Control of Internal Exposure

DOE-STD-1098-99

Radiological Control

Conduct of Radiological Work

June 2004

When engineering and administrative controls have been applied and the potential for airborne radioactivity still

exists, respiratory protection should be used to limit internal exposures. Us e of respiratory protection should be

considered under the following conditions:

Entry into airborne radioactivity areas

During breach of contaminated systems or components

During work in areas or on equipment with removable contamination levels greater than 100 times the values in

Table 2-2

During work on contaminated or activated surfaces with the potential to generate airborne radioactivity.

The selection of respiratory protection equipment should include consideration of worker safety, comfort, and

efficiency. The use of positive pressure respiratory protection devices is recommended wherever practicable to

alleviate fatigue and increase comfort. See Chapter 5, Part 3, for additional guidance on respiratory protection.

In specific situations, the use of respiratory protection may be inadvisable due to physical limitations or the

potential for significantly increased external exposure. In such situations, a formal radiological review should be

conducted in accordance with Article 312 to ensure measures are implemented to assess available options, monitor

and reduce worker exposure, and provide for follow-up monitoring, as required. Specific justification of the need to

accept the exposure, including a description of measures taken to mitigate the airborne radioactivity, should be

documented as part of the review process.

The following controls are applicable to activities authorized in accordance with the above:

Stay time controls to limit intake should be established for t he entry

Evaluation of workplace airborne radioactivity levels should be provided through the use of continuous air

monitors or air samplers with expedited assessment and analysis of results.

When notified that an individual with an open wound wishes to enter an area where contact with radioactive

contamination is possible, a representative of the radiological control organization should examine the wound and

require appropriate measures to prevent the entry of radioactive contamination. These measures may be range from

requiring an appropriate bandage or other covering up to prohibiting access to affected areas until the wound has

healed. If other (non-radiological) hazards are present in the area to be entered, the individual should be directed to

contact the applicable safety personnel.

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