely every day in some capacity in a wide range of industries. These include the nuclear power and military industries, the construction industry, the food industry, the medical field, and academic research. 

Given the potential health hazards associated with accidental or criminal releases of radiation, or historical sites where radioactive materials were handled under federal programs, the Ohio Department of Health’s Radiological Health and Safety Section conducts oversight and coordination with local, state, and federal agencies to help ensure the health and safety of Ohioans.

The Radiological Health and Safety Section (RHSS) has responsibilities in the following areas:

• Helping to educate the public on the potential dangers of radiation as well as common myths regarding its effects and risks.
• Planning for and serving as the lead state agency in responding to radiological incidents of varying scales in Ohio.
• Representing the public health interests of Ohio’s citizens when working with commercial nuclear power plants in Ohio (Davis-Besse Nuclear Power Station, Perry Nuclear Power Plant, and Beaver Valley Power Station) and federal sites undergoing radioactive material cleanup (decommissioning).
• Coordinating with local, state, and federal agencies to conduct environmental monitoring and plan/prepare to respond to potential radiological emergencies.
• Representing the public health interests of Ohio’s citizens when working with federal sites within Ohio operated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

Please explore the RHSS programs and educational materials by clicking on their respective tabs on the left side of this page.

Mailing Address:
Ohio Department of Health
Bureau of Environmental Health and Radiation Protection
Radiological Health and Safety
246 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43215

Phone: (614) 644-2727
Fax: (614) 466-0381
E-Mail: BRadiation@odh.ohio.gov