Characteristics of Plutonium Contamination

DOE-STD-1128-98

-- Model and serial number of counting equipment

-- Contamination levels (using appropriate units) and appropriate supporting

parameters, including counting efficiency, counting time, correction factors, type

of radiation, and whether the contamination was fixed or removable

-- Location of areas found to contain hot particles or high concentrations of

localized contamination

-- Follow-up survey results for decontamination processes cross-referenced to the

original survey (see DOE standard, Radiological Control, Ch. 1. part 754 (DOE,

2004)).

Records for the release of material and equipment from radiological areas to

controlled areas should describe the property, the date on which the release survey

was performed, the identity of the individual who performed the survey, the type and

identification number of the survey instrument used, and the results of the survey

shall be documented (10 CFR 835.703(c)). Additional details on radiation records

can be obtained from the Implementation Guide. Occupational Radiation Protection

Record-keeping and Reporting (DOE, 1999b).

All skin and personal property contaminations should be documented and evaluated

to help improve the contamination control program. Documentation should include

the following:

-- The person's name and work group

-- The location, amount, and type of skin or personal property contamination

-- The results of decontamination

-- A description of circumstances involved in the occurrence, such as radiation

work permit number, protective clothing required, and protective clothing

actually used.

4.2.3 Characteristics of Plutonium Contamination

There are few characteristics of plutonium contamination that are unique. Plutonium

contamination may be in many physical and chemical forms. (See Section 2.0 for the

many potential sources of plutonium contamination from combustion products of a

plutonium fire to radiolytic products from long-term storage.) The one characteristic

that many believe is unique to plutonium is its ability to migrate with no apparent

motive force. Whether from alpha recoil or some other mechanism, plutonium

contamination, if not contained or removed, will spread relatively rapidly throughout

an area.

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