Table 9-1 Types of Radioactive Contamination

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Module 9: Radioactive Contamination Control

Instructor's Notes

Table 9-1

Types of Radioactive Contamination

Types

Definitions (Objective EO1)

Cannot be removed by casual contact.

It may be released when the surface is disturbed

Fixed

(buffing, grinding, using volatile liquids for cleaning,

Contamination

etc.).

Over time, may become loose or removable.

May be transferred by casual contact.

Any object that makes contact with it may in turn

Removable

become contaminated.

Contamination

Air movement across removable contamination may

cause the contamination to become airborne.

Airborne contamination is contamination suspended

Airborne

in the air.

Contamination

C. Radioactive Contamination

EO2 State sources of

Radiological work is required in areas and in systems that

radioactive contamination.

are contaminated by design (e.g., maintenance of valves in

radioactive fluid systems).

Regardless of the precautions taken, radioactive material

will sometimes contaminate objects, areas, and people.

Sources

The following are some sources of radioactive

contamination.

Leaks or breaks in radioactive fluid systems.

Leaks or breaks in air-handling systems for

radioactive areas.

Airborne contamination depositing on surfaces.

Leaks or tears in radioactive material containers

such as barrels, plastic bags or boxes.