Should we fear the effects of low doses of ionising radiation? Radiation protection standards are soon to be raised: is this justified by recent scientific progress? Mr Claude Birraux, deputy for Haute Savoie, presents the issues of a difficult but fascinating debate. He also points out some of its shortcomings and recalls that a solely scientific approach avoids the real issues. How are radioactive wastes to be managed in a rigorous manner, including those whose activity is very low? Do we know how satisfactorily to control the hazards of mining tailings, even in the very long term? A year’s investigations, interviews and visits have shown that solutions that may be satisfactory from the technical standpoint must also take into account their social context if they are to be fully acceptable.