Les murs peints de Marcoule 

Résumé 0

The Radiation Protection Service (Service de Protection contre les Radiations, SPR) was created in 1955 in the Marcoule nuclear center, operated by the Atomic Energy Commission (Commissariat à l’Énergie Atomique, CEA). In response to the needs to train workers in a booming industry, the SPR developed an educational program on radioactive risk. Jacques Castan, a draftsman recruited by the SPR in 1957, is responsible for illustrating this program. Among his creations, a mural painting made in the stairwell of the radiation protection building stands out. By depicting the activities of the department, the images contribute to the education of nuclear workers and reassure the viewer that the risks are under control. At the same time as it educates, the painting contributes to the definition and promotion of radiation protection. By translating the imaginary meanings of radiation protectionists, it provides a visual identity for a profession that is becoming institutionalized at the dawn of the nuclear industry.