Emergency Response

To Protect the Public Health and Safety by providing technical advice to first responders and  technical assessments during recovery operations to minimize radiation exposures to the public, workers and reduce economic loss.

Radiation Incidents and Emergencies

The Office of Radiological Health maintains a duty officer who is available 24 hours a day to respond to a radiological emergency.  The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) coordinates the response of all state agencies responding to an emergency.  The VDEM will in turn contact the Radiological Health Duty Officer for assistance regarding radiological emergencies.  Local jurisdictions may ask specifically for assistance from Radiological Health when contacting the VDEM.  Your call will be monitored.

  • Emergency Contact (24/7):
    • Virginia Emergency Operations Center (VEOC):
    • (804) 674-2400
    • In-state toll free 1-800-468-8892
    • Ask for Rad Health Duty Officer

Information on Dominion Energy’s nuclear power station Emergency Preparedness Program, including emergency classifications, what to do if a station emergency is declared, public warning and notification systems, Evacuation Assembly Centers and more may be found by clicking this link: Dominion Energy Nuclear Safety Planning Information

Information on Potassium Iodide (KI), a protective, over-the counter supplement which helps to protect the thyroid gland against internal uptake of radioiodines that may be released in the unlikely event of a nuclear reactor accident, is available on our web page at Potassium Iodide (KI).

Non-emergency Incidents

Incidents involving radiation that are not an emergency but are urgent, such as a radiation monitor alarming at a scrap metal facility or at a landfill, should be reported directly to the Office of Radiological Health during normal business hours.

If the incident involves an organization that holds a Virginia Radioactive Materials License and an immediate notification is required, you may contact us at the number below:

  • Non-emergency contact: (804) 864-8150 or FAX: (804) 864-8155.

Office of Radiological Health | 109 Governor Street,  7th Floor | Richmond, VA  23219

Telephone (804) 864-8150 | Fax: (804) 864-8155