Specific Beta Dose Control Principles - doe-hdbk-1113-98_reaffirm_2005

DOE-HDBK-1113-98

Module 103 External Dose Control

Lesson Plan

Instructor's Notes

Specific Beta Dose Control Principles

Show OT-30

Surfaces emitting beta radiation are easily shielded

with plastic or other light element materials. Use of

denser materials for shielding of high-energy beta

radiation may produce bremsstrahlung X-rays and

should be avoided.

Beta dose to the lens of the eye can be reduced by

using safety glasses. Safety glasses are commonly

worn for industrial safety concerns in areas where

uranium is handled. Heavy rubber or leather gloves

are effective in reducing the skin dose to the hand,

but their use must be balanced against other safety

concerns, such as hazards from machinery or loss of

manual dexterity.

Industrial safety concerns in a uranium facility may be

more hazardous to personnel than exposure to radiation.

Professional radiological control personnel evaluate the

process in the workplace to ensure workers receive the

maximum overall protection from all hazards, not only

radiological hazards. This is generally done in

cooperation with industrial safety and industrial hygiene

personnel.