Areas of Fixed Contamination cont'd

DOE-STD-1098-99

Radiological Control

Radiological Standards

June 2004

Due to reduced concerns regarding contamination spread, areas having only fixed contamination may not warrant the full

range of entry controls established for areas having removable contamination levels exceeding the Table 2-2 values.

Areas located outside of radiological areas having measured total contamination exceeding the total surface

contamination values specified in Table 2-2 (removable contamination levels below Table 2-2 values) are subject to the

following controls:

Periodic surveys shall be conducted to ensure the surface contamination remains fixed to the surface and removable

surface contamination levels remain below Table 2-2 values [see 835.1102(c)(1)].

Markings indicating the status of the area shall be applied [see 835.1102(c)(2)]. These markings should be applied

directly to the surface (or at the access points) to provide appropriate warning. These markings may also provide

appropriate instructions to individuals entering the area or contacting the surface (i.e., "Fixed Contamination" or

"Fixed Contamination, Notify Radiological Control Personnel Prior to Removing Paint"). Signs, stencils, or other

appropriate markings may be used.

Markings and postings should be maintained in a legible condition.

Appropriate written procedures should be implemented to prevent unplanned or uncontrolled removal of the

contamination. These procedures should address issues such as access controls and fixative coatings, if needed,

survey techniques and frequency, area tracking and maintenance, and required markings.

If surveys indicate that contamination is likely to be transferred from the area, fixative coatings should be applied.

When paint is used as a fixative coating, it should consist of two layers having contrasting colors, to provide

indication of erosion of the top layer. Other fixative coatings, such as strippable coatings and applied plastics and

foams, should be periodically evaluated for evidence of degradation. Removable contamination should be reduced

to the minimum practicable level before application of fixative coatings.

Areas meeting these requirements are exempt from the posting requirements of Articles 232 - 238 and the entry and

exit requirements of Chapter 3.

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