Appendix G Animal Facilities - doe-hdbk-1106-97

DOE-HDBK-1106-97

APPENDIX G

ANIMAL FACILITIES

1.0

Objective

Describe the exposure potentials when handling animals that contain radionuclides during

experiments.

2.0

Outline

Exposure potentials.

Methods of minimizing external exposures.

Methods of minimizing internal exposures.

Methods of minimizing cross contamination.

Room contamination problems.

3.0

Dose Potentials

Animals that have had radionuclides administered to them can present a hazard both to

the individuals working with them and to the success of the experiment as well. When

using radionuclides in animals, one must be sure that the cages are well labeled, away

from much foot traffic, and properly maintained to minimize the hazards arising from

radionuclide use. Hazards that are likely to be encountered when using radionuclides in

animals are listed below:

3.1

External personnel exposure resulting from gamma-emitting radionuclides that

have been used in an animal.

3.2

Internal radiation exposure resulting from accidental ingestion of radionuclides.

3.3

Cross contamination of radionuclides from one radiological experiment to another.

3.4

Room contamination that can result in the spread of radionuclides to a non-

radioactive use area.