Considerations in Rescue and Recovery Operations

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Module 7: Radiological Emergencies

Instructor's Notes

For other spills:

Stop or secure the operation causing the spill, if it

can be done safely

Warn others in the area and notify Radiological

Control personnel

Isolate the spill area, if possible

Minimize individual exposure and contamination

Secure unfiltered ventilation (fan, open windows,

etc.)

Considerations in Rescue and Recovery

Operations

In extremely rare cases, emergency exposure to high

levels of radiation may be necessary. This is done to

rescue personnel or protect major property.

Rescue and recovery operations that involve

radiological hazards can be very complex.

The type of response to these operations is generally

left up to the official in charge of the emergency

situation. The official's judgment is guided by many

variables that include determining the risk versus the

benefit of an action and deciding how best to

implement the action.

No individual shall be required to perform a rescue

action that might involve substantial personal risk.

All personnel selected to provide emergency

response shall be trained commensurate with the

hazards in the area and required controls. They shall

be briefed beforehand on the known or anticipated

hazards to which they shall be subjected.

The DOE guidelines for control of Emergency

Exposure are as follows: