Table 9-1 Types of Radioactive Contamination

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

It may be released when the surface is disturbed (buffing, grinding, using volatile

liquids for cleaning, etc.).

Over time it may "weep," leach, or otherwise become loose or removable.

Removable contamination is contamination that can easily be removed from surfaces.

Any object that comes in contact with it may become contaminated.

It may be transferred by casual contact, wiping, brushing, or washing.

Air movement across removable contamination could cause the contamination to

become airborne.

Airborne contamination is contamination suspended in air.

Table 9-1

Types of Radioactive Contamination

Types

Definitions (Objective EO1)

Cannot be removed by casual contact.

It may be released when the surface is disturbed

Fixed

(buffing, grinding, using volatile liquids for cleaning,

Contamination

etc.).

Over time, may become loose or removable.

May be transferred by casual contact.

Any object that makes contact with it may in turn

Removable

become contaminated.

Contamination

Air movement across removable contamination may

cause the contamination to become airborne.

Airborne contamination is contamination suspended

Airborne

in the air.

Contamination

C. Radioactive Contamination

Radiological work is required in areas and in systems that are contaminated by design (e.g.,

maintenance of valves in radioactive fluid systems).

Regardless of the precautions taken, radioactive material will sometimes contaminate objects,

areas, and people.

Sources

The following are some sources of radioactive contamination.

Leaks or breaks in radioactive fluid systems.

Leaks or breaks in air-handling systems for radioactive areas.