Objective To understand the level of nuclear radiation knowledge and attitude towards nuclear power plant construction among health emergency personnel around a nuclear facility, to enhance public awareness and education targeted at these individuals, to increase confidence in the safety of nuclear power plants, and to aid health emergency response work. Methods In September 2022, following the survey plan developed by National Institute for Radiological Protection, China CDC, a survey was conducted using a questionnaire designed by the institute. The survey was conducted by filling online questionnaire by 238 individuals engaged in health emergency gathered at their working units, including designated centers for disease control, hospitals, and township health clinics at the municipal, county, and township levels. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS 22.0 statistical software. The categorical data were statistically described by proportion and subjected to chi-square test. The continuous data were described by \begin{document}$\bar{x} \pm s$\end{document} and subjected to correlation analysis using multiple linear regression. Results A total of 225 valid questionnaires were collected. The scores were relatively high for professional and technical personnel of radiation health protection agencies, personnel with postgraduate degrees, and male personnel, and their scores were 10.83 ± 2.13, 12.4 ± 1.67, and 10.48 ± 2.8, respectively. Sex and education were the factors influencing the level of radiation knowledge (P < 0.05). Most of the respondents were very concerned and worried about the safety of nuclear power plants, supported the construction of nuclear power plants by the state but took a neutral attitude towards the construction of nuclear facilities in the local area, and showed high level of trust in the government and the authoritative media. Conclusion According to the characteristics of the health emergency personnel, different publicity and education methods and activities should be used to enhance understanding of radiation knowledge. The authoritative role of the government and the media should be emphasized to build confidence in the safety of nuclear power plants.