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University of Notre Dame. Department of Risk Management and Safety 2014 Radiation Safety Refresher Training. INTRODUCTION. Lessons 1-5 will provide a review of some general knowledge of radiation with which all radioactive material and radiation producing machines should be familiar. - PowerPoint PPT PresentationTRANSCRIPT
University of Notre DameUniversity of Notre Dame
Department of Risk Management Department of Risk Management and Safetyand Safety
2014 Radiation Safety 2014 Radiation Safety
Refresher TrainingRefresher Training
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
• Lessons 1-5 will provide a review of some general Lessons 1-5 will provide a review of some general knowledge of radiation with which all radioactive knowledge of radiation with which all radioactive material and radiation producing machines material and radiation producing machines should be familiar.should be familiar.
• Lessons 6-14 address specific safety practices Lessons 6-14 address specific safety practices and procedures applicable to laboratories at and procedures applicable to laboratories at Notre DameNotre Dame
Lesson 1Lesson 1Forms of RadiationForms of Radiation
Forms of Ionizing RadiationForms of Ionizing Radiation
Ionizing radiation includes emissions with radiation includes emissions with energies greater than 20 electron volts that energies greater than 20 electron volts that cause ionizations when interacting with cause ionizations when interacting with matter.matter.
Sources of ionizing radiation at Notre Dame Sources of ionizing radiation at Notre Dame include: include:
Particulate Radiation
− Alpha
− Beta
Photon Radiation
− Gamma
− X-Ray
• BETA RADIATIONBETA RADIATION– Consists of an electronConsists of an electron– Very small size moving at Very small size moving at
up to 99% the speed of up to 99% the speed of lightlight
– Hazard depends on decay Hazard depends on decay energy of isotopeenergy of isotope
•ALPHA RADIATION ALPHA RADIATION – Consists of two protons and Consists of two protons and
two neutrons (helium nucleus)two neutrons (helium nucleus)– Massive size, moving at 80% Massive size, moving at 80%
the speed of lightthe speed of light– Internal HazardInternal Hazard
Particulate RadiationParticulate Radiation
Examples of Beta EmittersExamples of Beta Emitters
• H-3: H-3: Energy Energy maxmax = 19 Kev: Internal Hazard = 19 Kev: Internal Hazard
• C-14: Energy C-14: Energy maxmax = 160 Kev: Internal Hazard = 160 Kev: Internal Hazard
• S-35: Energy S-35: Energy maxmax = 170 Kev: Internal Hazard = 170 Kev: Internal Hazard
• P-32: Energy P-32: Energy maxmax = 1700 Kev: Internal and = 1700 Kev: Internal and external hazard external hazard
−The lower energy beta emitters are less penetrating and present less of a hazard. The concerns with these isotopes is primarily associated with internal exposure due to ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption
−Higher energy beta emitters are more penetrating and present both internal and external hazards
Photon RadiationPhoton Radiation
• GAMMA RADIATION GAMMA RADIATION – A wave radiation A wave radiation
consisting of a photonconsisting of a photon
– Travels at the speed of Travels at the speed of lightlight
– Created in the Created in the nucleusnucleus of of the atomthe atom
• X-RAYS X-RAYS – A wave radiation A wave radiation
consisting of a photonconsisting of a photon
– Travels at the speed of Travels at the speed of lightlight
– Created in the Created in the electron electron shellshell of the atom of the atom
Examples of Gamma Examples of Gamma EmittersEmitters
• I-125: Energy I-125: Energy max max = 35 Kev: Internal/External = 35 Kev: Internal/External Hazard Hazard
• Cs-137: Energy Cs-137: Energy maxmax= 662 Kev: Internal/External = 662 Kev: Internal/External Hazard Hazard
−Gamma Emitters have no mass and are very penetrating
−All gamma emitting isotopes and are considered both internal and external hazards
Bremsstrahlung RadiationBremsstrahlung Radiation− Literally: breaking radiationLiterally: breaking radiation
−Electromagnetic radiation produced Electromagnetic radiation produced
when an electrically charged particle when an electrically charged particle
is slowed down by the electric field is slowed down by the electric field
of an atomic nucleusof an atomic nucleus
−Example: The beta particle emitted Example: The beta particle emitted
by a P-32 atom will interact with lead by a P-32 atom will interact with lead
to give off an x-rayto give off an x-ray
−Bremsstrahlung production must be Bremsstrahlung production must be
considered when planning the considered when planning the
shielding of high energy beta shielding of high energy beta
emittersemitters
00
e-
X-ray
e-
Lesson 2Lesson 2Units of RadioactivityUnits of Radioactivity
Units of RadioactivityUnits of Radioactivity
The Curie (Ci) – Commonly used in the United The Curie (Ci) – Commonly used in the United StatesStates
1 Ci = 3.7E10 disintegrations per second1 Ci = 3.7E10 disintegrations per second1 Ci = 2.2E12 disintegrations per minute1 Ci = 2.2E12 disintegrations per minute1 Ci = 1000 millicurie (mCi) = 1,000,000 1 Ci = 1000 millicurie (mCi) = 1,000,000 microcurie (uCi)microcurie (uCi)
The Becquerel (Bq) - International UnitThe Becquerel (Bq) - International Unit
1 Bq1 Bq = 1 disintegration per second= 1 disintegration per second
1 MBq1 MBq = 1,000,000 disintegrations per = 1,000,000 disintegrations per secondsecond
1 GBq1 GBq = 1,000,000,000 disintegrations per = 1,000,000,000 disintegrations per secondsecond
1 Bq = 2.7E-8 mCi1 Bq = 2.7E-8 mCi
RAD
• The RAD is the unit commonly used in the United States for Absorbed Dose (D)
• It is determined by the Energy that is actually deposited in matter
• 1 Rad = 100 ergs of deposited energy per gram of absorber
Gray
• International Unit for Absorbed Dose1 Gray = 100 Rads
Units of RadioactivityUnits of Radioactivity
REMREM
• The REM is the unit commonly used in the The REM is the unit commonly used in the United States for the Dose EquivalentUnited States for the Dose Equivalent
• Determined by Multiplying the absorbed dose Determined by Multiplying the absorbed dose (D) times a quality factor (Q)(D) times a quality factor (Q)
• Q equals 1 for beta, gamma and x-rays,Q equals 1 for beta, gamma and x-rays,
5-20 for neutrons, and 20 for alpha5-20 for neutrons, and 20 for alpha
SievertSievert
• International Unit for absorbed dose International Unit for absorbed dose
1 Sievert = 100 REM1 Sievert = 100 REM
Units of RadioactivityUnits of Radioactivity
• Most labs at Notre Dame will use only beta, Most labs at Notre Dame will use only beta, gamma and/or x-ray emittersgamma and/or x-ray emitters
The Quality factor for these forms of radiation The Quality factor for these forms of radiation is equal to 1is equal to 1
Therefore the Rad is equal to the RemTherefore the Rad is equal to the Rem
If your lab is one of the few using alpha, If your lab is one of the few using alpha, remember that the QF is 20. Therefore, one remember that the QF is 20. Therefore, one Rad of alpha is equal to 20 Rem.Rad of alpha is equal to 20 Rem.
• Exposure reports are documented in mREMExposure reports are documented in mREM
1 REM = 1,000 mREM1 REM = 1,000 mREM
Units of RadioactivityUnits of Radioactivity
Lesson 3Lesson 3Half LifeHalf Life
Half LifeHalf Life• The half life of a materials is the time required The half life of a materials is the time required
for 1/2 of the radioactive atoms to decayfor 1/2 of the radioactive atoms to decay
• The half life is a distinct value for each The half life is a distinct value for each radioisotoperadioisotope
Half Life of Selected Half Life of Selected RadioisotopesRadioisotopes
• Flourine-18: Flourine-18: 109.8 minutes109.8 minutes• Phosphorus-32:Phosphorus-32: 14.3 days14.3 days• Tritium:Tritium: 12.3 years12.3 years• Carbon-14:Carbon-14: 5,730 years5,730 years• Uranium:Uranium: 4,500,000,000 years4,500,000,000 years
Example of Half LifeExample of Half Life• You receive a shipment of 250 You receive a shipment of 250 µµCi of P-32Ci of P-32
– The half life of P-32 is 14.3 daysThe half life of P-32 is 14.3 days
• If you do not use the P-32 until 14.3 days If you do not use the P-32 until 14.3 days after receiving the material, you will only after receiving the material, you will only have 125 have 125 µµCi leftCi left
– If you wait 28.6 days, you will only have If you wait 28.6 days, you will only have 62.5 62.5 µµCi leftCi left
• It is important to consider the half life of the It is important to consider the half life of the radioisotope when planning a study that radioisotope when planning a study that includes the use of radioactive materialsincludes the use of radioactive materials
Lesson 4Lesson 4Background RadiationBackground Radiation
Background RadiationBackground Radiation
• Natural and man-made sources of Natural and man-made sources of radiation everybody is exposed to in their radiation everybody is exposed to in their daily livesdaily lives
• Typically 20 to 30 mRem per monthTypically 20 to 30 mRem per month
How Might I Be Exposed?How Might I Be Exposed?
Average Annual Exposure to Average Annual Exposure to the General Publicthe General Public
• CosmicCosmic
• TerrestrialTerrestrial
• RadonRadon
• MedicalMedical
• TotalTotal
• 30 mRem30 mRem
• 40 mRem40 mRem
• 230 mRem230 mRem
• 90 mRem90 mRem
• 390 mRem390 mRem
Lesson 5Lesson 5Biological Effects & RiskBiological Effects & Risk
Biological EffectsBiological Effects
• Data is largely based on high exposures to Data is largely based on high exposures to individuals within the first half of the 20individuals within the first half of the 20thth century century
• Biological effects occur when exposure to Biological effects occur when exposure to radiation exceeds 50 rads over a short period of radiation exceeds 50 rads over a short period of timetime
• All occupational exposures are limited by city, All occupational exposures are limited by city, state, or federal regulationsstate, or federal regulations
Radiation DamageRadiation Damage
• Mechanical: Direct hit to the DNA by the Mechanical: Direct hit to the DNA by the radiation radiation
- Damages cells by breaking the DNA bonds- Damages cells by breaking the DNA bonds
• Chemical: Generates peroxides which can Chemical: Generates peroxides which can attack the DNA attack the DNA
Damage can be repaired for small amounts of Damage can be repaired for small amounts of exposureexposure
RadiosensitivityRadiosensitivity
• MuscleMuscle RadioresistantRadioresistant
• StomachStomach RadiosensitiveRadiosensitive
• Bone MarrowBone Marrow RadiosensitiveRadiosensitive
• Human GonadsHuman Gonads Very Very RadiosensitiveRadiosensitive
Radiation EffectsRadiation Effects
• Acute Effects: Nausea, Vomiting, Reddening Acute Effects: Nausea, Vomiting, Reddening
of Skin, Hair Loss, Blood Changesof Skin, Hair Loss, Blood Changes
• Latent Effects: Cataracts, Genetic effects, Latent Effects: Cataracts, Genetic effects,
CancerCancer
Dose Required for Acute Dose Required for Acute EffectsEffects
If an individual receives a dose in excess If an individual receives a dose in excess of 50 Rem (50,000 mRem) in a short of 50 Rem (50,000 mRem) in a short period of time, he/she will experience period of time, he/she will experience
acute effectsacute effects
Risk of CancerRisk of Cancer
The level of exposure is related to the risk of illness
While the risk for high levels of exposure is apparent, the risk for low levels is unclear
It is estimated that 1 rem TEDE of exposure increase likelihood of cancer by 1 in 1000
The likelihood of cancer in ones life time is 1 in 3 from all other factors
Factors Affecting RiskFactors Affecting Risk
• The amount of time over which the dose was received
• The type of radiation
• The general health of the individual
• The age of the individual
• The area of the body exposed
Lesson 6Lesson 6Occupational ExposureOccupational Exposure
What are the Occupational What are the Occupational Exposure Limits ?Exposure Limits ?
• Whole Body
• Extremities
• Skin of Whole Body
• Lens of Eye
• Thyroid
• 5,000 mRem/year
• 50,000 mRem/year
• 50,000 mRem/year
• 15,000 mRem/year
• 15,000 mRem/year
Other Other OccupationalOccupational Limits Limits
• ALARA - As Low As Reasonably Achievable. This is our policy AND the NRC’s: Don’t expose yourself to radiation any more than absolutely necessary.
Exposure to the General Exposure to the General PublicPublic
• Annual limit of 100 mRem to individuals
• This includes anybody in the laboratory who does not work for Notre Dame
• Examples: salesmen, vendors, family members, etc.
Prenatal Radiation Prenatal Radiation ExposureExposure
• In the embryo stage, cells are dividing very In the embryo stage, cells are dividing very rapidly and are undifferentiated in their rapidly and are undifferentiated in their structure and are more sensitive to structure and are more sensitive to radiation exposureradiation exposure
• Especially sensitive during the first 2 to 3 Especially sensitive during the first 2 to 3 months after conceptionmonths after conception
• This sensitivity increases the risk of cancer This sensitivity increases the risk of cancer and retardationand retardation
Declaring Pregnancy Declaring Pregnancy
– Additional dose restrictions are available for the Additional dose restrictions are available for the pregnant workerpregnant worker
– Receive a monthly dosimeterReceive a monthly dosimeter– Limited to 500 mRem during the term of the Limited to 500 mRem during the term of the
pregnancypregnancy– Also, limited to 50 mRem per monthAlso, limited to 50 mRem per month– DECLARATION IS STRICTLY OPTIONALDECLARATION IS STRICTLY OPTIONAL
Exposure to MinorsExposure to Minors
Individuals under the age of 18Individuals under the age of 18
– Must not receive an exposure greater than Must not receive an exposure greater than 10% of occupational exposure for adults10% of occupational exposure for adults
– Wholebody Exposure Limit: 500 mRemWholebody Exposure Limit: 500 mRem
– Minors will wear dosimeters in laboratories Minors will wear dosimeters in laboratories licensed for radioactive material uselicensed for radioactive material use
– Minors should not work with radioactive Minors should not work with radioactive materialmaterial
Lesson 7Lesson 7Minimizing ExposureMinimizing Exposure
How Do I Protect Myself?How Do I Protect Myself?
• Reducing the dose from any source Reducing the dose from any source radiation exposure involves the use of radiation exposure involves the use of three protective measures:three protective measures:
– TIMETIME
– DISTANCEDISTANCE
– SHIELDINGSHIELDING
TimeTime
−The amount of exposure an individual accumulates is directly proportional to the time of exposure
−Keep handling time to a minimum
DistanceDistance
−The relationship between distance and exposure follows the inverse square law. The intensity of the radiation exposure decreases in proportion to the inverse of the distance squared
− Dose2 = Dose1 x
(d1/d2)2
ShieldingShielding
−To shield against beta To shield against beta emissions, use emissions, use plexiglass to decrease plexiglass to decrease the production of the production of bremsstrahlung bremsstrahlung radiation. radiation.
− If necessary, If necessary, supplement with lead supplement with lead after the plexiglassafter the plexiglass
−To shield against To shield against gamma and x-rays, gamma and x-rays, use lead, leaded glass use lead, leaded glass or leaded plasticor leaded plastic
Internal ExposureInternal Exposure− Only a few commonly used
radionuclides at Notre Dame present an external exposure potential
− All radionuclides present a potential for internal exposure if taken into the body. Entry into the body can occur by inhalation, ingestion, or absorption through the skin
Minimizing Internal Minimizing Internal ExposureExposure
• Wear personal protective equipmentWear personal protective equipment
• If required, use a fume hoodIf required, use a fume hood
• No eating, drinking or applying cosmeticsNo eating, drinking or applying cosmetics
• Clean up spills promptlyClean up spills promptly
• Routinely monitor work areaRoutinely monitor work area
• Secure radioactive materialSecure radioactive material
Minimum Protective Minimum Protective EquipmentEquipment
• Laboratory coatLaboratory coat
• GlovesGloves
• Safety GlassesSafety Glasses
• DosimetersDosimeters
Lesson 8Lesson 8Regulatory RequirementsRegulatory Requirements
Notre DameNotre Dame’’s Licenses License
• Broadscope license issued by the Nuclear Broadscope license issued by the Nuclear Regulatory CommissionRegulatory Commission
• Permits the use of radioactive material in Permits the use of radioactive material in research and development, as well as research and development, as well as education.education.
• Must be renewed every 10 yearsMust be renewed every 10 years
Radiation Safety Radiation Safety RequirementsRequirements
• Radiation Safety OfficerRadiation Safety Officer
• Radiation Safety CommitteeRadiation Safety Committee
• Approved Responsible Approved Responsible InvestigatorsInvestigators
• Radioisotope UsersRadioisotope Users
Records to be Kept on FileRecords to be Kept on FileIn the LaboratoryIn the Laboratory - Receipt of material - Receipt of material - Utilization of - Utilization of material (logs)material (logs) - Waste disposal - Waste disposal - Monthly Wipe tests- Monthly Wipe tests -Training verification-Training verification
The NRC Inspectors will The NRC Inspectors will look specifically for these look specifically for these completed documents in completed documents in the lab Radiation Safety the lab Radiation Safety notebooks which should be notebooks which should be stored in every radiation stored in every radiation lab.lab.
By Radiation SafetyBy Radiation Safety -Principal Investigator-Principal Investigator -Isotope limits-Isotope limits -Receipt of material-Receipt of material
-Waste transferred-Waste transferred -Lab inspections-Lab inspections -Exposure reports-Exposure reports
Records (Continued)Records (Continued)
If radioactivity is not used or stored If radioactivity is not used or stored during a month, a signed statement during a month, a signed statement may be substituted for a wipe testmay be substituted for a wipe test
Example of Signed Statement:Example of Signed Statement:
““There has been no radioactive material There has been no radioactive material use or storage in lab ____ during the use or storage in lab ____ during the month of ____month of ____””..
Radiation Safety Radiation Safety InspectionsInspections
• Inspections are conducted at least every Inspections are conducted at least every
other monthother month
• Review isotope use records and wipe test Review isotope use records and wipe test
recordsrecords
• Confirm appropriate postings and labelsConfirm appropriate postings and labels
• Personal protective equipment and dosimetryPersonal protective equipment and dosimetry
• Shielding and survey instrument availableShielding and survey instrument available
• Contamination and radiation dose rate surveyContamination and radiation dose rate survey
Where Will Isotopes be Where Will Isotopes be Found?Found?
• In labs labeled with In labs labeled with ““Caution Radioactive Caution Radioactive
MaterialMaterial”” signs at the entrance signs at the entrance
• Usually stored in freezers, refrigerators, or Usually stored in freezers, refrigerators, or
fume hoodsfume hoods
• Waste stored in labeled containersWaste stored in labeled containers
• Radioactive waste storage roomsRadioactive waste storage rooms
Postings and LabelsPostings and Labels
• Entrance to laboratoryEntrance to laboratory
• Refrigerator/freezerRefrigerator/freezer
• Equipment/instrumentsEquipment/instruments
• Radioactive waste containersRadioactive waste containers
• Laboratory benchesLaboratory benches
• Fume hoods for useFume hoods for use
Labeling ContainersLabeling Containers
• All containers used for storing radioactive All containers used for storing radioactive
material or radioactive waste must be material or radioactive waste must be
stored in labeled containersstored in labeled containers
• The label displays the radiation symbol with The label displays the radiation symbol with
the words the words ““Caution Radioactive MaterialCaution Radioactive Material””
• The isotope, activity in uCi or mCi and the The isotope, activity in uCi or mCi and the
start date should be included on labelstart date should be included on label
Lesson 9Lesson 9Radiation DetectionRadiation Detection
Detecting Radiation and Detecting Radiation and ContaminationContamination
• Personal dosimeters are used to detect the occupational Personal dosimeters are used to detect the occupational exposure to employees from external sources of exposure to employees from external sources of radiationradiation
• A survey meter may be used to detect large quantities A survey meter may be used to detect large quantities of high energy beta and gamma emitters on a surfaceof high energy beta and gamma emitters on a surface
• For smaller quantities of contamination on surfaces and For smaller quantities of contamination on surfaces and low energy beta emitters, use the wipe test methodlow energy beta emitters, use the wipe test method
Film BadgeFilm Badge Required when there is a Required when there is a
possibility of receiving possibility of receiving greater than 10% of greater than 10% of exposure limitexposure limit
Monitors for gamma, x-Monitors for gamma, x-ray and high energy betaray and high energy beta
Worn for 2 monthsWorn for 2 months These are individual These are individual
specific - Do not loan outspecific - Do not loan out Return promptly after Return promptly after
receiving a new onereceiving a new one
Ring DosimeterRing Dosimeter
Monitors exposure to the hands
Used for high energy beta, gamma and x-ray radiation
Worn when handling sources like those listed above or x-ray machines
Survey InstrumentsSurvey Instruments
• Geiger Mueller (G-M) Geiger Mueller (G-M)
- Detects alpha, beta, and gamma - Detects alpha, beta, and gamma radiationradiation
- Best option for detecting beta - Best option for detecting beta contamination contamination
• Sodium Iodide DetectorSodium Iodide Detector
- Gamma and x-ray only- Gamma and x-ray only
Operational Operational CheckCheck
• Check calibration Check calibration datedate
• Confirm calibration Confirm calibration date within past yeardate within past year
• Check batteriesCheck batteries
• Check response to Check response to radioactive source to radioactive source to confirm that the confirm that the meter is operationalmeter is operational
Survey InstrumentsSurvey Instruments
Survey InstrumentsSurvey Instruments• Geiger-Mueller Geiger-Mueller
DetectorDetector– Used for beta, gamma Used for beta, gamma
and x-ray emittersand x-ray emitters– Best for P-32, S-35 Best for P-32, S-35
and C-14and C-14– Will detect I-125 and Will detect I-125 and
Cr-51Cr-51
• Sodium-Iodine Sodium-Iodine DetectorDetector– Detects gamma and x-Detects gamma and x-
ray emittersray emitters
– I-125 and Cr-51I-125 and Cr-51
– Do not use to detect Do not use to detect beta emittersbeta emitters
Wipe Test MethodWipe Test Method•The Wipe Test Method The Wipe Test Method
is a means of is a means of
monitoring for small monitoring for small
amounts of amounts of
contaminationcontamination
• It is the only method in It is the only method in
the lab for detecting H-the lab for detecting H-
33
•Wipe test surveys Wipe test surveys
should include both should include both
areas where areas where
contamination is contamination is
expected to be found expected to be found
and areas where it is and areas where it is
not expectednot expected
Wipe TestWipe Test1.1. Choose equipment and surfaces to wipeChoose equipment and surfaces to wipe
2.2. Use a filter paper or Q-tip to wipe Use a filter paper or Q-tip to wipe
approximately 100 cmapproximately 100 cm22. .
3.3. Place filter paper or Q-tip in scintillation Place filter paper or Q-tip in scintillation
vial and add scintillation fluid (use vial and add scintillation fluid (use
enough fluid to fill at least ½ of vial)enough fluid to fill at least ½ of vial)
4.4. Place sample in scintillation counterPlace sample in scintillation counter
5.5. Set scintillation counter to detect Set scintillation counter to detect
radioisotopes used in laboratoryradioisotopes used in laboratory
6.6. Include a Include a standardstandard or sample containing or sample containing
a known amount of radioactive material a known amount of radioactive material
7.7. Include a Include a background background or control sampleor control sample
Determining Activity of Determining Activity of WipesWipes
If the scintillation If the scintillation
counter only provides counter only provides
results in counts per results in counts per
minute (cpm) it will be minute (cpm) it will be
necessary to convert necessary to convert
those results to those results to
disintegrations per disintegrations per
minute (dpm). This can minute (dpm). This can
be done by including a be done by including a
control sample with control sample with
your wipes that your wipes that
contains the isotope of contains the isotope of
interest.interest.
dpm = cpm / counting dpm = cpm / counting efficiencyefficiency
Standard (cpm) / Standard Standard (cpm) / Standard (dpm) = Efficiency(dpm) = Efficiency
1 uCi = 2.22 X 101 uCi = 2.22 X 1066 dpm dpm
Decay of the standardDecay of the standard’’s s activity must be activity must be
considered.considered.
Lesson 10Lesson 10Contamination ControlContamination Control
ContaminationContamination
• Definition: Definition: Radioactive material in an Radioactive material in an undesired location undesired location
• Undesired Undesired locations: locations: Surfaces, skin, internal, airborneSurfaces, skin, internal, airborne
• Types: Types: Removable – Decontamination is Removable – Decontamination is possible possible
Fixed – Unable to decontaminateFixed – Unable to decontaminate
Contamination LimitsContamination Limits
•<20 dpm/100cm<20 dpm/100cm2 2 in restricted areas in restricted areas
•<1,000 dpm/100cm<1,000 dpm/100cm2 2 // in restricted areas in restricted areas
(radioisotope laboratories)(radioisotope laboratories)
•>1,000 dpm/100cm>1,000 dpm/100cm2 2 // immediately clean immediately clean
up to below 1,000 dpm/100cmup to below 1,000 dpm/100cm22
Frequently Contaminated Frequently Contaminated ItemsItems
in Laboratoriesin Laboratories• Radioactive containers (stock, flasks, beakers)Radioactive containers (stock, flasks, beakers)
• Laboratory benches and sinksLaboratory benches and sinks
• Laboratory apparatus and equipmentLaboratory apparatus and equipment((CentrifugeCentrifuge, Freezer, Waterbath) , Freezer, Waterbath)
• Radioactive waste containersRadioactive waste containers
• Refrigerator door handlesRefrigerator door handles
• Laboratory door handlesLaboratory door handles
• Gloves and laboratory coatsGloves and laboratory coats
Contamination ControlContamination Control• Work in areas designated for radioactive materialWork in areas designated for radioactive material
• Use absorbent padsUse absorbent pads
• Wear appropriate protective clothingWear appropriate protective clothing
• Change gloves frequentlyChange gloves frequently
• Perform a dry run of the procedure without Perform a dry run of the procedure without radioactive materialsradioactive materials
− It is recommend that you set up well-defined, clearly labeled radioactive material work stations and restrict radioactive materials use to those areas
Spill ResponseSpill Response
• Notify people working in the laboratoryNotify people working in the laboratory
• Control access to the affected areaControl access to the affected area
• Wear gloves, lab coat, and safety glassesWear gloves, lab coat, and safety glasses
• Clean spill from the outer perimeter inwardClean spill from the outer perimeter inward
• Avoid spattering and generating aerosolsAvoid spattering and generating aerosols
• After initial clean up, monitor for After initial clean up, monitor for contaminationcontamination
• Repeat process if contamination remainsRepeat process if contamination remains
• Call the RSO (x2243) if you need help or if Call the RSO (x2243) if you need help or if the spill is greater than 100 the spill is greater than 100 µµCiCi
Decontamination of SkinDecontamination of Skin
• If the radioactive material is a high energy If the radioactive material is a high energy
beta, gamma, or x-ray emitter, monitor with beta, gamma, or x-ray emitter, monitor with
a survey meter and record readinga survey meter and record reading
• Gently wash the affected area for 15 minutes Gently wash the affected area for 15 minutes
with lukewarm water and a mild soapwith lukewarm water and a mild soap
• If you continue to find contamination, repeat If you continue to find contamination, repeat
washing and monitoring for up to 3 timeswashing and monitoring for up to 3 times
• Record final survey meter readingsRecord final survey meter readings
• Contact Radiation Safety at x2243Contact Radiation Safety at x2243
Lesson 11Lesson 11Obtaining Radioactive Obtaining Radioactive
MaterialsMaterials
Ordering Radioactive Ordering Radioactive MaterialMaterial• Orders are placed electronically through Buy ND• All orders must be approved by the Radiation
Safety Office
• When purchasing radioactive material from a vendor provide the following:– The Radioisotope– Amount of material – Name and phone number of P.I.
• All packages must be addressed to Central Receiving/Douglas Road attn: Risk Management and Safety
OrderingOrdering
−Typically, orders arrive Typically, orders arrive the following daythe following day
−Ensure that somebody Ensure that somebody is available to pick up is available to pick up the Packagethe Package
−Wear lab coat and Wear lab coat and dosimeter to pick up dosimeter to pick up package package
−Sign receipt log prior Sign receipt log prior to leaving Safetyto leaving Safety
Check ContentsCheck Contents
−Check box for Check box for
contamination using a contamination using a
Geiger counter or wipe Geiger counter or wipe
test.test.
−Confirm that content of Confirm that content of
package is not package is not
contaminated.contaminated.
− If it is contaminated If it is contaminated
contact Safety.contact Safety.
−Deface or remove any Deface or remove any
radiation labels on the radiation labels on the
box and discard as box and discard as
regular waste.regular waste.
Receiving Radioactive Receiving Radioactive MaterialMaterial
Receiving Radioactive Receiving Radioactive MaterialMaterial
−Checking package for contamination Checking package for contamination (Left)(Left)
−Defacing labels (Right)Defacing labels (Right)
Lesson 12Lesson 12Radioactive WasteRadioactive Waste
Radioactive Waste Radioactive Waste DisposalDisposal
• Minimize generation of wasteMinimize generation of waste
• Identify and segregate dry solid Identify and segregate dry solid wastewaste
- long lived (H-3 and C-14)- long lived (H-3 and C-14)
- - short lived (P-32 and S-35)- - short lived (P-32 and S-35)
•Complete a waste form for pickupComplete a waste form for pickup
• Keep disposal recordsKeep disposal records
Do Not Mix Do Not Mix WasteWaste Types Types
• Do not place scintillation vials into dry solid Do not place scintillation vials into dry solid
waste containerswaste containers
• Do not place dry solid waste into liquid Do not place dry solid waste into liquid
scintillation vial wastescintillation vial waste
• Do not place liquid waste container into dry Do not place liquid waste container into dry
solid waste containerssolid waste containers
• DO NOT MIX LONG AND SHORT HALF-LIVED DO NOT MIX LONG AND SHORT HALF-LIVED
WASTE (Break point = 89 days)WASTE (Break point = 89 days)
Holding Radioactive WasteHolding Radioactive Waste for Decay for Decay
• Provide appropriate shielding for the wasteProvide appropriate shielding for the waste
• Seal the container to prevent individuals from Seal the container to prevent individuals from
adding to the wasteadding to the waste
• Label the waste container with the isotope, Label the waste container with the isotope,
amount of radioactive material, and date the amount of radioactive material, and date the
container was sealedcontainer was sealed
• Hold for 10 half-lives. This will be done by Hold for 10 half-lives. This will be done by
RM&S. RM&S.
Radioactive Waste Radioactive Waste ContainersContainers
• DO NOTDO NOT dispose of dispose of
radioactive waste in:radioactive waste in:
- medical waste - medical waste
containerscontainers
- general waste - general waste
containerscontainers
• Use only approved Use only approved
radioactive waste radioactive waste
containers supplied containers supplied
by Radiation Safety by Radiation Safety
which contains a which contains a
warning label warning label
““Caution Radioactive Caution Radioactive
MaterialMaterial””
Scintillation VialsScintillation Vials
• Place in a separate container from the dry solid Place in a separate container from the dry solid
radioactive wasteradioactive waste
• Separate scintillation vials containing long lived Separate scintillation vials containing long lived
isotopes isotopes
(H-3 and C-14) from those containing shorter lived (H-3 and C-14) from those containing shorter lived
isotopes (P-32, I-125)isotopes (P-32, I-125)
• Ensure the lids are secured tightly on the bottlesEnsure the lids are secured tightly on the bottles
• Do not overfill the containerDo not overfill the container
• Complete a Radioactive Waste Ticket and send to Complete a Radioactive Waste Ticket and send to
Safety when container is fullSafety when container is full
Contaminated SharpsContaminated Sharps• SyringesSyringes
• Pasteur Pasteur
PipettesPipettes
• ScalpelScalpel
• NeedlesNeedles– Radioactive sharps Radioactive sharps
must be segregated must be segregated
from other radioactive from other radioactive
waste and placed in a waste and placed in a
radioactive materials radioactive materials
labeled sharps labeled sharps
container. container.
Collecting LiquidCollecting Liquid
• Use a durable carboy from RM&SUse a durable carboy from RM&S
• Attach a radiation warning label to the Attach a radiation warning label to the
bottlebottle
• Document the isotope, activity and date Document the isotope, activity and date
on the containeron the container
• Secure the lid on the container at all timesSecure the lid on the container at all times
Lesson 13Lesson 13Clearing EquipmentClearing Equipment
Clearing EquipmentClearing Equipment
For repair by Engineering or Vendor:For repair by Engineering or Vendor:
•Ensure equipment is empty of all samples, Ensure equipment is empty of all samples, containers, and radioactive materialcontainers, and radioactive material
•Conduct wipe test and present results to Conduct wipe test and present results to RSORSO
•Monitor with survey meterMonitor with survey meter
•Decontaminate equipment if requiredDecontaminate equipment if required
Lesson 14Lesson 14ReviewReview
When Working with Low When Working with Low Energy Beta EmittersEnergy Beta Emitters
• Examples: H-3, C-14, S-35, P-33Examples: H-3, C-14, S-35, P-33
• Follow General Safety RequirementsFollow General Safety Requirements
• Use a GM survey meter for large Use a GM survey meter for large
quantities of C-14, S-35 and P-33quantities of C-14, S-35 and P-33
• Isolate, label, and dispose of wasteIsolate, label, and dispose of waste
• Secure material in refrigerator/freezerSecure material in refrigerator/freezer
When Working with High When Working with High Energy Beta Emitters (P-32)Energy Beta Emitters (P-32)
• Use Plexiglas shielding for storageUse Plexiglas shielding for storage
• Wear Luxel dosimeter and extremity dosimeters if Wear Luxel dosimeter and extremity dosimeters if
requiredrequired
• Handle material behind a Plexiglas shieldHandle material behind a Plexiglas shield
• Regularly monitor work area and gloves for Regularly monitor work area and gloves for
contaminationcontamination
• Use a GM detector or liquid scintillation counterUse a GM detector or liquid scintillation counter
Working with Gamma or X-ray Working with Gamma or X-ray Emitters (I-125)Emitters (I-125)
• Store in leaded containersStore in leaded containers
• Pre-experiment thyroid scan for work with large Pre-experiment thyroid scan for work with large
quantities or volatile forms of I-125quantities or volatile forms of I-125• Wear Luxel dosimeter and extremity dosimeters Wear Luxel dosimeter and extremity dosimeters
if requiredif required
• Use leaded glass/Plexiglas shieldUse leaded glass/Plexiglas shield
• Regularly monitor surfaces glovesRegularly monitor surfaces gloves
• Use NaI detector or liquid scintillation counterUse NaI detector or liquid scintillation counter
• Post experiment thyroid scan for work with Post experiment thyroid scan for work with
large quantities or volatile forms of I-125large quantities or volatile forms of I-125
Telephone NumbersTelephone Numbers
• Radiation Safety: 1-5037Radiation Safety: 1-5037• Fax: 1-8794Fax: 1-8794• Risk Management & Safety website: Risk Management & Safety website:
www.riskmanagement.nd.edu• After hours, weekends, holidays: After hours, weekends, holidays:
Call ND Security 1-5555Call ND Security 1-5555