All unexpected radiological releases affect public health, economic stability, and global security. Los Alamos National Laboratory’s QUIC-DEPDOSE is a software application that calculates individualized radiation doses for people downwind from a radioactive plume by combining two key models: QUIC (for atmospheric dispersion) and DEPDOSE (for respiratory tract deposition and dose calculations). It leverages real topography — from kilometer-scale cityscapes down to micron-scale particles in the respiratory system — accounts for building infiltration, and includes nearly 1,000 radionuclides. QUIC-DEPDOSE also factors in age, sex, activity level, and individual movement (such as jogging or driving) to produce more accurate dose estimates.
A nonexpert can operate QUIC-DEPDOSE in about 30 minutes on a standard laptop, making it well suited for rapid decision-making at an emergency site. It helps determine who should evacuate or shelter, which evacuation routes are feasible, who may need immediate medical attention, and how long responders can safely work in the affected area. QUIC-DEPDOSE is designed for policymakers, emergency planners, and responders to effectively plan for and respond to radiological incidents.
