Package Loading and Preparation for Shipment

DOE-HDBK-1129-99

Attachment 1 to DOE Order 460.2, "Departmental Materials Transportation and Packaging

Management," requires that contractors shall comply with the HMR for on site materials transfers

or comply with an approved site- or facility specific Transportation Safety Document that describes

the methodology and compliance process to meet equivalent safety for any deviation from the

Hazardous Materials Regulations.

7.3 Package Loading and Preparation for Shipment

7.3.1 Disassembly and Inspection of the Package

DOE Order 460.2 requires that DOE contractors inspect incoming hazardous materials shipments

for damage or loss and evidence of leakage. Radioactive material shipments shall be inspected

for external surface contamination and dose rate.

Preliminary determinations prior to first use of any packaging are required by 10 CFR 71.85. The

determinations are as follows:

Ascertain that there are no cracks, pinholes, uncontrolled voids, or other defects that could

significantly reduce the effectiveness of the packaging.

Where the maximum normal operating pressure will exceed 35 kPa (5 lb/in2) gauge, the

package user shall test the containment system at an internal pressure at least 50 percent

higher than the maximum normal operating pressure to verify the capability of that system to

maintain its structural integrity at that pressure.

Prior to the first use of any radioactive materials packaging, 49 CFR 173.474 requires the offerer to

determine the following:

The packaging meets the quality of design and construction requirements as specified in

49 CFR Subpart I.

The effectiveness of the shielding, containment, and, when required, the heat transfer

characteristics of the package, are within the limits specified for the package design.

7.3.2 Package Loading and Assembly Operations

Sections 10 CFR 71.87 and 49 CFR 173.475 require routine determinations during the loading of a

radioactive materials package. Before each shipment of any Class 7 (radioactive) material, the

offerer must ensure, by examination or appropriate tests, the following:

The packaging is proper for the contents to be shipped.

The packaging is in unimpaired physical condition, except for superficial marks.

Each closure device of the packaging, including any required gasket, is properly installed,

secured, and free of defects.

Each special instruction for filling, closing, and preparation of the packaging for shipment has

been followed.

Each closure, valve, or other opening of the containment system through which radioactive

material might escape is properly closed and sealed.

The internal pressure of the containment system will not exceed the design pressure during

transportation.

External radiation and contamination levels are within the allowable limits specified in

49 CFR 173 Subpart I.