Radioactive Waste Minimization

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Absorption through wounds

b. Methods to reduce internal radiation dose

Reducing the potential for radioactive materials to enter the body is important. As

previously stated, install or use engineering controls followed by administrative

controls as the primary methods to control internal exposure. PPE is the last choice

for controlling internal exposure. In addition, the following are methods the worker

can use.

Wear respirators properly when required. Respirators should only be used

by personnel qualified to wear them.

Report all wounds or cuts (including scratches and scabs) to the appropriate

facility-specific organization before entering any area controlled for

Comply with the requirements of the controlling work documents.

Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew in Radioactive Materials Areas,

Contamination Areas, High Contamination Areas, or Airborne Radioactivity

Areas, as dispersible radioactive materials may be present.

(Insert facility-specific information.)

Lessons Learned

Review lessons learned from your site or other sites to demonstrate what may be learned

from mistakes leading to excessive personnel exposures.

(Insert facility-specific information.)

D. Radioactive Waste Minimization

One of the potential consequences of working with radioactive materials is the generation of

radioactive waste. This radioactive waste must be properly disposed. Examples of

radioactive waste include:

Paper

Gloves

Glassware

Rags

Brooms, mops

The ALARA concept also applies to minimizing radioactive waste. This will reduce

personnel exposure associated with the handling, packaging, storing, and disposing of

radioactive waste. This will also reduce the resultant costs. It is very important for each

radiological worker to minimize the amount of radioactive waste generated.