Introduction - hdbk10790011

Tritium Primer

DOE-HDBK-1079-94

INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

This Primer is designed for use by operations and maintenance personnel to improve their

knowledge of tritium safe handling practices. It is applicable to many job classifications and can

be used as a reference for classroom work or for self-study. It is presented in general terms so that

it can be used throughout the DOE Complex.

The information in this Primer should enable the reader to do the following:

Describe methods of measuring airborne tritium concentration.

List the types of protective clothing that are effective against tritium uptake from surface

and airborne contamination.

Name two methods of reducing the body dose after a tritium uptake.

Describe the most common method for determining the amount of tritium uptake in the

body.

Describe the steps to take following an accidental release of airborne tritium.

Describe the damage to metals that results from absorption of tritium.

Explain how washing hands or showering in cold water helps reduce tritium uptake.

Describe how tritium exchanges with normal hydrogen in water and hydrocarbons.

The organization of the Primer is as indicated in the Overview. The following section contains

background information on "Radiological Fundamentals." Those familiar with these topics may

elect to skip this section and begin reading at the section entitled "Physical and Chemical

Properties of Tritium." Additional information about tritium is available from the sources listed in

the "Bibliography" section.

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Tritium