Primary Reasons for Contamination Control - doe-hdbk-1106-97

DOE-HDBK-1106-97

Higher than normal background radiation levels on area monitors and air

samples.

Routine radiation and contamination surveys conducted by Radiological

Control Organization.

Primary Reasons for Contamination Control

Protection of the worker

Measures to control radioactive contamination are implemented to protect

workers by:

Minimizing the chance of inhalation or ingestion of radioactive/hazardous

material.

Eliminating or reducing external radiation dose rates.

Reducing worker discomfort by minimizing the use of personal protective

clothing and/or respirators.

2. Radioactive materials may enter the body by:

Inhalation (the most common pathway).

Cuts/wounds (e.g., sharp instrument punctures).

Absorption (skin, mucous membranes, eyes).

Ingestion (biting nails, applying cosmetics, eating, drinking or smoking in the

lab or outside without monitoring or washing hands).