Minimization of Contamination Areas

DOE-HDBK-1113-98

Radiological Safety Traning for Uranium Facilities

Module 104 - Internal Dose Control

long-term, low-volume air samples that provide an average of the airborne

concentration over a given time;

short-duration, high-volume air samples taken in the breathing zone of a

worker during work activities likely to generate airborne contamination;

low-volume (about 2 liters per minute) breathing zone samples from personal

air monitors; and [Note: A liter is approximately the same volume as a quart.

Use the concept of a 2-liter soda bottle to discribe the quantity.]

continuous air monitors that track airborne contamination levels over time and

can be set to alarm if a specified level is reached.

It is important that air samples represent the actual airborne contamination levels

breathed by the worker so that accurate intakes may be estimated. Air

monitoring is also used to detect loss of containment. It is important to ensure

sample volumes and methods allow detection of airborne contamination levels

below the level of concern.

Minimization of Contamination Areas

Loose contamination on work surfaces can result in contamination of shoes,

clothing, and skin and thereby result in the potential for tracking of

contamination into uncontrolled areas.

This potent ial can be red uced by:

minimizing the size and number of contamination areas,

using disposable work surfaces (such as covering a benchtop with plastic)

when performing work that is likely to generate contamination, and

promptly decontaminating work surfaces (good housekeeping).