The technical guidance provided in these guidelines aims to support public health preparedness for radiation emergencies in Member States, as required by the International Health Regulations (IHR). It is confined to planning and implementation of ITB before and during a radiation emergency. These guidelines do not address the radiation protection basis set for ITB planning and implementation, but rather complements the relevant international safety standards and technical guides published by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and co-sponsored by WHO and other international organizations. The primary audience for these guidelines is health authorities and public health professionals responsible for, or otherwise involved in, planning and responding to radiation emergencies. It is also relevant for all other specialists involved in planning and responding to radiation emergencies.