Decontamination - doe-hdbk-1106-97

DOE-HDBK-1106-97

VII. DECONTAMINATION

Decontamination is the removal of radioactive materials from locations where it is not

wanted. This does not result in the disappearance of radioactive material, but involves the

removal of the radioactive materials to another location.

Decontamination or Not

If the presence of loose contamination is discovered, decontamination is a valuable

means of control.

1. Economical conditions

Cost of time and labor to decontaminate location outweighs the hazards of the

contamination present.

2. Radiological conditions

Radiation dose rates or other radiological conditions present hazards that far

exceed the benefits of decontamination.

Preventive Methods

1. Identifying and repairing leaks before they become a serious problem.

2. Changing out gloves or protective gear as necessary to prevent cross-

contamination of equipment.

Skin Contamination

Skin contamination normally does not cause physical injury to the skin. Some

nuclides and chemical forms allow the absorption through the skin (i.e., iodine

and tritium). Strong beta emitters may present a hazard to the skin.