Radiation Safety User Manual

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Table of Contents

1. Radiation Safety Program: Purpose, Scope, and Responsibilities
2. Regulations and Guidelines
3. Ionizing Radiation and Safety Principles
4. Types of Users and Training Plans
5. Approval of Research Projects
6. Guidance for Application
7. Appendix A: Additional Guidance and Best Practices for Open-Source Radioactive Material Users
8. Appendix B: Additional Guidance and Best Practices for Sealed Source Radioactive Material Users
9. Appendix C: Safe Usage and Managing Spills
10. Appendix D: Accidents, Incidents and Emergencies
11. Appendix E: Declaration of Pregnancy Letter

Radiation Safety Program: Purpose, Scope, and Responsibilities

Purpose

The purpose of this radiation safety manual is to define policies and procedures pertaining to the use of radiological materials and devices in research at Montana State University (MSU). These policies and procedures are designed to safeguard personnel and the environment from radiological hazards without limiting research.

The work practices, procedures, and policies specified in this manual are based on regulatory requirements and accepted radiation safety practices. Implementation of these measures will reduce the likelihood that an incident involving radiological hazards will occur and will fulfill regulatory radiation safety requirements.

Laboratory work can involve potential exposure to radiological hazards, as well as to chemical and biological hazards. Consequently, this manual should be used in conjunction with the MSU Chemical

Safety Manual and Biological Safety Manual.

For information about specific radiological safety for operations not covered in this manual, contact the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) at 406-994-7317.

Scope

MSU holds a broad scope type A license which is a specific license authorizing receipt, acquisition, ownership, possession, use, and transfer of any chemical or physical form of the byproduct material specified in the license, but not exceeding quantities specified in the license, for purposes authorized by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

This manual applies to all MSU research activities involving radiological materials or devices. All faculty, staff, students, and visitors who work on MSU sponsored projects or at MSU facilities are included in the scope of this manual.

Radiological hazards include all materials or devices capable of producing ionizing radiation. This includes, but is not limited to, open-source radioactive materials, sealed source radioactive materials, nuclear gauges and x-ray producing devices. For x-ray producing devices refer to the x-ray safety manual.

Radiological Safety Program Goals

The Radiation Safety Program is designed to provide guidance on the safe handling of ionizing radiation, minimization of risks of research use, keeping exposure to personnel As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA), and maintaining compliance with all regulations pertaining to radiological hazards.

The mission of the Radiation Safety Program at MSU is to ensure a safe environment for individuals working with ionizing radiation and to ensure the protection of the community and environment by keeping exposure to radiation ALARA. To accomplish this, the Radiation Safety Program provides technical advice to Principal Investigators (PIs) on laboratory containment, security, and safety procedures. Other aspects of the Radiation Safety Program include developing emergency response plans for handling spills and personnel containment, overseeing laboratory inspections to ensure safe laboratory standards are maintained, oversite of waste management, and providing radiation safety training.

Roles and Responsibilities

Success of the Radiation Safety Program requires a team effort involving the Radiation Safety Committee (RSC), PIs, laboratory workers, the Occupational Health Program (OHP), and Safety and Risk Management (SRM). PIs are responsible for the health and safety of personnel who work under their supervision and occupy their laboratory space. MSU administration and the RSC endorses this manual and encourages active participation in maintaining high standards at MSU.

Organizational Chart for the Administration of NRC License #25-00326-06

Director of Research Compliance (Management Representative)

The Management Representative has overall responsibility for:

• Oversight for the control of ionizing radiation in research laboratories and for ensuring that a comprehensive Radiation Safety Program is in place for the safe handling of all radioactive materials.
• Direct functional responsibility for the RSC and Radiation Safety Program.
• Develops and ensures communication between the RSC and other research related committees.
• In consultation with RSC, appoints committee members to the RSC.

Radiation Safety Committee (RSC)

The RSC is responsible for reviewing and approving practices and protocols involving the use of ionizing radiation in all research activities at MSU. The RSC carries out these functions pursuant to requirements set forth by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the State of Montana, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

The RSC’s responsibilities include:

• Overall oversight of the Radiation Safety Program at MSU, including development of new, and review of existing, policies and procedures designed to enhance the Radiation Safety Program.
• Reviews and approves training programs.
• Coordinates the radiological safety requirements with other campus‐wide committees (e.g. Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee IACUC) or programs (e.g., Occupational Health Program).
• Reviews and approves new research protocols involving ionizing radiation in accordance with guidelines established by regulatory agencies and MSU as well as maintains protocol approval and review of modifications.
• Investigates violations of Radiation Safety procedures or policies and significant accidents or exposures involving radiological materials or devices.
• If appropriate, recommends disciplinary action to the proper MSU officials.

Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)

The RSO is responsible for developing, leading, directing, and managing a comprehensive Radiation Safety program for MSU. The Radiation Safety program must meet NRC, OSHA, any other granting agency, Federal, State, and local requirements. The program includes close cooperation and interaction with committees approving research protocols and procedures for use of animal subjects with IACUC and biohazards with the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC). The RSO will provide guidance and consultation to assess the risk of working with ionizing radiation. The RSO interacts with the research, teaching, and diagnostic community to inform and ensure compliance with State and Federal reporting or audit requirements, and to inspect and correct deficiencies when noted.

The RSO duties include:

• The inspection of the physical facilities and equipment for compliance with general regulatory guidelines for research and diagnostic work using radioactive materials in accordance with developed laboratory inspection checklists.
• Review of laboratory radiation safety manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for compliance with regulatory guidelines.
• Provides general guidance about health, safety, standards, and provides the Radiation Safety review for all research proposals presented to the RSC.
• Helps to ensure that radioactive wastes are properly handled, transported, and disposed of outside of laboratory facilities and after leaving the laboratory buildings per applicable state and federal regulations.
• Maintains a list of approved radiation safety laboratories with inspection dates and results.
• Responsible for assisting the PI to develop appropriate lab‐specific radiation safety manuals for all activities using radioactive materials.
• The RSO regularly reports on the radiation safety program to the RSC. The RSO’s report should include routine operational updates and any significant problems or violations of the regulatory mandates or RSC requirements on any research‐related incidents that have occurred.
• Manage a personnel monitoring program for personnel expected to receive 10% of their annual exposure limits
• Manage an exposure and contamination survey program in accordance with NRC regulations management
• Maintain a sealed source inventory and conduct sealed source leak tests
• Provide training to all MSU personnel
• Conduct instrument calibrations
• Ensure that security and other regulatory requirements are met
• Perform license communications with the NRC

Principal Investigators (PI)

Principal investigators are responsible for the health and safety of all personnel and compliance with all applicable regulations and the criteria established in this manual in their laboratories.

The PI’s responsibilities include:

• Notifies the RSC and obtains prior RSC approval for work involving radioactive material and conforms to all terms and conditions of RSC approval. Ensures that all laboratory personnel are adequately trained in the practices and techniques required to ensure safety and the procedures for dealing with accidents.
• Ensures that individuals working in the facility are experienced and proficient in handling radiological materials or devices.
• Makes available to all laboratory personnel the protocols that describe the hazards and the precautions to be taken.
• Ensures that the required safety practices, techniques, engineering controls, and PPE are provided and employed.
• Ensures that laboratory hazards are effectively communicated to laboratory personnel and controls are in place to minimize risks associated with these hazards.
• Notifies the RSO of any spills or incidents involving radiological materials or devices that result in exposure to laboratory personnel or the public, or release to the environment.
• Ensures that radiological materials are disposed of according to regulations, as outlined in this manual.
• Ensures that radiological materials to be transported are packaged and shipped in accordance with regulations and per this manual.

Authorized Users (AUs)

 Authorized Users are the most important element in developing and maintaining a safe laboratory environment. Laboratory workers are responsible for their own health and safety, as well as that of their coworkers. An incident caused by one laboratory worker can have a widespread effect on others.

Laboratory workers are expected to:

• Participate in and complete all required training to ensure that they are adequately trained.
• Fully understand the radiological materials or devices and procedures used in the laboratory and the risks associated with exposure.
• Follow all laboratory protocols and comply with all applicable policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Inform the PI and RSO of any potential problems with the operating procedures or equipment which may result in the creation of a potential hazard.
• Complete any necessary medical surveillance.
• Report thefts, security incidents, accidents, spills, or contamination incidents to PI and RSO.

Occupational Health Program

 The Occupational Health Program (OHP) is primarily responsible for establishing and performing appropriate medical surveillance for all personnel performing research or supporting research such as animal care workers, facilities, Police and Public Safety. Surveillance may be required at the time of hire or transfer into the research environment and periodically depending on the work environment, occupational exposure and risk for each position or job category. OHP is responsible for reporting all radiological exposure incidents to the appropriate personnel.  In addition to performing medical surveillance, OHP is also responsible for:

• Coordinates with Montana Occupational Health to provide medical evaluations and surveillance program for personnel working in the facility.
• Files Workman’s Compensation reports.

Regulations and Guidelines

The following is a summary of federal, state, local agency and MSU regulations and guidelines that either regulate or provide guidelines covering the use of ionizing radiation:

• NRC regulations on the use of nuclear materials are listed under Title 10 of the code of Federal regulations. These are binding regulations to our nuclear materials license issued by the NRC. http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/cfr/
• NRC NUREG-1556 provides consolidated guidance about materials licenses including program-specific guidance for MSU’s broad scope license. Where appropriate, this series of documents has been used to establish guidelines for MSU’s radiation safety program. http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/nuregs/staff/sr1556/
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration has established standards for employees under the title of Ionizing radiation. These regulation covers occupational exposure to ionizing radiation. OSHA specifies a combination of engineering controls, work practices, and training to reduce the risks from ionizing radiation.

https://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=10098

• S. Department of Transportation and the International Air Transportation Authority: These organizations have strict requirements governing the shipment and transportation of hazardous materials, including radiological materials. Chapter 11 provides information on shipping regulations. http://www.ecfr.gov/cgi-bin/text-idx?SID=1d49a3b137cb1b6fc45251074e634b44&tpl=/ecfrbrowse/Title49/49tab_02.tpl
• The MSU Radiation Safety Committee has documented policies and procedures into this document as requirements and/or have included these as appendices to this document.

Ionizing Radiation and Safety Principles

Sources of Ionizing Radiation

We are exposed to ionizing radiation constantly, also known as background radiation. The sources of our background radiation exposure ranges from photons from the sun to radon in our homes. In the research and teaching environment here at MSU additional sources can be found. Examples of these sources are:

• Open-source radiochemicals (Examples: liquids containing 3H, solids containing 14C)
• Sealed sources (Examples: 63Ni ECD devices, nuclear density gauges and Mossbauer sources)
• Uranium, Thorium and Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM)
• X-ray imaging and cabinet X-ray devices
• X-ray diffraction and fluorescence machines
• Electron microscopes

Types of Radiation

Ionizing radiation is considered to be any emission with enough energy to ionize an atom or molecule. The types of emissions that are capable of this are:

• Alpha
• Beta
• X-ray
• Gamma
• Neutron

Units of Radioactivity

Radioactivity: A unit that measures the number of emissions capable of ionization materials per unit time. Radioactivity can be measure in Curies (Ci) or Becquerel (Bq).

Dose or Exposure: A measure of the health effects to the human body from ionizing radiation. Dose or Exposure can be measured in Roentgen Equivalent Man (Rem) or Sievert (Sv).

Dose or Exposure Rate: A measure of the rate in which health effects from ionizing radiation are being accumulated at a particular location. Dose or Exposure rates can be measured in Rem/hr or Sv/hr.

Protection from Ionizing Radiation

The Radiation Safety Program is designed to keep dose or exposure to personnel As Low As Reasonably Achievable. The principles of radiation safety protection are:

• Time – Minimizing time in a radiation field
• Distance – Maximizing the distance from a source of ionizing radiation
• Shielding – Use or appropriate shielding to minimize exposure rates at a location

Types of Users and Training Plans

Types of Users

Montana State University’s (MSU’s) Office of Research Compliance (ORC), specifically through the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO), is responsible for ensuring that radiation safety training is provided to all MSU employees who work with radioactive materials (RAM) or equipment containing sealed sources. Training must be completed prior to beginning work with radioactive materials or equipment containing sealed sources. Instructions on the hazards present will be provided to employees whose duties require them to work in the same room but do not directly work with RAM. Required instructions and/or training is dependent on the job functions performed and falls into the following categories:

• Radioactive Material Laboratory Workers – Those working directly with byproduct materials authorized by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (e. P-32, C-14, H-3).
• Ni-63 Electron Capture Device (ECD) Users – Those working only with Ni-63 Electron Capture Devices.
• Uranium, Thorium and NORM Users – Those working with Uranium and Thorium compounds and/or naturally occurring radioactive materials (e. Uranyl Acetate, Uranium ore).
• Xray Generating Machine Users – Those working with x-ray generating machines (e. x-ray imaging, x-ray diffraction, electron microscopes)
• Ancillary RAM Workers – Those working in the vicinity of, but not directly with, radioactive materials and/or x-ray generating machines (e. non-AUs in the lab, facilities personnel).

Training Plans

Trainings will include general radiation safety, MSU-specific standard operating procedures, and regulatory-required content based on the job function. Additional educational topics identified by the specific department in which you work or after consultation with the RSO may be covered in the training as well. All successful training completions shall be documented and retained by the ORC prior to starting any work with radioactive materials or machines producing radiation. Failure to do so will be considered a violation of MSU’s radiation safety policy.

Radioactive Material Laboratory Workers

Required training: Radioactive Materials Orientation, Lab-Specific Training

Additional training components as needed: HAZMAT – Packaging, Shipping and Transportation, Nuclear Gauges

Retraining frequency: Radioactive Materials Training is taken on an approximately annual basis for all AUs on an active protocol starting one year after completion of Radioactive Materials Orientation. Lab Specific Training is retaken whenever changes in procedures occurs. In the event that an AU becomes inactive, defined as not being on an active protocol, then Lab Specific Training and Radioactive Materials Training are both required before becoming active again on a usage protocol.

Ni-63 ECD Users

Required training: Ni-63 ECD User Training

Retraining frequency: None

Uranium, Thorium and NORM Users

Required training: Ni-63 ECD User Training

Retraining frequency: None

X-ray Generating Machine Users

Required training: X-ray Generating User Training, Non-interlocked systems require additional lab specific training.

Retraining frequency: None

Ancillary RAM Workers

Required instructions: Lab hazard signage, proper labeling of radiation hazards

Frequency: Continuous

How to Get Training

 All training courses may be requested to occur in person by contacting the RSO. Online training courses and instructions for accessing them are listed on the training page of the ORC website: http://www.montana.edu/orc/radiation/training.html

Course Descriptions and Content

Radioactive Materials Orientation Course

Initial training for RAM laboratory workers and PI’s supervising work with radioactive materials is covered in the Radioactive Materials Orientation course, which is offered by request. This training course includes hands on training and is presented by Radiation Safety.

Training Content:

• Applicable regulations
• Atomic structure
• Alpha, beta, and gamma radiation
• Radioactivity units
• Radioactive decay
• Background radiation
• Biological effects of ionizing radiation
• Steps to minimize exposure (ALARA)
• Radiation protection principles
• Radiation surveys
• Radiation inventory
• Recordkeeping
• Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Waste disposal
• Policy on transporting radioactive material
• Occupational dose limits and proper use of dosimetry
• Policy on radiation and pregnancy
• Purchase, receipt, and storage of radioactive material
• Radiation instrumentation
• Spill and decontamination procedures (non-emergency)
• Emergency response
• Radiation safety program policies and procedures

Lab-Specific Training Course

This unique training is specific to the authorized procedures within the laboratory. At a minimum it must cover the contents of the RSC approved protocol. The PI, or delegate of the PI, provides this training to users prior to their approval as an authorized user.

Training Content:

• Safety procedures specific to the laboratory

Radioactive Materials Training Course

This course is continuing training for RAM laboratory workers taken, approximately, on an annual basis. This training can be taken online, or in person upon request. An in-service presentation will have the same general material presented as in the online course but streamlined to fit the needs of the group, where more hands-on practice time with survey meters and calculating efficiencies of liquid scintillation counters and dpm can be addressed in greater detail.

Training Content:

• Same topics as covered in the Radioactive Materials Orientation course

Ni-63 ECD User Training Course

This course is specifically for users of Ni-63 ECD devices. This one-time training is taken online.  

Training Content:

• Same topics as covered in the Radioactive Materials Orientation course

Uranium, Thorium and NORM Training Course

This course is for users of Uranium and Thorium compounds (i.e. Uranyl Acetate) and/or naturally occurring radioactive materials. This training is taken online and valid for three years.  

Training Content:

• Radiation hazard
• Chemical hazard
• Radiation safety program policies and procedures
• Authorization
• Inventory
• Contamination control
• Laboratory decommissioning
• Waste requirements

Xray Generating Machines Training Course

This course is for users of x-ray generating machines. This one-time training is taken online. 

Training Content:

• Radiation hazard
• Hazard prevention
• Regulations
• Radiation safety program policies and procedures

Approval of Research Projects

Who Needs Approval

The RSC reviews and approves all activities in which ionizing radiation is produced. Activities that are capable of producing ionizing radiation include, but not limited to, the categories below:

• Use of open-source radioactive materials such as 3H, 32P and 14C
• Use of sealed radioactive sources such as 63Ni, 57Co and nuclear density gauges
• Use of Uranium, Thorium or other naturally occurring radioactive materials
• Use of devices that are capable of producing X-rays such as X-ray diffraction units, X-ray imaging units and electron microscopes

Principles which Govern the RSC

The RSC operates upon the following regulations/guidelines:

• 10 CFR NRC Regulations for use of nuclear materials
• 49 CFR DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations
• Montana Code Title 50 Chapter 79: Nuclear Regulation
• Montana State University Radiation Program Guidelines

The planning and implementation of safety protocols to prevent workplace exposure to ionizing radiation and to eliminate the spread of contamination must be part of every laboratory’s routine activities and radiation safety manual. No work should be considered so important that it jeopardizes the well‐being of the worker or the environment. The handling of radiological agents and devices capable of producing ionizing radiation requires the use of precautionary measures dependent on the agents involved and the procedures performed. It is the purpose of this manual to provide background information and guidelines to be used in conjunction with other resources for the evaluation, containment, and control of radiological hazardous materials and ionizing radiation at MSU.

RSC Protocol

A PI applying for RSC approval for research, teaching, or diagnostic activities needs to submit a completed RSC protocol. In order for the application to be processed, it must be signed (electronically accepted) by the PI and any supplemental materials must be included. The PI is responsible for ensuring that all users are trained on the specifics of the protocol prior to working with ionizing radiation. The RSO will act as a resource to assist the PI in developing a radiation safety protocol and performing a facility review.

Amendments

All Amendments to currently approved protocols are required be reviewed and approved by the RSC prior to implementation. Minor changes that do not increase the risk to workers, the community, and/or the environment may be processed as an administrative approval performed by the RSC Chair and/or RSO. Examples of significant modifications may include; the addition of potentially radiological hazardous materials, and the addition of materials or procedures that may increase the risks of the research. Administrative modifications may be approved by the RSC Chair or the RSO. Examples of administrative modifications may include the addition/removal of personnel, and removal of isotopes and locations. The RSC modification approval is valid until the expiration of the protocol, or when further modifications are made.

Interim Review

On an approximately annual basis an Interim Review of active protocols occurs. This gives the PI an opportunity to verify the status of their protocol and make any changes needed at that time. PIs are also asked if there have been any radiation safety incidents or concerns for radiation safety since the last interim review. Unless there are significant modifications to the protocol, these are administratively reviewed and approved by the RSO after verification of AU training records.

Renewal 

A protocol Renewal serves as a mechanism for the RSC to re-review the approval of past protocols and occurs every three years. Similar to an Interim Review, a Renewal gives the PI an opportunity to verify the status of their protocol and make any changes needed at that time. Unlike Interim Reviews, Renewals are fully reviewed by the RSC as would any new protocol submission.

Notification

PIs are responsible for notifying the RSC of any needed changes to their protocol through the amendment process. PIs and key associates will be notified through email when an interim review of their protocol is required 15 business days in advance of the due date. PIs and key associates will be notified through email when a renewal of their protocol is required 30 business days in advance of the due date.

Reports of Unexpected Adverse Events

All unanticipated/adverse events should be reported to the RSO and RSC chair in writing as well as any

actions taken on the part of the researcher as a response to the adverse event. NRC regulations have established reporting requirements depending on the incident (http://www.nrc.gov/about-nrc/emerg-preparedness/faq/reporting-requirements.html).

Guidance for Application

TOPAZ

The RSC reviews and approves all activities in which ionizing radiation is produced through a protocol management software called TOPAZ. Three unique protocol forms are available to applicants:

• Radioactive Materials
• U, Th and Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials
• X-ray generating machines

General Protocol Sections and Guidance

 All three protocol forms have the following sections:

Protocol Information

The PI that is responsible for all aspects of the research request is identified here along with the associated department and descriptive title for the work. Any other associated protocols (i.e. Biosafety, Animals, Other RSC protocols) are identified in this section as well.

Funding Information

The funding associated with the research is identified here.

Personnel

All AUs and the PI are listed here. Any required lab specific training dates are also listed here. Other required trainings are documented and verified through each users associated competencies.

Principal Investigator Statement

The PI acknowledges that they are responsible for all aspects of the research protocol. This responsibility includes all those authorized under the protocol. Responsibilities include safe usage, proper disposal, our commitment to ALARA, and overall compliance with the rules and regulations governing the use of ionizing radiation at MSU, State and Federal levels. This responsibility also includes the performance of only activities authorized under the protocol, and only by those approved to be listed on the protocol. The PI also acknowledges that any changes to the protocol are required to be approved prior to implementation.

Radioactive Materials Protocol Sections and Guidance

Radioactive Material Information - General

General information is collected about the materials to be used:

• Sealed vs. open-source materials
• General objectives for usage
• Isotopes and quantities
• Locations of use and laboratory layouts for survey form development
• Methods for securing radioactive materials
• Dosimetry Badges Requirements – This section is answered by the RSO/RSC during the approval process after evaluation of the risk associated with usage and in consideration of regulatory requirements.
• Restricted Area Designation - This section is answered by the RSO/RSC during the approval process after evaluation of the risk associated with usage and in consideration of regulatory requirements.
• Experimental Steps ­– This section outlines each experimental step, the existing hazards during that step, and the measures taken to mitigate those hazards in each step.
• Radiation Detection Equipment – Any required or used equipment is identified here such as analytical equipment, survey meters, and/or liquid scintillation counters.

 Radioactive Material Information – Sealed Sources

 The cost of disposal at the end of life is identified here.

Radioactive Material Information – Open-Sources

 Open-source use has the following additional subsections:

• Waste Streams – Solids, liquids, LSC, sharps, animals, half-life
• Procedures for Ordering Receiving and Inventorying
• Usage and Waste Tracking
• Labeling, Day of Use Contamination and Decommissioning Surveys
• Forms – Identifies chemical, liquid and/or solids forms
• Maximum Order Activity, Experimental Activity and Possession Limits
• Minor Spill/Contamination Threshold - This section is answered by the RSO/RSC during the approval process after evaluation of the risk associated with usage and in consideration of regulatory requirements.
• Radiotoxicity Hazard Group
• Presence of Volatile and/or Airborne Radioactive Materials
• Presence of Mixed Waste - If the applicant knowingly suspects that any of their waste streams contain a chemical hazard (i.e. ignitable, corrosive, reactive or toxic) or biological hazard they must request an analysis of their waste stream prior to the introduction of radioactive materials. The generation of mixed waste is not allowed until a disposal path has been identified.

U, Th and Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials Protocol Sections and Guidance

The following additional information is collected in this protocol:

• Locations of use and laboratory layouts for survey form development
• Procedures for ordering receiving
• Inventory procedures
• Waste tracking procedures
• Survey frequency
• RSO notification of possible contamination events
• General objectives of use
• Solid and liquid forms
• Possession limits
• Frequency of use
• Maximum experimental activity
• Minor spill/contamination threshold - This section is answered by the RSO/RSC during the approval process after evaluation of the risk associated with usage and in consideration of regulatory requirements.
• Experimental Steps ­– This section outlines each experimental step, the existing hazards during that step and the measures taken to mitigate those hazards in each step.
• Presence of Volatile and/or Airborne Radioactive Materials
• Waste types
• Radiation Detection Equipment – Any required or used equipment is identified here such as analytical equipment, survey meters and/or liquid scintillation counters.

X-ray Generating Machines

The following additional information is collected in this protocol:

• Xray Machine Type – Diffraction, Electron Microscope, Imaging or Other
• Locations of use and laboratory layouts for survey form development
• Manufacturer, model, serial number
• Fixed or mobile
• Max kV peak, mA, Tubes
• Interlock, operational indicators and labeling
• Experimental Steps ­– If required, this section outlines each experimental step, the existing hazards during that step and the measures taken to mitigate those hazards in each step.
• Security of x-ray machine.

Appendix A: Additional Guidance and Best Practices for Open-Source Radioactive Material Users

Open-Source RAM

Open-source radioactive materials encompass all radioactive materials that are not encased in a capsule designed to prevent leakage or escape of radioactive material.

Laboratory Radiation Safety Practices

 General Guidelines

• Wear a laboratory coat or other protective clothing at all times in areas where licensed materials are used.
• Wear disposable gloves at all times when handling licensed materials.
• After each procedure or before leaving the area, monitor hands, shoes, and clothing for contamination in a low-background area.
• Do not eat, drink, smoke, or apply cosmetics in any area where licensed material is stored or used.
• Do not store food, drink, cell phones, or personal effects in areas where licensed material is stored or used.
• Wear personnel monitoring devices, if required, at all times while in areas where licensed materials are used or stored.
• Dispose of radioactive waste only in designated, labeled, and properly shielded receptacles.
• Never pipette by mouth.
• Store radioactive solutions in clearly labeled containers.
• Safely handle sealed sources.
• Secure all licensed material when it is not under the constant surveillance and immediate control of the user(s).
• Shielding materials must be available for specific isotopes used in the lab. Use lead shielding for gamma emitters; Plexiglass for high energy beta emitters.
• All unstable and/or volatile radioactive materials must be used in chemical fume hoods.
• Follow any additional safety precautions provided by the radioisotope manufacturer or vendor. Maintain a copy of any package inserts.
• All countertops where radioactive materials are used must be clearly defined and labeled with the radiation symbol.
• All hoods in which radioactive materials are used must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol.
• All sinks in which radioactive material is introduced by cleaning of contaminated lab ware must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol.
• Any equipment in which radioactive material is used must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol (Centrifuges, incubators, etc.).
• Radioactive material users will familiarize themselves with the experimental protocols, special precautions, and any required equipment prior to performing the procedure.
• Before attempting an experiment for the first time, Authorized Users (AUs) should perform a 'dry run', using water or saline instead of the radioisotope soluti
• Work only in designated ar
• Immediately report any unsafe situation to the Principal Investigator, and to the Radiation Safety Officer.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Wear a laboratory coat or other protective clothing, disposable gloves, close-toed shoes and eye protection at all times when using radioactive materials.
• PPE such as lab coats and gloves should not be worn outside the laboratory.

Contamination Control

• All work bench areas must be covered with absorbent paper. Absorbent paper must be checked for contamination after each use.
• Whenever possible, work with radioactive solutions or storage of liquid radioactive solutions should be confined to a tray or vessel capable of containing the entire volume of the radioactive material being used.
• Before beginning an experiment, assemble all materials, reagents and equipment necessary to perform the experim
• Monitor hands, shoes, and clothing for contamination after each procedure or before leaving the area.
• Perform contamination and radiation surveys as direct Record the results on the Inventory and Tracking Sheet.
• Do not eat, drink, smoke, apply cosmetics or change contact lenses in any area where radioactive material is stored or used.
• Do not store food, drink, or personal effects in areas where radioactive material is stored or used.
• Never pipette by mouth.
• Dispose of radioactive waste only in designated, approved, labeled and properly shielded receptacles.

Exposure Control

• Shielding materials must be available for specific isotopes used in the lab. Use lead shielding for gamma emitters; Plexiglass for high energy beta emitters.
• Radioactive materials must be adequately shielded on all sides to maintain exposures at less than 2 mR/hr at 30 cm from the source.
• If applicable, wear film badges at all times while in areas where radioactive materials are used or stor Badges should be worn at chest or waist level. When film badges are not being worn to monitor occupational exposure, they should be stored in a designated low background area.
• All unstable and/or volatile radioactive materials must be used in chemical fume hoods.
• Follow any additional safety precautions provided by the radioisotope manufacturer or vendor. Maintain a copy of any package inserts.

Labeling

• All countertops where radioactive materials are used must be clearly defined and labeled with the radiation symbol.
• All hoods in which radioactive materials are used must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol.
• All sinks in which radioactive material is introduced by cleaning of contaminated lab ware must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol.
• Any equipment in which radioactive material is used must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol (Centrifuges, incubators, etc.).

Wipe Tests and Geiger Surveys

Geiger Survey

Geiger counters (GM) are portable instruments used to detect ionizing radiation and can also be used to survey areas for ambient radiation dose rates (“area surveys”), providing the correct detector is used.

The Geiger counter is the least expensive, fastest and generally the most reliable means of detecting and measuring radioactive contamination. The beta pancake detector is used with the Geiger counter for finding and measuring beta radiation and will detect all beta radioisotopes used at MSU except H-3 and Ni-63. It does not detect those nuclides because their betas are too low in energy to penetrate the window of the detector. Radioisotopes which may be detected with the beta pancake are C-14, S-35, P-33, P-32 and most other beta emitting nuclides.

The low energy gamma probe is used with the Geiger counter to detect and measure gamma radioisotopes of various energies. It is most efficient for I-125, but will perform adequately for Cr-51, Co-57 and other gamma emitting nuclides. These detectors will also detect low energy x-rays, such as those emitted by beta emitters producing Bremsstrahlung radiation.

Wipe Tests

Wipe tests are performed to detect and quantify radioactive contamination on surfaces of work areas and/or equipment. Removable contamination can be detected and measured through a wipe test of the surface, which is counted in an appropriate counting instrument, such as a liquid scintillation counter, a sodium iodide or germanium gamma counter. For low energy beta emitters such as H-3 and Ni-63, this is the appropriate method for contamination surveys.

When to Perform

Dose-rate surveys, at a minimum, must be performed in locations where workers are exposed to radiation levels that might result in radiation doses in excess of 2 mrem/hr. Contamination surveys must be performed:

• To evaluate radioactive contamination that could be present on surfaces of floors, walls, laboratory furniture, and equipment.
• After any spill or contamination event.
• To evaluate contamination of users and the immediate work area at the end of the day in which radioactive material was used.

How to Perform

An approved and calibrated survey meter must be used when conducting an area or contamination survey. Calibration of survey equipment must be performed annually.

• GM Surveys
  • Check that the meter has been calibrated within the last year
  • Check that the battery is within range
  • Turn the probe to the lowest setting available
  • Dose-rate surveys are performed at a distance of 30 cm from any source or surface
  • Contamination surveys are performed at a distance of 1 cm from a surface and moving with a speed of 4-5 cm/s.
• Wipe Tests
  • With an absorbent material, such as a piece of clean filter paper, wipe an area to be tested.
  • Analyze the wipe in an appropriate counting instrument
  • Convert results to dpm above background using the appropriate efficiency for the counter

Action Levels

• GM Surveys
  • Dose Rate Survey – Any measurements above 2 mR/hr at 30 cm from a source/surface or at 1 cm from skin/clothing.
  • Contamination Survey - Any measurements above twice background should be cleaned and re-evaluated. If measurements are not reduced to background after cleaning, then a wipe test of the area should be performed to quantify the removable contamination present. At this time also notify the RSO.
• Wipe Tests
  • Any contamination found shall be cleaned to twice background levels when possible
  • If it is not possible to get to background levels, notify the RSO
  • The RSO will work with AUs to ensure that contamination levels are below the following values:
    • I-125 – 20 dpm/100cm² of removable contamination
    • All other isotopes – 1000 dpm/100cm² of removable contamination

Security of Radioactive Materials

MSU is responsible for developing and implementing procedures to ensure the security and safe use of all licensed material from the time it arrives at their facility until it is used, transferred. and/or disposed of.

All licensed materials that are stored in controlled or unrestricted areas must be secured from unauthorized access or removal, so that individuals who may not be knowledgeable about radioactive materials cannot be exposed to or contaminated by the material, and individuals cannot take the material. When any licensed materials are in use, they must be under constant surveillance so that the radiation worker can prevent others from becoming contaminated by or exposed to the material, or prevent persons from removing the material from the area.

Examples of acceptable methods for securing material are:

• Constant surveillance of radioactive materials by an AU
• Restricting laboratory access to only AUs
• Using locked containers in which only AUs have access to

Inventory

The inventory of radioactive materials from receipt to disposal is required. Users of open-source radioactive materials are required to document receipt, use, and waste generation on each day these events occurs. The documentation is done through an Inventory and Waste Tracking spreadsheet located within the Brightspace Learning Environment by D2L located at:

https://ecat1.montana.edu/?target=%2Fd2l%2Fhome

Once a protocol for use has been approved by the RSC, authorized users are enrolled in an ongoing course titled Radiation Safety Program. The Inventory and Waste Tracking spreadsheet is located under a group folder with access restricted to AUs under the protocol. Group lockers are located under course resources:

Once in the group locker the excel spreadsheet can be opened. After changes are made, the file needs to be saved to a known location (such as your desktop) and then uploaded back into the group folder. It is important to replace the original sheet with your updated one. Only one file, the most recent one, should ever exist in the folder.

 When an order is received the sheet must be updated with:

• An identifying label from the storage container
• The chemical form of the material
• Solid or liquid form
• AU that received the package
• Delivery date
• Original order activity

On each day usage occurs the sheet must be updated with:

• Usage date
• Authorized user
• Lot/Order number
• Original order activity
• Waste stream distribution
• Activity left in storage after usage
• Contamination Survey Results

Waste

All waste streams must be approved prior to generation by the RSO and RSC. Any generation of a mixed chemical and radioactive waste will be avoided if at all possible due to the large cost of disposal. Radioactive waste is required to be placed in waste containers that are approved by the RSO. Separation of waste is done first by half-life (>120 days, <120 days), forms (solid, liquid, LSV) and in some cases by isotope (H-3/C-14, other isotopes).

Waste from isotopes with a half-life of less than 120 days

Waste from isotopes with half-lives of less than 120 days is placed in a decay in storage program. Waste falling into this category is held for a minimum of 10 half-lives and then disposed of as non-radioactive waste saving thousands of dollars annually in disposal costs. This waste is segregated into three streams – Solid, Liquid and Liquid Scintillation Fluid/Containers. LSC waste can be kept in flats when placed in secondary containment.

Waste from isotopes with a half-life of greater than 120 days

Waste from isotopes with half-lives of greater than 120 days will require disposal via a radioactive waste broker. This is a very costly expense therefore the weight and volume of waste should be kept at a minimum.  This waste stream is segregated into three streams – Solid, Liquid and Liquid Scintillation Fluid/Containers. LSC waste can be kept in flats when placed in secondary containment.

H-3 and C-14 LSC waste

H-3 and C-14 LSC waste is separated from other waste in order to take advantage of a reduced cost of disposal of this particular type of waste stream

Sharps

Sharps with radioactive materials and contamination must be place in biohazard sharps containers and separated by the above guidelines

Animals

Contact the RSO for guidance

Drain Disposal

Drain disposal of radioactive materials is not allowed. Only simple instrument washes are allowed in a sink.

Pick-Up requests

When a waste container is approximately ¾ full a waste pick-up request is made. The request is made online through the following link:

http://www.montana.edu/srm/forms/waste/

Shipping and Receiving

Radiation Safety will receive all packages containing radioactive materials. Each package will be checked for contamination and contents prior to delivery. The RSO must be contacted prior to placing an order and be provided with a tracking number once an order has been placed. If a new account is required to be setup, contact the RSO for assistance with setting it up with the provider.

All packages should be shipped to:

Attn: Nick Childs, RSO

1160 Research Drive

Bozeman, MT 59718

Transportation and Transfers

Any transportation or transfer of radioactive materials must be approved by the RSC prior to being conducted. Transportation by vehicle will require additional HAZMAT training outside of the Open-Source RAM training course. Contact the RSO for guidance on approval and additional training requirements. 

Inspections

Laboratory inspections are conducted three times a year. The inspection cycle consists of a self-inspection, an announced inspection and an unannounced inspection. Inspection criteria is available upon request.

Accidents, Incidents and Emergencies

Please reference the appendix on accidents, incidents and emergencies 

Spills

Please reference the appendix on managing spills

Appendix B: Additional Guidance and Best Practices for Sealed Source Radioactive Material Users

Sealed Source RAM

Sealed source means any byproduct material that is encased in a capsule designed to prevent leakage or escape of the byproduct material.

Exposure Control

• Shielding materials must be available for specific isotopes used in the lab. Use lead shielding for gamma emitters; Plexiglass for high energy beta emitters.
• Radioactive materials must be adequately shielded on all sides to maintain exposures at less than 2 mR/hr at 30 cm from the source.
• If applicable, wear film badges at all times while in areas where radioactive materials are used or stor Badges should be worn at chest or waist level. When film badges are not being worn to monitor occupational exposure, they should be stored in a designated low background area.

Labeling

• Any equipment in which radioactive material is used/housed must be clearly labeled with the radiation symbol.

Leak Tests and Geiger Surveys

Geiger Survey

For some gamma emitters (Co-57, Cs-137) a Geiger survey is required upon entry into the laboratory. This to ensure that the sealed source is properly shielded and has not been altered from the normal operating state. Consult the associated approved RAM protocol for the procedural steps.

Leak Tests

For sealed sources with activities of 100 µCi or greater a leak test is required at an interval not to exceed six months. Leak tests are performed and documented by radiation safety

How to Perform

An approved and calibrated survey meter must be used when conducting an area or contamination survey. Calibration of survey equipment must be performed annually.

• GM Surveys
  • Check that the meter has been calibrated within the last year
  • Check that the battery is within range
  • Turn the probe to the lowest setting available
  • Dose-rate surveys are performed at a distance of 30 cm from any source or surface
  • Contamination surveys are performed at a distance of 1 cm from a surface and moving with a speed of 4-5 cm/s.
• Leak Tests
  • With an absorbent material, such as a piece of clean filter paper, wipe an area to be tested.
  • Analyze the wipe in an appropriate counting instrument
  • Convert results to DPM above background using the appropriate efficiency for the counter

Action Levels

• GM Surveys
  • Dose Rate Survey – Any measurements above 2mR/hr at 30 cm from a source.
• Leak Tests
  • Any contamination found shall be investigated by radiation safety and cleaned to background levels when possible
  • If it is not possible to get to background levels the RSO will work with AUs to ensure that contamination levels are below the following values:
    • I-125 – 20 DPM/100cm² of removable contamination
    • All other isotopes – 1000 DPM/100cm² of removable contamination
  • If the amount of removable contamination during a leak test exceeds 0.005 µCi, the source is considered to be leaking and requires reporting to the NRC in a timely manner. Reporting of leaking sealed sources is a responsibility of the RSO.

Security of Radioactive Materials

MSU is responsible for developing and implementing procedures to ensure the security and safe use of all licensed material from the time it arrives at their facility until it is used, transferred. and/or disposed of.

All licensed materials that are stored in controlled or unrestricted areas must be secured from unauthorized access or removal, so that individuals who may not be knowledgeable about radioactive materials cannot be exposed to or contaminated by the material, and individuals cannot take the material. When any licensed materials are in use they must be under constant surveillance so that the radiation worker can prevent others from becoming contaminated by or exposed to the material, or prevent persons from removing the material from the area.

Examples of acceptable methods for securing material are:

• Constant surveillance of radioactive materials by an AU
• Locking a laboratory whenever no AUs are present
• Using locked containers in which only AUs have access to

Inventory

Physical verification of all sealed sources in possession under MSU’s license is conducted every six months by radiation safety.

Missing Radioactive Material

Once a loss of radioactive material has been discovered, it must be immediately reported to the Radiation Safety Office. The Radiation Safety Office will:

• Gather information regarding the disappearance of the radioactive material;
• Initiate steps to locate and recover the material;
• Determine if the loss is required to be reported to the NRC according to regulations, and
• If required, report the loss in the required time frame. 

Waste

The disposal costs of sealed sources must be budgeted prior to approval for use and before being purchased. Depending on the isotope and activity these costs can range from $100 to $250,000 and should be considered when writing proposals for funding and usage.

Shipping and Receiving

Radiation Safety will receive all packages containing radioactive materials. Each package will be checked for contamination and contents prior to delivery. The RSO must be contacted prior to placing an order and be provided with a tracking number once an order has been placed. If a new account is required to be setup, contact the RSO for assistance with setting it up with the provider.

All packages should be shipped to:

Attn: Nick Childs, RSO

1160 Research Drive

Bozeman, MT 59718

Transportation and Transfers

Any transportation or transfer of radioactive materials must be approved by the RSC prior to being conducted. Transportation by vehicle will require additional HAZMAT training outside of the Open Source RAM training course. Contact the RSO for guidance on approval and additional training requirements. 

Inspections

Laboratory inspections are conducted three times a year. The inspection cycle consists of a self-inspection, an announced inspection and an unannounced inspection. Inspection criteria is available upon request.

Accidents, Incidents and Emergencies

Please reference the appendix on accidents, incidents and emergencies

Appendix C: Safe Usage and Managing Spills

The decision to implement a major spill procedure instead of a minor spill procedure depends on many variables specific to the incident, such as the number of individuals affected; other hazards present; the likelihood of spread of contamination; and types of surfaces contaminated as well as the radiotoxicity of the spilled material.

As a general guideline, a spill involving more than 100 µCi of radioactive material or more than one liter of radioactive liquid is a major spill which must be reported immediately to the Radiation Safety Office. The initial responder can determine if the clean-up will require additional radiation safety assistance.

General Safety Procedure to Handle Spills

• Name and telephone number of RSO or an alternate person(s) is located on the laboratory entrance sign. Emergency equipment should be readily available for handling spills.

Spill Classification

• Minor spills are typically considered those that are non-volatile and less than or equal to 10% of the maximum working activity for the associated hazard group. See protocol for established limits.
• Major spills are considered those that are either volatile or greater than 10% of the maximum working activity for the associated hazard group.

Minor Spills (below the authorized limit and non-volatile)

• Instructions to Workers

• • Notify persons in the area that a spill has occurred.
  • Prevent the spread of contamination by covering the spill with absorbent paper. (Paper should be dampened if solids are spilled.)
  • Clean up the spill, wearing disposable gloves and using absorbent paper.
  • Carefully fold the absorbent paper with the clean side out and place in a plastic bag for transfer to a radioactive waste container. Put contaminated gloves and any other contaminated disposable material in the bag.
  • Survey the area with an appropriate low-range radiation survey meter or other appropriate technique. Check the area around the spill for contamination. Also check hands, clothing, and shoes for contamination.
  • Record the incident and corrective actions taken on the inventory, usage and waste spreadsheet.
  • Notify the RSO of the incident.

• Reminders to RSO

• • Follow up on the decontamination activities.
  • As appropriate, determine cause and corrective actions needed; consider bioassays if licensed material may have been ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
  • If necessary, notify the NRC.

Major Spills (above the authorized limit or volatile)

• Instructions to Workers

• • Clear the area. If appropriate, survey all persons not involved in the spill and vacate the room.
  • Prevent the spread of contamination by covering the spill with absorbent paper (paper should be dampened, if solids are spilled), but do not attempt to clean it up. To prevent the spread of contamination, limit the movement of all personnel who may be contaminated.
  • If appropriate, shield the source only if it can be done without further contamination or significant increase in radiation exposure.
  • Close the room and lock or otherwise secure the area to prevent entry. Post the room with a sign to warn anyone trying to enter that a spill of radioactive material has occurred.
  • Notify the RSO immediately.
  • Survey all personnel who could possibly have been contaminated.
• Decontaminate personnel by removing contaminated clothing and flushing contaminated skin with lukewarm water and then washing with a mild soap.
  • Allow no one to return to work in the area unless approved by the RSO.
  • Cooperate with the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., investigation of root cause, provision of requested bioassay samples).
  • Follow the instructions of the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., decontamination techniques, surveys, provision of bioassay samples, requested documentation).
• Reminders to RSO
  • Confirm decontamination of personnel. If decontamination of personnel was not fully successful, consider inducing perspiration by covering the area with plastic.

• Then wash the affected area again to remove any contamination that was released by perspiration.

• • Supervise decontamination activities and document the results. Documentation should include location of surveys and decontamination results.
  • Determine cause and needed corrective actions; consider need for bioassays if licensed material is suspected to have been ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through or injected under the skin.
  • If necessary, notify the NRC.

Appendix D: Accidents, Incidents and Emergencies

Incidents Involving Radioactive Dusts, Mists, Fumes, Organic Vapors, and Gases

• Instructions to Workers

• • Notify all personnel to vacate the room immediately.
  • Shut down ventilation system, if possible, unless it is determined that the room ventilation system needs to be used to clear the air for access purposes.
  • Vacate the room. Seal the area, if possible.
  • Notify the RSO immediately.
  • Ensure that all access doors to the area are closed and posted with appropriate warning signs, or post guards (trained) at all access doors to prevent accidental opening of the doors or entry to the area.
  • Survey all persons who could possibly have been contaminated. Decontaminate as directed by the RSO.
  • Promptly report suspected inhalations and ingestions of licensed material to the RSO.
  • Decontaminate the area only when advised and/or supervised by the RSO.
  • Allow no one to return to work in the area unless approved by the RSO.
  • Cooperate with the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., investigation of root cause, provision of requested bioassay samples).
  • Follow the instructions of the RSO and the RSO’s staff (e.g., decontamination techniques, surveys, provision and collection of bioassay samples, requested documentation).
• Reminders to RSO
  • Supervise decontamination activities.
  • Perform air sample surveys in the area before permitting resumption of work with licensed materials.
  • Provide written directions to potentially contaminated individuals about providing and collecting urine, breath, blood, or fecal samples, etc.
  • Consider need for medical exam and/or whole body count before permitting involved individuals to return to work with licensed material.
  • Determine cause and corrective actions needed; consider need for bioassays if licensed material is suspected to have been ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through or injected under the skin. Document incident.
  • If necessary, notify the NRC.

Minor Fires

• Instructions to Workers

• • Immediately attempt to put out the fire by approved methods (e.g., fire extinguisher) if other fire hazards or radiation hazards are not present.
  • Notify all persons present to vacate the area and have one individual immediately call the RSO and fire department (as instructed by RSO).
  • Once the fire is out, isolate the area to prevent the spread of possible contamination.
  • Survey all persons involved in combating the fire for possible contamination.
  • Decontaminate personnel by removing contaminated clothing and flushing contaminated skin with lukewarm water, then washing with a mild soap.
  • In consultation with the RSO, determine a plan of decontamination and the types of protective devices and survey equipment necessary to decontaminate the area.
  • Allow no one to return to work in the area unless approved by the RSO.
  • Cooperate with the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., investigation of root cause, provision of requested bioassay samples).
  • Follow the instructions of the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., decontamination techniques, surveys, provision of bioassay samples, requested documentation).
• Reminders to RSO
  • Supervise decontamination activities.
  • If decontamination of personnel was not fully successful, consider inducing perspiration by covering the area with plastic. Then wash affected area again to remove any contamination that was released by the perspiration.
  • Consult with fire safety officials to ensure that there are no other possibilities of another fire starting.
  • Determine cause and needed corrective actions; consider need for bioassays if licensed material is suspected to have been ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through or injected under the skin. Document incident.
  • If necessary, notify the NRC.

Fires, Explosions, or Major Emergencies

• Instructions to Workers

• • Notify all persons in the area to leave immediately.
  • Notify the fire department.
  • Notify the RSO and other facility safety personnel.
  • Upon arrival of firefighters, inform them where radioactive materials are stored or where radionuclides were being used; inform them of the present location of the licensed material and the best possible entrance route to the radiation area, as well as any precautions to avoid exposure or risk of creating radioactive contamination by use of high pressure water, etc.
  • Cooperate with the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., investigation of root cause, provision of requested bioassay samples).
  • Allow no one to return to work in the area unless approved by the RSO.
  • Follow the instructions of the RSO and/or the RSO’s staff (e.g., decontamination techniques, surveys, provision of bioassay samples, requested documentation).
• Reminders to RSO
  • Coordinate activities with facility’s industrial hygienist or environmental health and safety office and with local fire department.
  • Consult with the firefighting personnel and set up a controlled area where the firefighters can be surveyed for contamination of their protective clothing and equipment after the fire is extinguished.
  • Once the fire is extinguished, advise firefighters not to enter potentially contaminated areas where radioactive sources may be present or radiation areas until a thorough evaluation and survey are performed to determine the extent of the damage to the licensed material use and storage areas.
  • Perform thorough contamination surveys of the firefighters and their equipment before they leave the controlled area and decontaminate, if necessary.
  • Supervise decontamination activities.
  • Consider bioassays if licensed material is suspected to have been ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through or injected under the skin. Document incident.
  • If necessary, notify the NRC.

Incidents Involving Sealed Sources

• For an emergency situation that may occur concerning a sealed source that has been exposed unintentionally, is unshielded or compromised, the following safety instructions should be considered:
• Immediately secure and post the restricted area; maintain continuous surveillance and restrict access to the restricted area.
• Notify the RSO, RSO designee, and management personnel immediately.
• Retrieval operations should be supervised by the RSO.
• No source or suspected source should be handled directly with bare hands.
• Determine if additional dosimetry will be required during source retrieval.
• Appropriate survey instruments should be used for the response activity.
• Expedient methods of reducing unintended exposure to staff and the public, such as lead shot bags, sandbags, steel plates, and remote handling devices.
• The RSO should make required notifications to the NRC.

Release into Environment

Immediately report to the Radiation Safety Office any unplanned release of radioactive material into the environment. The Radiation Safety Office will determine, based on the quantity released, if the event is required to be reported to the NRC.

Missing Radioactive Material

Once a loss of radioactive material has been discovered, it must be immediately reported to the Radiation Safety Office. The Radiation Safety Office will:

• Gather information regarding the disappearance of the radioactive material;
• Initiate steps to locate and recover the material;
• Determine if the loss is required to be reported to the NRC according to regulations, and
• If required, report the loss in the required time frame.

Appendix E: Declaration of Pregnancy Letter

Download doc version

This form letter is provided for your convenience. To make your declaration of pregnancy, you may fill in the blanks in this form letter, or you may write your own letter.

To Supervisor/AU: ______________________________________________________________________________________________________

DECLARATION OF PREGNANCY

In accordance with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission 10 CFR 20.1208, “Dose to an Embryo\Fetus,” and State regulations, I am declaring that I am pregnant. I believe I became pregnant in _________________________ (only month and year need to be provided).

I understand that my occupational radiation dose during my entire pregnancy will not be allowed to exceed 0.5 rem (5 milliseverts) (unless that dose has already been exceeded between the time of conception and submitting this letter). I am also aware of that the radiation exposure to the embryo/fetus of a declared pregnant woman should not exceed an ALARA action level of 50 mrem per month. I also understand that meeting the lower dose limit may require a change in job or job responsibilities during my pregnancy.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Your name printed)

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Department, phone #, e-mail)

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

(Your Signature and Date)

Please submit the completed form to the Office of Radiation Safety: [email protected]