CESO Department of the Army EM 385-1-80

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Engineer Washington, DC 20314-1000 30 May 1997
Manual
385-1-80
Safety

RADIATION PROTECTION MANUAL

Distribution Restriction Statement

Approved for public release; distribution is
unlimited.
 DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY EM 385-1-80
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
CESO Washington, D.C. 20314-1000

Manual 30 May 1997

No. 385-1-80

Safety
RADIATION PROTECTION MANUAL

Table of Contents

Subject Para. Page Subject Para. Page

Chapter 1. Organization of USACE Authorized Users’

Radiation Protection Program. Assistants 2-8 2-7

Purpose 1-1 1-1 Site Supervisors 2-9 2-7

Applicability 1-2 1-1 Project/Plan/Procedure

Originators and
Policy 1-3 1-1 Reviewers 2-10 2-8

Management Commitment, Radiation Protection

Involvement, and Committee 2-11 2-9
Leadership 1-4 1-2
Hazardous, Toxic and
Scope 1-5 1-2 Radioactive Waste
(HTRW), Center of
Overview of this Expertise 2-12 2-9
Manual 1-6 1-3
Refresher Training 2-13 2-10
Chapter 2. USACE Personnel
Responsibilities and Qualifications. Additional Training/
Special Applications 2-14 2-10
The Chief, Safety and
Occupational Health All Personnel including
Office, HQUSACE 2-1 2-1 Visitors at a Radiation
Site 2-15 2-10
Radiation Protection
Staff Officer 2-2 2-1 Chapter 3. Introduction to
Radiation.
USACE Commanders 2-3 2-2
Atomic Structure 3-1 3-1
Radiation Protection
Officer 2-4 2-3 Radioactive Decay 3-2 3-1

Laser Safety Officer 2-5 2-4 Activity 3-3 3-2

Qualified Health Decay Law 3-4 3-3

Physics Personnel 2-6 2-5
Types of Ionizing
Authorized Users 2-7 2-5 Radiation 3-5 3-4

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30 May 97
Interaction of Renewing Licenses or
Radiation With Matter 3-6 3-6 ARAs 4-11 4-10

Human Health Effects 3-7 3-8 Transfer of Radioactive

Materials 4-12 4-10
Determinants of Dose 3-8 3-9
Terminating a
Background Radiation 3-9 3-11 Radioactive Material
License or ARAs 4-13 4-11
Radiation Quantities 3-10 3-12
Information Flow
Biological Effects through Applicable
of Ionizing Radiation 3-11 3-16 USACE Channels 4-14 4-11

Ways to Minimize Chapter 5. Dose Limits and ALARA.

Exposure 3-12 3-18
Occupational Dose
Standing Operating Limit Structure 5-1 5-1
Procedures 3-13 3-21
USACE Dose Limits 5-2 5-1
Monitoring and
Surveying Equipment 3-14 3-21 NRC and Agreement State
Dose Limits 5-3 5-3
Chapter 4. Licensing.
OSHA Dose Limits 5-4 5-4
Overview of
Regulatory Agencies 4-1 4-1 Monitoring requirements 5-5 5-4

Types of NRC Doses to the Public 5-6 5-4

Radioactive Material
Licenses 4-2 4-1 Chapter 6. Working with Radiation.

'Storage Only' Caution Signs and

Licensing 4-3 4-4 Labels 6-1 6-1

Radiation Generating Airborne Radioactivity 6-2 6-3

Devices 4-4 4-4
Rooms/Areas in Which
Reciprocity Radioactive Material is
Requirements 4-5 4-4 No Longer Used
or Stored 6-3 6-3
Army Radiation
Authorization 4-6 4-5 Receiving Radioactive
Material 6-4 6-3
Army Radiation Permits
and Other Service Radioactive Material
Installation Permits 4-7 4-5 and Radiation
Generating Device
Applying for an NRC Inventory 6-5 6-6
License 4-8 4-7
Storing Radioactive
Applying for an ARA 4-9 4-9 Material 6-6 6-6

Amendment Requests 4-10 4-9

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30 May 97
Contamination Control 6-7 6-7 Hazmat Employee
Training 8-12 8-7
Wipe Tests 6-8 6-8
Exceptions 8-13 8-8
Leak Testing 6-9 6-9
Chapter 9. Waste Management.
Exposure Rate Surveys 6-10 6-10
Regulation of
Accident/Incident Radioactive Wastes 9-1 9-1
Response 6-11 6-11
Low Level Radioactive
Accident/Incident Waste (LLRW) 9-2 9-2
Reporting 6-12 6-11
Elements of a Waste
Audits and Reviews 6-13 6-13 Management Program 9-3 9-4

Chapter 7. Personnel Monitoring. Material Tracking 9-4 9-4

External Monitoring 7-1 7-1 Waste Minimization 9-5 9-4

Internal Monitoring 7-2 7-2 Waste Recycling 9-6 9-4

Advanced Monitoring 7-3 7-4 Waste Storage 9-7 9-5

Exposure Reporting 7-4 7-5 Waste Disposal 9-8 9-5

Chapter 8. Transportation of Radionuclide

Radioactive Material. Concentrations 9-9 9-7

Purpose 8-1 8-1 Chapter 10. Laser Safety.

Applicability 8-2 8-1 Classifications of

Lasers 10-1 10-1
Regulations 8-3 8-1
Safety features and
Procedures 8-4 8-2 Labeling Requirements 10-2 10-1

Packaging 8-5 8-2 Laser Protection

Program 10-3 10-2
Marking 8-6 8-3
OSHA Standards 10-4 10-3
Labeling 8-7 8-4
USACE Standards 10-5 10-3
Placarding 8-8 8-5
Protective Eyewear 10-6 10-3
Manifesting 8-9 8-5
Chapter 11. Radio Frequency (RF) and
Hazardous Waste Microwave Safety.
Manifesting 8-10 8-6
DA Limits 11-1 11-1
Emergency Response
Information 8-11 8-7 USACE Limits 11-2 11-1

OSHA Regulations 11-3 11-1

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30 May 97
General Guidance 11-4 11-1 Appendix E.

Warning Signs 11-5 11-2 Rules of Thumb and Conversions E-1

RF Safety Training 11-6 11-2 Appendix F.

Appendix A. Signs, Labels and Postings F-1

References A-1 Appendix G.

Appendix B. Radon G-1

Definitions B-1 Appendix H.

Appendix C. Applications and License Examples,

Applicable Forms and Statements H-1
Sample Standing Operating
Procedures C-1 Appendix I.

Appendix D. USACHPPM Survey Protocol

Checklist I-1
X-Ray Fluorescence Lead Analysis
Devices D-1 Appendix J.

Acronyms Used in this EM J-1

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Chapter 1. Organization of This manual is applicable to

USACE Radiation Protection USACE personnel and visitors to
Program. a worksite under the
jurisdiction of USACE where
1-1. Purpose. radioactive material or a
radiation generating device may
This guidance manual prescribes be present. It shall be used
the requirements of the in conjunction with ER 385-1-80
Radiation Protection Program of and EM 385-1-1. Contractor
the US Army Corps of Engineers requirements concerning
(USACE) contained in Engineer ionizing and non-ionizing
Regulation (ER) 385-1-80, radiation protection issues are
Ionizing Radiation Protection, contained in EM 385-1-1.
and Engineer Manual (EM)385-1-
1, Safety and Health 1-3. Policy.
Requirements Manual. It is to
be used when activities utilize a. USACE will work to
or handle radioactive material ensure that all personnel
(which includes radioactive radiation exposure is kept as
wastes) or a radiation low as is reasonably achievable
generating device. Radiation (ALARA) taking technological
generating devices include X- and socioeconomic factors into
ray equipment, accelerators, account. Radiation exposure to
lasers, radio-frequency and USACE personnel, visitors and
electromagnetic field contractors, as well as to the
generators. Authoritative general public, will be con-
guidance and regulations are trolled so that exposures are
contained in 10 CFR (Energy) held well below regulatory
and the NRC Regulatory Guides, limits. There shall be no
29 CFR (Labor) 1910 and 1926 radiation exposure without a
OSHA regulations, and 40 CFR commensurate benefit.
(Protection of the
Environment). This manual is b. All personnel involved
intended to assist USACE with ionizing radiation work of
Commands in integrating any kind will be knowledgeable
essential requirements of the programs, policies, and
contained in Federal, DA and procedures contained in ER 385-
USACE radiation protection 1-80 and this manual. Personnel
regulations to ensure that the working with non-ionizing
safety and health requirements radiation should be
of all agencies are met. knowledgeable of the specific
information concerning these
topics presented in this
manual. They should
demonstrate responsibility and
1-2. Applicability.

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accountability through an acceptability of health and

informed, disciplined, and safety practices by USACE
cautious attitude toward personnel and contractors on
radiation and radioactivity. USACE controlled sites.

c. Continuing improvement b. The manual is also

in radiation (ionizing and non- intended to be consistent with
ionizing) protection is all Federal (NRC, OSHA, EPA,
essential to USACE operations DOE, and DOT) DA, USACE, State,
involving radiation. All and local statutes and
personnel working with regulations (that is,
radiation are expected to look “applicable regulations”), and
for ways to improve radiation integrate the various
protection and make USACE regulations into one coherent
projects more efficient. publication for USACE
operations. It will be revised
1-4. Management Commitment, whenever necessary to achieve
Involvement, and Leadership. consistency with statutes and
regulations.
Superior, consistent
performance is achieved when c. For all contracts and
qualified personnel use activities that require
approved procedures and when Federal, State, or local
management actively monitors licensure or permitting, such
the work place and assesses licenses or permits shall be
ongoing activities. To achieve secured, and all license or
such performance requires permit conditions shall be
constant review, informed adhered to. If the stated
involvement and leadership by license or permit conditions
senior management. All levels vary from applicable sections
of management must emphasize of this manual, such license or
the need for high standards of permit conditions prevail.
radiation safety through direct Contractors will be required to
communication, clear secure proper licensure or
instruction, and frequent permitting (for activities that
inspections of the work area. require it) within specified
time frames and before the date
1-5. Scope. that they are scheduled to
begin the work. All USACE
a. This manual fully Commands and contractors using
describes policies and Army radioactive materials
procedures for the safe use of will meet requirements of
radioactive material and
radiation generating devices at Nuclear Regulatory Commission
all USACE sites. It should be (NRC) licenses and Army
used to evaluate the Radiation Authorizations (ARAs)

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issued to USACE and the US Army This manual is designed to

Materiel Command, and of address all health and safety
applicable Army technical aspects of work with radiation
publications. within USACE. Most personnel
within USACE will not need the
e. Alternatives to entire manual but will need to
procedures addressed in this select the chapters and
manual may be acceptable sections applicable to their
provided the alternatives work requirements. Some
achieve the same, or higher, generic classifications of
level of radiation protection. radiation work are listed in
Alternative procedures must be Table 1-1 with reference to the
approved by the Radiation applicable chapters of this
Protection Officer, or Laser manual. It is recommended that
Safety Officer, as appropriate, all personnel working with
and for specific conditions, radioactive material and
higher level authorities prior radiation generating devices
to implementation. read Chapters 1, 2 and 3 of
this manual. Depending on the
type of work being performed,
portions of other chapters may
be applicable.

1-6. Overview of this Manual.

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USACE Radiation Protection Command possessing an NRC

Program and the record keeping radioactive material license is
requirements for work with audited at least triennially to
radioactive material and ensure compliance with the
radiation generating devices. USACE Radiation Protection
Program. The RPSO, or
(5) a working knowledge designee, will check for
of US Nuclear Regulatory compliance with the USACE
Commission (NRC), US Radiation Protection Program
Environmental Protection Agency and the NRC radioactive
(EPA), US Department of Energy material license. The RPSO, or
(DOE), US Department of his designee will document all
Transportation (DOT), and US inspection findings and submit
Department of Labor (DOL) which them to the audited USACE
is the responsible for the US Command for review and action.
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), and US 2-3. USACE Commanders.
Army regulations pertaining to
radioactive material and USACE Commanders shall:
radiation generating devices.
a. Ensure a Radiation
b. Duties of the RPSO are Protection Committee (RPC)
as follows: shall be formed when the
Command possesses an NRC
(1) Serve as the primary license with a condition
liaison between USACE, DA and stating that the licensee shall
NRC in matters concerning have a RPC, or if the Commander
radioactive materials or considers an RPC necessary.
radiation generating devices. The RPC will consist of
personnel and duties described
(2) All NRC license in subparagraph 2-11.
actions will be submitted
through, reviewed, and accepted b. Designate, in writing,
by the RPSO. a qualified person to serve as
USACE Radiation Protection
(3) Provide a copy of all Officer (RPO) when any of the
correspondence relating to NRC following is true:
applications to DA as required.
The RPSO will retain copies of (1) an NRC License, Army
all NRC radioactive material Reactor Permit, ARA or
licenses and correspondence applicable technical
(originals will be retained by publication requires it,

the licensee). (2) personnel are required

to wear dosimetry,
(4) Ensure that each USACE

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(3) personnel are required manual. The RPO may limit or

to participate in a bioassay cease operations within their
program. Command where there is an
eminent and legitimate
c. Fund, maintain and radiation safety issue.
support the RPO and the
Radiation Protection Program. b. The RPO shall be
The RPO shall meet the responsible for:
qualifications and provide the
services described in paragraph (1) Establishing written
2-4. policies and procedures to
assure compliance with
d. Fund, maintain and applicable Federal, DOD, and
support the Laser Safety Army radiation protection
Officer (LSO) and the Laser regulations and directives.
Safety Program when a USACE These documents will include
Command operates, maintains or emergency reaction plans as
services a non-type-classified necessary and procedures for
class IIIb or class IV laser investigating and reporting
system as defined in section radiation accidents, incidents,
1.3, ANSI Z136.1. The RPO may and overexposures.
be designated as the LSO. The
LSO shall meet the (2) Assuring that all
qualifications and provide the personnel occupationally
services described in paragraph exposed to radiation receive
2-5. appropriate radiation
protection training
2-4. Radiation Protection commensurate with potential
Officer (RPO). hazards from radiation sources
they may encounter.
a. The RPO (also known as
a Radiation Safety Officer (3) Maintaining an
(RSO) in other documents) is a inventory of radiation sources
person, designated by the USACE as higher headquarters directs
Command, and tasked with the and IAW with requirements of
supervision of the USACE NRC licenses, Army reactor
Radiation Protection Program permits, ARAs, and technical
for that command. The RPO publications.
shall have direct access to
the Commander for radiation (4) Approving and filing
protection purposes. The RPO records noting all Authorized
ensures compliance with current Users, Authorized Users’

directives (AR’s, ER 385-1-80, Assistants and site supervisors

EM 385-1-1, etc.) for radiation working with radioactive
protection and with this materials or radiation

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generating devices within the radiation, radiation's

Command. interaction with matter, and
the mathematics necessary to
(6) Providing or securing understand the above subjects;
an acceptable source for all
required initial and annual (b) the biological effects
refresher training for all of radiation;
individuals within the Command.
(c) the instrumentation
c. The RPO will review necessary to detect, monitor,
the USACE Radiation Protection and survey radiation, and the
Program for their Command use of such instrumentation;
annually for content and and
implementation. The RPO will
assure that the quality and (d) radiation safety
timeliness of the program meet techniques and procedures.
the radiation safety standards This training will include the
outlined in this manual. The use of time, distance,
RPO will review work with shielding, engineering
radiation within the Command. controls, and PPE to reduce
The RPO will write and/or exposure to radiation.
review Standing Operating
Procedures to ensure the (3) Practical, hands-on
safety, timeliness, and experience using radiation
compatibility with existing instrumentation, procedures,
radiation regulations. and theory.

d. The RPO will be (4) A working knowledge

technically qualified, meeting of the Army Radiation
the experience, training, and Protection Program and the
education requirements listed USACE Radiation Protection
below: Program, and the record keeping
requirements for work with
(1) A working knowledge radioactive material and
of NRC, EPA, DOE, DOT, and US radiation generating devices
Army regulations pertaining to used within their Command.
radioactive material, radiation
generating devices, 2-5. Laser Safety Officer
radioactive and mixed waste (LSO).
used within their Command.
a. The LSO is a person
(2) Forty hours of formal designated by the USACE Command

training covering: tasked with the supervision of

the Laser Sections of the USACE
(a) the physics of Radiation Protection Program

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for that command. The LSO 2-6. Qualified Health Physics

ensures compliance with current Personnel.
directives for laser safety (EM
385-1-1, TB MED 524, ANSI A qualified Health Physicist
Z136.1, etc.) and with this (HP) is responsible for
manual. assisting the RPO with their
USACE Command Radiation
b. The LSO will review Protection Program, and
the USACE Laser Safety Program reviewing Scopes of Work, Work
for their Command annually for Plans, and/or Site Safety and
content and implementation. Health Plans for all work
The LSO will assure that the involving radiation. Qualified
quality and timeliness of the HPs are personnel:
program meet the laser safety
standards outlined in this a. Meeting the Office of
manual. The LSO will write and Personnel Management Standards
review Standing Operating for the HP Series, GS-1306, and
Procedures to ensure the having three years experience
safety, timeliness, and in work with radiation; or
compatibility with existing
laser regulations. b. Certified as a Health
Physicist by the American Board
c. The LSO will be of Health Physics, or certified
technically qualified, meeting by the American Board of
the experience, training, and Industrial Hygiene (Certified
education requirements listed Industrial Hygienist) and one
below: year experience working with
radiation; or
(1) A working knowledge of
applicable regulations c. Identified as being a
pertaining to lasers used qualified HP by the Director of
within their Command. Army Radiation Protection, Army
Safety Office, or the Army
(2) Practical, hands-on Surgeon General, and having
experience using lasers, laser three years experience in work
procedures, and laser theory. with radiation.

(3) A working knowledge of 2-7. Authorized Users (AUs).

the Army Radiation Protection
Program and the USACE Radiation AUs are individuals who, by
Protection Program, and the their training and experience,
record keeping requirements for are allowed to work,

work with lasers within their unsupervised, with radioactive

Command. material or radiation
generating devices. AUs may

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also directly supervise use of time, distance,

Authorized Users Assistants shielding, engineering
working with radioactive controls, and PPE to reduce
material. All AUs must be exposure to radiation.
approved by the facility RPC,
if one exists. If the facility c. Practical, hands-on
does not require an RPC, the experience using radiation
AUs must be approved by the instrumentation and procedures.
RPO. All AUs must meet the The level of training will be
following training and commensurate with the hazard
experience requirements: presented by the radioactive
material or radiation
a. A working knowledge of generating device; and
applicable regulations
pertaining to radioactive d. A working knowledge of
material, radiation generating the USACE and his or her USACE
devices, and radioactive and Command Radiation Protection
mixed waste with which they may Program, and the record keeping
be working; requirements for the
radioactive material and
b. Unless different radiation generating devices
requirements are stated in the used in their work.
license, authorization or
permit conditions, eight clock e. Instruction in their
hours of formal training rights and their
covering: responsibilities under the
USACE Command NRC license, or
(1) the physics of Army Radiation Authorization
radiation, radiation's (ARA). This includes:
interaction with matter, and
the mathematics necessary to (1) the employer’s duty to
understand the above subjects; provide safe working
conditions;
(2) the biological
effects of radiation; (2) a report of all
radiation exposure to the
(3) the instrumentation individual;
necessary to detect, monitor,
and survey radiation, and the (3) the individual's
use of such instrumentation; responsibility to adhere to the
and NRC’s regulations and the
Commands's radiation material

(4) radiation safety license, or ARA; and

techniques and procedures.
This training will include the (4) the individual's

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responsibility to report any c. Instruction in their

violation or other occurrence rights and their
to the RPO. responsibilities under the
USACE Command NRC license, or
f. Authorized users of ARA. This includes:
portable gauges will also
receive 8 hours training in the (1) the employer’s duty to
safety and use of the gauge provide safe working
from the manufacturer. conditions;

2- 8 . Authorized Users’ (2) a report of all

Assistants (AUAs). radiation exposure to the
individual;
AUAs are individuals allowed to
work with radioactive material (3) the individual's
only under the direct responsibility to adhere to the
supervision of an AU (that is, NRC’s regulations and the
in the physical presence of the Command's radioactive material
AU). All AUAs must be license, or ARA; and
nominated by the AU and
approved by the RPO. AUAs will (4) the individual's
have the training and responsibility to report any
experience described below: violation or other occurrence
to the RPO.
a. A total of at least
four hours instruction in the 2-9. Site Supervisors/
following: Construction Quality Assurance
Personnel.
(1) the health effects
associated with exposure to the a. Individuals working as
radioactive material or site supervisors or
radiation they work with; construction quality assurance
representatives on projects
(2) ways to minimize involving radioactive material
exposure; or radiation generating devices
must be knowledgeable of: the
(3) the purpose and use of principles of radiation
protective equipment used in protection; applicable
their work; and regulations pertaining to
radioactive material and
(4) the applicable radiation generating devices,
regulations to their work.
and the application of these
b. Practical, hands-on principles and regulations to
experience using radiation worker and public health and
instrumentation and procedures. safety at project sites.

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b. Individuals who regulations pertaining to

supervise work or act as radioactive material and
construction quality assurance radiation generating devices,
representatives at sites and the application of these
involving radioactive material principles and regulations to
or radiation generating devices worker and public health and
will have a minimum of eight safety.
hours of radiation safety
training covering the b. Originators and
following: reviewers of plans, projects or
procedures for work at sites
(1) physics of radiation, using radioactive material or
radiation's interaction with radiation generating devices
matter, and the mathematics will have a minimum of eight
necessary to understand the hours of radiation safety
above subjects; training covering the
following:
(2) biological effects of
radiation; (1) physics of radiation,
radiation's interaction with
(3) i n s t r u m e n t a tion matter, and the mathematics
necessary to detect, monitor, necessary to understand the
and survey radiation, and the above subjects;
use of such instrumentation;
and (2) biological effects of
radiation;
(4) radiation safety
techniques and procedures. (3) instrumentation
This training will include the necessary to detect, monitor,
use of time, distance, and survey radiation, and the
shielding, engineering use of such instrumentation;
controls, and PPE to reduce and
exposure to radiation.
(4) radiation safety
2-10. Project/Plan/Procedure techniques and procedures.
Originators and Reviewers. This training will include the
use of time, distance,
a. Individuals who shielding, engineering
originate or review projects, controls, and PPE to reduce
plans, or procedures involving exposure to radiation.

radioactive material or 2-11. Radiation Protection

radiation generating devices Committee (RPC).
must be knowledgeable of the
principles of radiation a. Each Command possessing
protection, the applicable an NRC license or an ARA with a

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condition stating that the authorization for work

licensee shall have an RPC, or involving radiation exposure;
where the Commander deems and,
necessary, shall form an RPC.
At a minimum, the RPC will (3) Evaluating health and
consist of: safety aspects of the
construction and design of
(1) The Commanding Officer facilities and systems and
(CO) or deputy; planned major modifications or
work activities involving
(2) The RPO, who will act radioactive material or
as recorder for all meetings; radiation generating devices.

(3) The Chief; Safety and c. The RPO will furnish

Occupational Health Office; and the installation commander and
RPSO with copies of the
(4) A representative minutes of all RPC meetings,
Authorized User from each group within 30 days of the meeting.
using radioactive material or
radiation generating devices in 2-12. Hazardous, Toxic and
the Command. Radioactive Waste (HTRW),
Center of Expertise (CX).
b. The RPC is accountable
to its USACE Commander. The CO a. The HTRW-CX provides
or his/her deputy chairs the technical assistance to USACE
RPC. The RPC will meet at least headquarters, and design
once each six-month period and districts as requested on all
at the call of the chair. The areas of HTRW and environmental
RPC will continually evaluate remediation. The CX has a staff
radiological work activities, that includes Technical Liaison
and make recommendations to the Managers (TLMs), Chemists,
RPO and management. In Regulatory Specialists,
addition to its Geotechnical, Process, and Cost
responsibilities established Engineers, Risk Assessment,
in the Army Radiation Industrial Hygiene and Health
Protection Program, the RPC Physics personnel.
r e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s
include: b. The HTRW-CX can provide
(1) Annual review of USACE technical assistance to the
Command personnel exposure RPSO as requested, including:

records; (1) licensing,

(2) Establishing criteria (2) inspecting,

for determining the appropriate
level of review and (3) product development,

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(4) and advice and training. Personnel who have

guidance on radiation safety not received refresher training
and protection issues. for over two years may be
required, at the RPO’s
c. The HTRW-CX can provide discretion, to repeat their
support to other Commands on initial training.
radiation safety issues,
including radon, X-ray 2-14. Additional Training -
fluorescence devices for lead Special Applications.
monitoring, etc.
Additional training may be
2-13. Refresher Training. required for work involving
special applications (for
USACE personnel who have example, plutonium, fissile
completed their initial uranium, tritium, and accelera-
training, shall receive annual tor facilities). Personnel
refresher training on the working with special
material described for each applications should consult
person in this chapter. The with the HTRW-CX for additional
refresher training may be training requirements.
comprised of an update of SOPs,
review of dosimetry results, 2-15. All Personnel including
changes in standards or Visitors, at a Radiation Site.
guidance, equipment changes,
and any other pertinent a. Regulations require
radiation safety information that all individuals who are
that needs review. The length likely to receive 100 mrem
of this training is dependent above background in one year
on the specific material being shall be kept informed of the
covered, it does not have to presence of radioactive
equal the time requirements material or radiation in the
needed for initial training. area and shall be instructed
Personnel who have completed annually in the following:
their initial training and any
subsequent refresher training, (1) The health effects
but currently are not and will associated with exposure to the
not be assigned to work radioactive material or
involving radiation, are not radiation;
required to be up-to-date

regarding the refresher (2) Ways to minimize

training requirement. exposure;
Personnel whose refresher
training has lapsed may not (3) The purpose and use of
work with radiation until after protective equipment and survey
completion of refresher instruments used in the area;

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(4) The regulations instruction shall be

applicable to the area. commensurate with the extent of
the hazard in the area.
b. The extent of

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Chapter 3. Introduction to specific nuclide is represented

Radiation. by its chemical symbol with the
atomic mass in a superscript
3-1. Atomic Structure. (for example, 3H, 14C, 238U) or
by spelling out the chemical
a. The atom, which has symbol and using a dash to
been referred to as the indicate atomic mass (for
"fundamental building block of example, radium-222, uranium-
matter," is itself composed of 238). Nuclides with the same
three primary particles: the number of protons (that is,
proton, the neutron, and the same Z) but different number of
electron. Protons and neutrons neutrons (that is, different A)
are relatively massive compared are called isotopes. Isotopes
to electrons and occupy the of a particular element have
dense core of the atom known as nearly identical chemical
the nucleus. Protons are properties, but may have vastly
positively charged while different radiological
neutrons are neutral. The properties.
negatively charged electrons
are found in a cloud 3-2. Radioactive Decay.
surrounding the nucleus.
a. Depending upon the
b. The number of protons ratio of neutrons to protons
within the nucleus defines the within its nucleus, an isotope
atomic number, designated by of a particular element may be
the symbol Z. In an stable or unstable. Over time,
electrically neutral atom (that the nuclei of unstable isotopes
is, one with equal numbers of spontaneously disintegrate or
protons and electrons), Z also transform in a process known as
indicates the number of radioactive decay or
electrons within the atom. The radioactivity. As part of this
number of protons plus neutrons process, various types of
in the nucleus is termed the ionizing radiation may be
atomic mass, symbol A. emitted from the nucleus.
Nuclides which undergo
c. The atomic number of an radioactive decay are called
atom designates its specific radionuclides. This is a
elemental identity. For general term as opposed to the
example, an atom with a Z=l is term radioisotope which is used
hydrogen, an atom with Z=2 is to describe an isotopic
helium, and Z=3 identifies an relationship. For example, 3H,
14
atom of lithium. Atoms C, and 125I are radionuclides.
characterized by a particular Tritium (3H), on the other
atomic number and atomic mass hand, is a radioisotope of
are called nuclides. A hydrogen.

3-1
EM 385-1-80
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b. Many radionuclides such 3-3. Activity.

as radium-226, potassium-40,
thorium-232 and uranium-238 a. The quantity which
occur naturally in the expresses the degree of
environment while others such radioactivity or radiation
as phosphorus-32 or sodium-22 producing potential of a given
are primarily produced in amount of radioactive material
nuclear reactors or particle is activity. The activity may
accelerators. Any material be considered the rate at which
which contains measurable a number of atoms of a material
amounts of one or more disintegrate, or transform from
radionuclides is referred to as one isotope to another which is
a radioactive material. As any accompanied by the emission of
handful of soil or plant radiation. The most commonly
material will contain some used unit of activity is the
measurable amount of curie (Ci) which was originally
radionuclides, we must defined as that amount of any
distinguish between background radioactive material which
radioactive materials and man- disintegrates at the same rate
made or enhanced concentrations as one gram of pure radium.
of radioactive materials. That is, 3.7 x 1010
disintegrations per second
c. Uranium, thorium and (dps). A millicurie (mCi) =
their progeny, including radium 3.7 x 107 dps. A microcurie
and radon are Naturally (µCi) = 3.7 x 104 dps. A
Occurring Radioactive Materials picocurie (pCi) = 3.7 x 10-2
(NORM). Along with an isotope dps.
of potassium (K-40) these make
up the majority of NORM b. The Systeme
materials and are found in most Internationale (SI) unit of
all soil and water, and are activity is the becquerel (Bq)
even found in significant which equals 1 dps. Systeme
quantities within the human Internationale units, such as
body. meters and grams, are in use
throughout the rest of the
d. Another group of world. Only the United States
radionuclides are referred to still uses units of curies for
as transuranics. These are activity.
merely elements with Z numbers
greater than that of uranium c. The activity of a given
(92). All transuranics are amount of radioactive material
radioactive. Transuranics are is not directly related to the
produced in spent fuel mass of the material. For
reprocessing facilities and example, two one-curie sources
nuclear weapons detonations. containing cesium-137 might

3-2
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have very different masses, N=Noe-þt Eq. 1

depending upon the relative
proportion of non-radioactive Where N equals the number of
atoms present in each source. atoms present at time t, No is
for example, 1 curie of pure the initial number of
cesium-137 would weigh 87 radioactive atoms present at
grams, and 50 billion kilograms time 0, þ is the decay constant
(100 million tons) of seawater for the radionuclide present,
would contain about 1 curie of (this can be calculated from
Cs-137 from fallout. the half-life of the material
as shown below),and e is the
3-4. Decay Law. base of the natural logarithms.
Table 3-1 indicates half-lives
a. The rate at which a and other characteristics of
quantity of radioactive several common radionuclides.
material decays is proportional
to the number of radioactive b. Since activity A is
atoms present. This can be proportional to N, the equation
expressed by the equation is often expressed as:
(Eq.):
A = Aoe-þt Eq. 2

Table 3-1. Characteristics of Selected Radionuclides

Radionuclide Half-life (Type and max. energy in MeV)

hydrogen-3 12.3 years þ, 0.0186

carbon-14 5370 years þ, 0.155
phosphorus-32 14.3 days þ, 1.71
sulfur-35 87.2 days þ, 0.167
potassium-40 1.3E09 years þ, 1.310
iodine-125 59.7 days þ/X, 0.035
cesium-137 30.2 years þ/X, 0.51/.662
thorium-232 1.4E10 years þ/X, 4.081
uranium-238 4.4E09 years þ/X, 4.147
americium-241 432 years þ/X, 5.49/.059

þ-alpha particle, þ-beta particle, X-gamma or X-ray

c. Half-life. When half half. The time required for the

of the radioactive atoms in a activity of a quantity of a
given quantity of radioactive particular radionuclide to
material have decayed, the decrease to half its original
activity is also decreased by value is called the half-life

3-3
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(T1/2) for the radionuclide. of determining the activity of

a radionuclide remaining after
d. It can be shown a given time is through the use
mathematically that the of the equation:
half-life (T1/2) of a particular
n
radionuclide is related to the f = (½) Eq. 4
decay constant (þ) as follows:
where f equals the fraction of
Eq. 3 the initial activity remaining
after time t and n equals the
number of half-lives which have
elapsed. In Example 1 above,
Substituting this value of þ
into Equation 2, one gets: n = t/T1/2

n = 10/14.3

= 0.69

f = (½)0.69
e. Example 1: You have 5
mCi of phosphorus-32 (T1/2 = = 0.62
14.3 days). How much activity
will remain after 10 days? A = fAo

A = ? = (0.62)(5)

Ao = 5 mCi = 3.10 mCi

t = 10 d Both methods may be used to

calculate activities at a prior
þ = .693 date, that is "t" in the
14.3 d equations may be negative.

A = Aoe-þt g. The activity of any

radionuclide is reduced to less
than 1% after 7 half-lives and
less than 0.1% after 10 half-
lives.

A = 3.1 mCi 3-5. Types of Ionizing

Radiation.
f. An alternative method
a. Ionizing radiation may
be electromagnetic or may

3-4

consist of high speed subatomic
particles of various masses and
charges.
(1) Alpha Particles.
Certain radionuclides of high
atomic mass (for example,,
Ra-226, U-238, Pu-239) decay by
the emission of alpha
particles. These are tightly
bound units of two neutrons and
two protons each (a helium
nucleus). Emission of an alpha
particle results in a decrease
of two units of atomic number
(Z) and four units of atomic
mass (A). Alpha particles are
emitted with discrete energies
characteristic of the
particular transformation from
which they originate.
(2) Beta Particles.
A nucleus with a slightly
unstable ratio of neutrons to
protons may decay by changing a
neutron into a proton, or a
proton into a neutron through
the emission of either a high
speed electron or positron
called a beta particle. This
results in a net change of one
unit of atomic number (Z), up
one for a beta minus and down
one for a beta plus. The beta
particles emitted by a specific
radionuclide range in energy
from near zero to up to a
maximum value characteristic of
the particular transformation.
3-5
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
(3) Gamma-rays.
(a) A nucleus which has
disintegrated is left in an
excited state with more energy
than it can contain. This
excited nucleus may emit one or
more photons (that is,
particles of electromagnetic
radiation) of discrete energies
to rid itself of this energy.
The emission of these gamma-
rays does not alter the number
of protons or neutrons in the
nucleus but instead has the
effect of moving the nucleus
from a higher to a lower energy
state. Gamma-ray emission
frequently follows beta decay,
alpha decay, and other nuclear
decay processes.
(b) X-rays and gamma-rays
are electromagnetic radiation,
as is visible light. The
frequencies of X- and gamma
rays are much higher than that
of visible light and so each
carries much more energy.
Gamma- and X-rays cannot be
completely shielded. They can
be attenuated by shielding but
not stopped completely. A gamma
emitting nuclide may yield
multiple gamma- and X-rays,
each with its own discrete
energy. It is possible to
identify a gamma emitting
nuclide by its spectrum.
(4) X-rays.
X-rays are also part of the
electromagnetic spectrum and
are indistinguishable from
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

gamma-rays. The only travel further in matter. When

difference is their source neutrons are sufficiently
(that is, orbital electrons slowed down in matter
rather than the nucleus). X- (thermalized) they are absorbed
rays are emitted with discrete by matter with an accompanying
energies by electrons as they burst of gamma radiation. The
shift orbits and lose energy nature of production of the
following certain types of neutron determines whether it
nuclear excitement or decay is emitted in a spectrum (as in
processes. fission) or at a discrete
energy (as from Am-Be sources).
(5) Bremsstrahlung
radiation. (b) A single radioactive
decay event may generate a
When a charged particle passes large number of radiations as
near the nucleus of an atom, illustrated in Table 3-2, for
it deviates from its original example:
path and is slowed down by the
coulombic interaction with the Table 3-2
nucleus. When this occurs, the I-125 Radiations
charged particle will emit a RADIATION ENERGY(keV) DECAY%
photon to balance the energy. Gamma 35 6.7
These photons are called Ka X-ray 27.4 114
bremsstrahlung radiation. Kb X-ray 31 25.6
Bremsstrahlung radiation only L X-ray 3.9 12
becomes a significant source of K Conv.
exposure from high energy beta Elec. 3.7 80
particles. The amount of L Conv.
bremsstrahlung radiation Elec. 31 11.8
emitted is proportional to the M+ Conv.
Z number of the nucleus the Elec. 35 2.5
beta interacted with, and the K Auger
energy of the beta particle. Elec. 23 20
L Auger
(6) Neutrons. Elec. 3-4 160

(a) Neutrons are uncharged KeV: kiloelectron volt

particles released during
fission of heavy atoms 3-6. Interaction of Radiation
(uranium) or released from some With Matter.
non-radioactive material after
bombardment by alpha particles a. Excitation/Ionization.
(americium-beryllium [Am-Be]
sources). Because neutrons are The various types of radiation
uncharged particles, they (for example, alpha particles,

3-6
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30 May 97

beta particles, and gamma- stopped. In air, alpha

rays) impart their energy to particles travel only a few
matter primarily through centimeters, while in tissue,
excitation and ionization of only fractions of a millimeter.
orbital electrons. The term For example, an alpha particle
"excitation" is used to cannot penetrate the dead cell
describe an interaction where layer of human skin.
electrons acquire energy from a
passing charged particle but (2) Beta particles have a
are not removed completely from much lower specific ionization
their atom. Excited electrons than alpha particles and a
may subsequently emit energy in considerably longer range. The
the form of X-rays during the relatively energetic beta's
process of returning to a lower from P-32 have a range of 6
energy state. The term meters in air or 8 millimeters
"ionization" refers to the in tissue. The low-energy
complete removal of an electron beta's from H-3, on the other
from an atom following the hand, are stopped by only 6
transfer of energy from a millimeters of air or 5
passing charged particle. Any micrometers of tissue.
type of radiation having
sufficient energy to cause (3) Gamma- and X-rays are
ionization is referred to as referred to as indirectly
ionizing radiation. In ionizing radiation since,
describing the intensity of having no charge, they do not
ionization, the term "specific directly apply impulses to
ionization" is often used. orbital electrons as do alpha
This is defined as the number and beta particles. A gamma-
of ion pairs formed per unit ray or X-ray instead proceeds
path length for a given type of through matter until it
radiation. undergoes a chance interaction
with a particle. If the
b. Characteristics of particle is an electron, it may
Different Types of Ionizing receive enough energy to be
Radiation. ionized whereupon it causes
further ionization by direct
(1) Alpha particles have a interactions with other
high specific ionization and a electrons. The net result is
relatively short range. Alpha that indirectly ionizing
particles are massive and carry particles liberate directly
a double positive charge. This ionizing particles deep inside
combination allows alpha a medium, much deeper than the
particles to carry a large directly ionizing particles
amount of energy but to easily could reach from the outside.
transfer that energy and be Because gamma rays and X-rays

3-7
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undergo only chance encounters Stochastic effects are those

with matter, they do not have a that occur by chance.
finite range. In other words, Stochastic effects caused by
a given gamma ray has a ionizing radiation consist
definite probability of passing primarily of genetic effects
through any medium of any and cancer. As the dose to an
depth. individual increases, the
probability that cancer or a
(4) Neutrons are also genetic effect will occur also
indirectly ionizing. When increases. However, at no
striking massive particles time, even for high doses, is
such as the nuclei of atoms, it certain that cancer or
the neutron undergoes elastic genetic damage will result.
scattering losing very little Similarly, for stochastic
energy to the target nucleus. effects, there is no threshold
But when a neutron strikes an dose below which it is
hydrogen nuclei (a single relatively certain that an
proton, about the same mass as adverse effect cannot occur.
a neutron) the energy is shared In addition, because stochastic
nearly equally between the effects can occur in unexposed
neutron and the proton individuals, one can never be
resulting in a loss of about certain that the occurrence of
half of the neutron's energy cancer or genetic damage in an
before the interaction. The exposed individual is due to
proton now is a charged, radiation.
directly ionizing particle
moving through matter until all b. Deterministic
of its energy is transferred to (Non-Stochastic) Effects.
the matter.
(1) Unlike stochastic
3-7. Human Health Effects. effects, deterministic effects
are characterized by a
The effects of ionizing threshold dose below which they
radiation described at the do not occur. In addition, the
level of the human organism can magnitude of the effect is
be divided broadly into two directly proportional to the
categories: stochastic (effects size of the dose. Furthermore,
that occur by chance) or for deterministic effects,
deterministic (non-stochastic) there is a clear causal
effects (characterized by a relationship between radiation
threshold dose below which exposure and the effect.
effects do not occur). Examples of deterministic
effects include sterility,
a. Stochastic Effects. erythema (skin reddening), and
cataract formation. Each of

3-8

these effects differs from the
other in both its threshold
dose and in the time over which
this dose must be received to
cause the effect (that is acute
vs. chronic exposure).
(2) The range of
deterministic effects resulting
from an acute exposure to
radiation is collectively
termed "radiation syndrome."
This syndrome may be subdivided
as follows:
(a) hemopoietic syndrome -
characterized by depression or
destruction of bone marrow
activity with resultant anemia
and susceptibility to infection
(whole body dose of about 200
rads);
(b) gastrointestinal
syndrome - characterized by
destruction of the intestinal
epithelium with resultant
nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
(whole body dose of about 1000
rads); and
(c) central nervous system
syndrome - direct damage to
nervous system with loss of
consciousness within minutes
(whole body doses in excess of
2000 rads).
(3) The LD5O (that is, dose
that would cause death in half
of the exposed population) for
acute whole body exposure to
radiation in humans is about
450 rads.
3-9
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
3-8. Determinants of Dose.
The effect of ionizing
radiation upon humans or other
organisms is directly dependent
upon the size of the dose
received and the rate at which
the dose is received (for
example, 100 mrem in an hour
versus 100 mrem in a year).
The dose, in turn, is dependent
upon a number of factors
including the strength of the
source, the distance from the
source to the affected tissue,
and the time over which the
tissue is irradiated. The
manner in which these factors
operate to determine the dose
from a given exposure differs
significantly for exposures
which are "external" (that is,
resulting from a radiation
source located outside the
body) and those which are
"internal" (that is, resulting
from a radiation source located
within the body).
a. External Exposures.
(1) Exposure to sources of
radiation located outside the
body are of concern primarily
for sources emitting gamma-
rays, X-rays, or high energy
beta particles. External
exposures from radioactive
sources which emit alpha or
beta particles with energies
less than 70 keV are not
significant since these
radiations do not penetrate the
dead outer cell layer of the
skin.
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

(2) As with all radiation (1) Exposure to ionizing

exposures, the size of the dose
resulting from an external
exposure is a function of:
(a) the strength of the
source;
(b) the distance from the
source to the tissue being
irradiated; and
radiation from sources located
within the body are of concern
for sources emitting any and
all types of ionizing
radiation. Of particular
concern are internally emitted
alpha particles which cause
significant damage to tissue
when depositing their energy
along highly localized paths.

(c) the duration of the (2) In contrast to the

exposure. situation for external
exposures, the source-to-tissue
In contrast to the situation distance, exposure duration,
for internal exposures, and source strength cannot be
however, these factors can be altered for internal radiation
altered (either intentionally sources. Instead, once a
or inadvertently) for a quantity of radioactive
particular external exposure material is taken up by the
situation, changing the dose body (for example, by
received. inhalation, ingestion, or
absorption) an individual is
(3) The effectiveness of a "committed" to the dose which
given dose of external will result from the quantities
radiation in causing biological of the particular
damage is dependent upon the radionuclide(s) involved. Some
portion of the body irradiated. medical treatments are
For example, because of available to increase excretion
differences in the rates of certain radionuclides
radiosensitivity of constituent in some circumstances and
tissues, the hand is far less thereby reduce the committed
likely to suffer biological effective dose equivalent.
damage from a given dose of
radiation than are the gonads. (3) In general,
Similarly, a given dose to the radionuclides taken up by the
whole body has a greater body do not distribute equally
potential for causing adverse throughout the body's tissues.
health effects than does the Often, a radionuclide
same dose to only a portion of concentrates in an organ. For
the body. example, I-131 and I-125, both
isotopes of iodine, concentrate
b. Internal Exposures. in the thyroid, radium and
plutonium in the bone, and

3-10
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

uranium in the kidney. elements found in soils

throughout the world. Natural
(4) The dose committed to background and the associated
a particular organ or portion dose it imparts varies
of the body depends, in part, considerably from one location
upon the time over which these to another in the U.S. and
areas of the body are ranges from 5 to 80
irradiated by the radionuclide. microroentgens per hour. It is
This, in turn, is determined by estimated that the average
the radionuclide's physical and total effective dose equivalent
biological half-lives (that is, from natural background in the
the effective half-life). The U.S. is about 250
biological half-life of a mrem/person/year. This dose
radionuclide is defined as the equivalent is composed of about
time required for one half of a 166 mrem/person/year from
given amount of radionuclide to radon, 34 mrem/person/year from
be removed from the body by natural radioactive material
normal biological turnover (in within the body, 25
urine, feces, sweat). mrem/person/year from cosmic
radiation, and 25
3-9. Background Radiation. mrem/person/year from
terrestrial radiation.
a. All individuals are
continuously exposed to b. The primary source of
ionizing radiation from various man-made non-occupational
natural sources. These sources exposures is medical
include cosmic radiation and irradiation, particularly
naturally occurring diagnostic procedures (for
radionuclides within the example, X-ray and nuclear
environment and within the medicine examinations). Such
human body. The radiation procedures, on average,
levels resulting from natural contribute an additional 100
sources are collectively mrem/person/year in the U.S.
referred to as "natural All other sources of man-made,
background". Naturally non-occupational exposures such
occurring radioactive material as nuclear weapons fallout,
(NORM) can be detected in nuclear power plant operations,
virtually everything. Natural and the use of radiation
potassium contains about 0.01% sources in industry and
potassium-40, a powerful beta universities contribute an
emitter with an associated average of less than one
gamma ray. Uranium, thorium mrem/person/year in the U.S.
and their associated decay
products, which are also
radioactive, are common trace

3-11
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30 May 97
3-10. Radiation Quantities.
a. Exposure (roentgen).
Exposure is a measure of the
strength of a radiation field
at some point. It is usually
defined as the amount of charge
(that is, sum of all ions of
one sign) produced in a unit
mass of air when the
interacting photons are
completely absorbed in that
mass. The most commonly used
unit of exposure is the
roentgen (R) which is defined
as that amount of X or gamma
radiation which produces 2.58E-
4 coulombs per kilogram (C/kg)
of dry air. In cases where
exposure is to be expressed as
a rate, the unit would be
roentgens per hour (R/hr) or
more commonly, milliroentgen
per hour (mR/hr). A roentgen
refers only to the ability of
PHOTONS to ionize AIR.
Roentgens are very limited in
their use. They apply only to
photons, only in air, and only
with an energy under 3 mega-
electron-volts (MeV). Because
of their limited use, no new
unit in the SI system has been
chosen to replace it.
b. Absorbed Dose (rad).
Whereas exposure is defined for
air, the absorbed dose is the
amount of energy imparted by
radiation to a given mass of
any material. The most common
unit of absorbed dose is the
rad (Radiation Absorbed Dose)
3-12
which is defined as a dose of
0.01 joule per kilogram of the
material in question. One
common conversion factor is
from roentgens (in air) to rads
in tissue. An exposure of 1 R
typically gives an absorbed
dose of 0.97 rad to tissue.
Absorbed dose may also be
expressed as a rate with units
of rad/hr or millirad/hr. The
SI unit of absorbed dose is the
gray (Gy) which is equal to 1
joule/kg which is equal to 100
rads.
c. Dose Equivalent (rem).
(1) Although the
biological effects of radiation
are dependent upon the absorbed
dose, some types of particles
produce greater effects than
others for the same amount of
energy imparted. For example,
for equal absorbed doses, alpha
particles may be 20 times as
damaging as beta particles. In
order to account for these
variations when describing
human health risk from
radiation exposure, the
quantity, dose equivalent, is
used. This is the absorbed
dose multiplied by certain
"quality" and "modifying"
factors (Q) indicative of the
relative biological-damage
potential of the particular
type of radiation. The unit of
dose equivalent is the rem
(Radiation Equivalent in Man)
or, more commonly, millirem.
For beta, gamma- or X-ray
exposures, the numerical value
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

of the rem is essentially equal (DDE).

to that of the rad. The SI
Unit of dose equivalent is the (1) The DDE is the dose to
sievert (Sv) which is equal to: the whole body tissue at 1
1 Gy X Q; where Q is the centimeter (cm) beneath the
quality factor. Q values are skin surface from external
listed in Table 3-3 (Note that radiation. The DDE can be
there is quite a bit of considered to be the
discrepancy between different contribution to the total
agency's values). effective dose equivalent
(TEDE) from external radiation.
Table 3-3
Q Values (2) Example: A worker is
Radiation Type NRC ICRU NCRP exposed to 2 R of penetrating
X & Gamma Rays 1 1 1 gamma radiation. What is
Beta Particles his/her DDE?
(Except 3H) 1 1 1
Tritium Betas 1 2 1 DDE = exposure x 0.97 rad/R x Q
Thermal Neutrons 2 - 5 Q for gamma radiation = 1
Fast Neutrons 10 25 20 DDE = 2 R x 0.97 rad/R x 1 =
Alpha particles 20 25 20 1.94 rem.

(2) Example: An individual e. Effective Dose

working at a Corps lab with I- Equivalent (EDE).
125 measures the exposure at a
work station as 2 mR/hr. The (1) Multiplying the dose
NRC licenses and regulates the equivalent by a weighting
lab. What is the dose factor that relates to the
equivalent to a person sitting radiosensitivity of each organ
at the work station for six and summing these weighted dose
hours? equivalents produces the
effective dose equivalent.
DE = Exposure x 0.97 rad/R x Q Weighting Factors are shown in
Table 3-4. The EDE is used in
Exposure = Exposure Rate x dosimetry to account for
Time different organs having
different sensitivities to
Q for gamma-radiation = 1 radiation.

DE = Rate x Time x 0.97 x Q Table 3-4

Weighting Factors
DE = 2 mR/hr x 6 hr X 0.97 Gonads 0.25
rad/R x 1 = 11.64 mrem. Breast 0.15
Lung 0.12
d. Deep Dose Equivalent Thyroid 0.03

3-13
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Bone 0.03 intake of a radionuclide over

Marrow 0.12 the 50-year period following
Remainder 0.30 the intake. Radioactive
material inside the body will
(2) Example: A person is act according to its chemical
exposed to 3 mR/hr of gamma- form and be deposited in the
radiation to the whole body for body, emitting radiation over
six hours. What is the the entire time they are in the
effective dose equivalent to body. For purposes of dose
each organ and to the whole recording, the entire dose
body? equivalent organs will receive
over the 50-years following the
EDE = þ (DE x WF) intake of the radionuclides is
DE = R x Q assigned to the individual
R = Rate x Time during the year that the
Q for gamma = 1 radionuclide intake took place.
R = 3 mR/hr x 6 hrs. = 18 mR The CDE is usually derived from
18 mR x 0.97 mrad/mR = 17 mrad a table or computer program, as
DE = 17 mrad x 1 = 17 mrem the value is dependent upon the
EDE for: radionuclide, its chemical
Gonads = 17 mrem x 0.25 = form, the distribution of that
4.25 mrem chemical within the body, the
Breast = 17 mrem x 0.15 = mass of the organs and the
2.55 mrem biological clearance time for
Lung = 17 mrem x 0.12 = the chemical. Two common
2.04 mrem databases are MIRD and DOSEFACT
Thyroid = 17 mrem x 0.03 = that contain CDEs for various
0.51 mrem radionuclides. The CDE can be
Bone = 17 mrem x 0.03 = calculated from the data in 10
0.51 mrem CFR 20 Appendix B, or from the
Marrow = 17 mrem x 0.12 = EPA Federal Guidance Report #11
2.04 mrem if there is only one target
Remainder = 17 mrem x 0.30 = organ, otherwise the dose must
5.10 mrem be calculated from the
--------- contribution of the
EDE for whole body: 17 mrem. radionuclide in every organ to
(note that the weighting the organ of interest.
factor for the whole body is
one) (2) Example: An individual
ingests 40 microcuries of I-
f. Committed Dose 131. What is the CDE? Because
Equivalent (CDE). the dose to the thyroid from
iodine-131 is 100 times greater
(1) The CDE is the dose than the dose to any other
equivalent to organs from the organ we can assume that the

3-14
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

thyroid is the only organ (1) Multiplying the

receiving a significant dose committed dose equivalent by a
and can use the 10 CFR 20 weighting factor that relates
approach, from 10 CFR 20, to the radiosensitivity of each
Appendix B. The non-stochastic organ and summing these
(deterministic) Annual Limit of weighted dose equivalents
Intake (ALI) is 30 µCi. A non- produces the committed
stochastic ALI is the activity effective dose equivalent. The
of a radionuclide that, if CEDE can be considered to be
ingested or inhaled, will give the contribution from internal
the organ a committed dose radionuclides to the TEDE.
equivalent of 50 rem.
DE/ALI x 50 rem = committed (2) Example: A male worker
dose equivalent to the organ. inhales 10 µCi Co-60. What is
40 µCi/30 µCi x 50 rem = 67 his CEDE?
rem.
Using the CDE above for Co-60,
(3) An example of the CDE and the weighting factors
derived from a table is above, we get the following:
presented in Table 3-5 for EDE for:
inhalation of Co-60.
Gonads = 10 µCi x 6.29E+00
g. Committed Effective mrem/µCi x 0.25 =
Dose Equivalent (CEDE). 15.73 mrem

Table 3-5
Inhalation Coefficients (H50,T) in mrem/µCi

Co-60 (T½ = 5.271 year) Class Y F1 = 5.0E-02 AMAD = 1.0 µm

organ (H50,T) organ (H50,T)

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Adrenals 1.11E+02 Lungs 1.27E+03
Bladder Wall 1.09E+01 Ovaries 1.76E+01
Bone surface 4.99E+01 Pancreas 1.17E+02
Breast 6.80E+01 Red Marrow 6.36E+01
Stomach Wall 1.01E+02 Skin 3.77E+01
Small Intestine 2.60E+01 Spleen 9.99E+01
Up lg Intestine 3.59E+01 Testes 6.29E+00
Lw lg intestine 2.93E+01 Thymus 2.12E+02
Kidneys 5.77E+01 Thyroid 5.99E+01
Liver 1.23E+02 Uterus 1.70E+01
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Hrem,50 = 1.33E+02 HE,50 = 2.19E+02
ICRP 30 ALI = 30 µCi

3-15
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Breast= 10 µCi x 6.80E+01 TEDE = DDE + CEDE

mrem/µCi x 0.15 = From Example d his DDE is 1.74
102.00 mrem rem = 1,740.00 mrem
From example g his CEDE is
Lung = 10 µCi x 1.27E+03 2,149.00 mrem
mrem/µCi x 0.12 = -------------
1524.00 mrem TEDE 3,889.00 mrem

Thyroid= 10 µCi x 5.99E+01 3-11. Biological Effects of

mrem/µCi x 0.03 = Ionizing Radiation.
17.97 mrem
Biological effects of radiation
Bone = 10 µCi x 4.99E+01 have been studied at different
mrem/µCi x 0.03 = levels; the effects on cells,
14.97 mrem the effects on tissues (groups
of cells), the effects on
Marrow = 10 µCi x 6.36E+01 organisms, and the effects on
mrem/µCi x 0.12 = humans. Some of the major
76.32 mrem points are reviewed below.

Remainder = 10 µCi x 1.33E+02 a. Cellular Effects.

mrem/µCi x 0.30 =
399.00 mrem (1) The energy deposited
----------- by ionizing radiation as it
CEDE for whole body: 2149 mrem interacts with matter may
result in the breaking of
h. Total Effective Dose chemical bonds. If the
Equivalent (TEDE). irradiated matter is living
tissue, such chemical changes
(1) The sum of the DDE and may result in altered structure
the CEDE. Dose from internal or function of constituent
radiation is no different from cells.
dose from external radiation.
Regulations are designed to (2) Because the cell is
limit TEDE to the whole body to composed mostly of water, less
5 rem per year, and to limit than 20% of the energy
the sum of the DDE and the CDE deposited by ionizing radiation
to any one organ to 50 rem per is absorbed directly by
year. macromolecules (for example,
Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA).
(2) Example: The person More than 80% of the energy
working in example d. also deposited in the cell is
inhales 10 µCi Co-60 as in absorbed by water molecules
example g. What is his or her where it may form highly
TEDE? reactive free radicals.

3-16
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30 May 97

(3) These radicals and of the DNA within the nucleus

their products (for example, in controlling all cellular
hydrogen peroxide) may initiate function. Damage to the DNA
numerous chemical reactions molecule may prevent it from
which can result in damage to providing the proper template
macromolecules and/or for the production of
corresponding damage to cells. additional DNA or Ribonucleic
Damage produced within a cell Acid (RNA). In general, it has
by the radiation induced been found that cell
formation of free radicals is radiosensitivity is directly
described as being by indirect proportional to reproductive
action of radiation. capacity and inversely
proportional to the degree of
(4) The cell nucleus is cell differentiation. Table 3-
the major site of radiation 6 presents a list of cells
damage leading to cell death. which generally follow this
This is due to the principle.
importance

Table 3-6. List of Cells in Order of Decreasing Radiosensitivity

Very Moderately Relatively
radiosensitive radiosensitive radioresistant
Vegetative Blood vessels and Fixed postmitotic
intermitotic cells, interconnective cells,
mature lymphocytes, tissue, fibrocytes,
erythroblasts and osteoblasts, chondrocytes,
spermatogonia, granulocytes and muscle and nerve
basal cells, osteocytes, cells.
endothelial cells. sperm erythrocytes.

(5) The considerable (6) The relatively high

variation in the radiosensitivity of tissues
radiosensitivities of various consisting of undifferentiated,
tissues is due, in part, to the rapidly dividing cells suggest
differences in the that, at the level of the human
sensitivities of the cells that organism, a greater potential
compose the tissues. Also exists for damage to the fetus
important in determining tissue or young child than to an adult
sensitivity are such factors as for a given dose. This has, in
the state of nourishment of the fact, been observed in the form
cells, interactions between of increased birth defects
various cell types within the following irradiation of the
tissue, and the ability of the fetus and an increased
tissue to repair itself. incidence of certain cancers in

3-17
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

individuals who were irradiated minimized by good design,

as children. planning the operation,
performing dry-runs to practice
3-12. Ways to Minimize the operation, and contentious
Exposure. work practices.

a. There are three factors (2) Distance.

used to minimize external
exposure to radiation; time, Dose is inversely proportional
distance, and shielding. to the distance from the
Projects involving the use of radiation source. The further
radioactive material or away, the less dose received.
radiation generating devices Dose is related to distance by
need to be designed so as to the equation:
minimize exposure to external
radiation, and accomplish the
project. A proper balance of
ways to minimize exposure and
the needs of the project need
to be considered from the Where:
earliest design stages. For I1 = Intensity at Distance 1,
example, if a lead apron D1 = Distance 1,
protects a worker from the I2 = Intensity at Distance 2,
radiation, but slows him or her D2 = Distance 2.
down so that it requires three
times as many hours to complete Doubling the distance from a
the job, the exposure is not source will quarter the dose
minimized. Additionally, (see Figure 3-1).
placing a worker in full
protective equipment and
subjecting the worker to the
accompanying physical stresses
to prevent a total exposure of
a few millirems does not serve
the needs of the project or of
the worker.

(1) Time.

Dose is directly proportional

to the time a individual is
exposed to the radiation. Less Figure 3-1.
time of exposure means less
dose. Time spent around a Distance from a radiation
source of radiation can be source can be maximized by good

3-18
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

design, planning the operation, Cost considerations often come

using extended handling tools into play. The shielding
or remote handling tools as provided by a few centimeters
necessary, and by of lead may be equaled by the
conscienscious work practices. shielding provided by a few
inches of concrete, and the
(3) Shielding price may be lower for the
concrete. Table 3-7 lists half-
(a) Dose can be reduced by value layers for several
the use of shielding. Virtually materials at different gamma
any material will shield ray energies.
against radiation but its
shielding effectiveness depends (b) Shielding can be used
on many factors. These factors to reduce dose by placing
include material density, radiation sources in shields
material thickness and type, when not in use, placing
the radiation energy, and the shielding between the source
geometry of the radiation being and yourself, good design of
shielded. Consult a qualified the operation, and contentious
expert to determine shielding work practices.
requirements.

Table 3-7
Half-value layers (cm) for gamma rays
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Eþ (MeV) Lead Concrete Water Iron Air
-----------------------------------------------------------------
0.1 0.4 3.0 7.0 0.3 3622
0.5 0.7 7.0 15.0 1.6 6175
1.0 1.2 8.5 17.0 2.0 8428
1.5 1.3 10.0 18.5 2.2 10389
-----------------------------------------------------------------

b. Personnel Protective may include such items as:

Equipment (PPE).
(1) full-face, air-
PPE is a last resort method for purifying respirators (APRs)
radiation exposure control. with appropriate cartridges;
When engineering controls using
time, distance, shielding, dust (2) self-contained
suppression, or contamination breathing apparatus (SCBA);
control cannot adequately lower
the exposure to ionizing (3) supplied air; and
radiation or radioactive
material, PPE may be used. PPE

3-19
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

(4) shielded gloves, e. Cartridges for

aprons, and other clothing. radionuclides must be selected
with consideration for the
c. Selection of PPE is radionuclide's chemical form.
based on unique conditions at Respirator filters approved for
each job site. The PPE may be use under 30 CFR 11 may still
required in the following be used until July 1998. By
circumstances: that time, all respirator
cartridges must be classified
(1) when handling according to the new National
contaminated materials with Institute of Occupational
removable contamination; Safety and Health (NIOSH)
modular approach described in
(2) when working in 42 CFR 84. With the new
contamination, high modular approach to respirator
contamination, and Airborne certification, cartridges
Radioactivity Areas; or approved by NIOSH, will no
longer be labeled for
(3) when required by an dusts/mists/fumes/radioactive
NRC license or ARA. dusts. The color coding has
also changed. Dust/mist/fume
d. Specific PPE filters will now be labeled as
requirements for each job site N95, N99, N100, R95, R99, R100,
should be obtained from USACE P95, P99, and P100. The number
or a USACE contractor HP or relates to the filtering
industrial hygienist. efficiency, and the letter
Respirator use must meet the relates to the type of aerosol,
requirements of 29 CFR 1910 or with P100 being the most
1926 and USACE respiratory protective over the widest
protection requirements of EM range of aerosol types.
385-1-1. The respiratory Dust/mist and dust/mist/fume
protection factors for cartridges do not provide any
different types of respirators protection against radioactive
are listed in 10 CFR 20, vapors or radioactive noble
Appendix A. gases. Consider the use of
combination cartridges to
*NOTE* Half-face APRs will not control dust and vapors, and
be used for any USACE work activated charcoal cartridges
involving radioactive material, to control noble gasses. When
unless there is no other selecting APRs, consider the
practical solution. Any buildup of radioactive material
special use of half-face APRs in the cartridges. A high
will first be approved by the concentration of gamma
RPO. radiation-emitting particles or
vapor in cartridges may produce

3-20
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

a radiation field positioned 3-14. Monitoring and Surveying

very close to the face and Equipment.
chest of the person wearing the
APR. a. Anytime personnel are
working with radioactive
f. Any PPE will slow down material or radiation
the working speed of personnel, generating devices, radiation
and extend the time needed for monitoring procedures will be
entry and exit. The increase used. Equipment needs to be
in dose due to the increased selected that can detect the
time in the radiation field radiation or radiations in
must be weighed against the question. Table 3-8 is a
radiation dose reduction caused general guide to types of
by the use of PPE. The use of detectors and the range and
whole body personal protective types of radiations they
equipment, particularly the detect. Some radiations are
impermeable type can cause heat extremely difficult to detect
stress problems. A heat stress in the field. Weak beta
monitoring program shall be emitters such as tritium
implemented to evaluate and (maximum beta energy of 18.6
control heat stress hazards kilo-electron volts (keV) and
whenever PPE is used. weak gamma emitters such as
iodine-125 present monitoring
3-13. Standing Operating problems. Prior to work
Procedures. involving radioactive
materials, consult the RPO and
Where a project or operation HP to select appropriate
uses radiation in a method that instruments and procedures for
is amenable to written standing the detection and
operating procedures (SOPs), quantification of the specific
the RPO overseeing the radiation in question.
operations shall assist in the
preparation of SOPs. Most b. Radiation Monitoring
manufacturers of instruments Instruments.
and articles containing
radioactive material or that (1) Gas-filled Detectors.
generate ionizing radiation,
include SOPs in their operating Gas-filled detectors consist of
manuals. The RPO shall review a gas-filled chamber with a
these SOPs and ensure that they voltage applied such that a
meet USACE safety guidelines central wire becomes the anode
outlined in this manual and the and the chamber wall the
requirements of ER 385-1-80 and cathode. Any ion pairs
EM 385-1-1 before use. produced by radiation
interacting with the chamber

3-21
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
move to the electrodes where
they are collected to form an
electronic pulse which can be
measured and quantified.
Depending upon the voltage
applied to the chamber, the
detector may be considered an
ionization chamber, a detector does not actually
proportional counter or a "measure" exposure rate.
Geiger-Muller (GM) detector.
(a) An ionization chamber
is a gas-filled chamber
containing an anode and a
cathode. As radiation passes
through the gas it ionizes some
of the gas molecules. These
ion pairs are attracted to the
anode and cathode and create an
electrical pulse. The pulses
are counted and integrated and
displayed on the meter face in
roentgens per hour. Because of
its design, an ionization
chamber has a very linear
response to radiations of
different energies. For this
reason, an ionization chamber
is the preferred instrument for
quantifying personnel external
radiation exposures.
(b) Because of its
versatility and dependability,
the GM detector is the most
widely used portable survey
instrument. A GM detector with
a thin window can detect alpha,
beta and gamma radiation. It
is particularly sensitive to
medium-to-high energy beta
particles (for example, as from
P-32) and X-and gamma-rays as
well. The GM detector is
fairly insensitive to low
3-22
energy X or gamma rays; that is
below 50 keV, to low energy
beta particles such as those
emitted by S-35 and C-14, and
cannot detect the weak betas
from H-3 at all. Unlike the
ionization chamber, the GM
It
instead "detects" the number of
particles interacting in its
sensitive volume per unit time.
The GM should thus read-out in
counts per minute (cpm)
although it can be calibrated
to approximate mR/hr for
certain situations. With these
advantages and limitations a
Geiger-Muller detector on a
rugged survey meter is the
instrument of choice for
initial entry and survey of
radiation sources and
radioactive contamination in
the field.
(2) Scintillation
Detectors.
(a) Scintillation
detectors are based upon the
use of various phosphors (or
scintillators) which emit light
in proportion to the quantity
and energy of the radiation
they absorb. The light flashes
are converted to photo
electrons which are multiplied
in a series of diodes (that is,
a photomultiplier) to produce a
large electrical pulse.
Because the light output and
resultant electrical pulse from
a scintillator is proportional
to the amount of energy
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

deposited by the radiation, (2) Solid scintillation

scintillators are useful in detectors are particularly
identifying the amount of useful in identifying and
specific radionuclides present quantifying gamma-emitting
(that is, scintillation radionuclides. The common gamma
spectrometry). well-counter employs a large
(for example, 2" x 2" or 3" x
(b) Portable scintillation 3") crystal of NaI within a
detectors are widely used for lead shielded well. The sample
conducting various types of vial is lowered directly into a
radiation surveys. Of hollow chamber within the
particular use to workers crystal for counting. Such
working with low energy gamma systems are extremely sensitive
radiation, as from radioiodine, but do not have the resolution
is the thin crystal sodium of more recently developed
iodide (NaI) detector which is semiconductor counting systems,
capable of detecting the such as high-purity germanium
emissions from I-125 with detectors.
efficiencies nearing 20% (a GM
detector is less than 1% d. Neutron detectors,
efficient for I-125). sometimes called 'neutron
balls' or 'rem balls' are used
c. Assaying Instruments. for detection of neutrons.
Neutron detectors use a
(1) The most common means hydrogenous moderator to slow
of quantifying the presence of down the neutrons which will
beta-emitting radionuclides is allow the neutrons to interact
through the use of liquid with charged particles. These
scintillation counting. In charged particles then are
these systems, the sample and detected using a conventional
phosphor are combined in a radiation detector. Boron
solvent within the counting trifluoride (BF3) is a common
vial. The vial is then lowered detector gas used for neutron
into a well between two detection.
photomultiplier tubes for
counting. e. Semiconductor diode
detectors or solid state

Table 3-8
Radiation Detection Instruments
Detector type Radiation Detection Comments
Detected Limit
GM-thick walled þ >50 keV 100 dpm Limited use.
GM-thin window ß >35 keV 100 dpm Good for detecting
þ >35 keV contamination, not good
for quantifying.

3-23
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Detector type Radiation Detection Comments

Detected Limit
NaI- 2" x 2" þ >50 keV 500 dpm Good for detection and
crystal quantification.
NaI-thin ß >50 keV 500 dpm Good for detecting low-
crystal þ >25 keV energy gamma radiation.
Ionization ß >50 keV 0.2 mR/hr Most accurate for
Chamber þ >50 keV exposure measurement.
Pressurized þ >50 keV .01 mR/hr Good for environmental
Ionization surveys.
Chamber
Micro R meter þ >50 keV .01 mR/hr Good for environmental
surveys.
HPGe þ >40 keV variable Lab equipment, can
quantify trace amounts.
Field models available.
Liquid þ, ß, þ variable Lab equipment, can
Scintillation quantify trace amounts.
Field models available.
Gas þ, ß, þ variable Lab equipment, can
Proportional quantify trace amounts
field models available.

detectors use a solid material widespread use is the high

with a charge applied to it to purity germanium detector
detect the energy deposited by (HPGe). The HPGe, like its
radiation. These detectors can predecessor the germanium-
be designed to provide good lithium (GE(Li)) detector, has
detection of most all excellent energy resolution and
radiation, but particular types is commonly used in
of radiation and energy ranges, laboratories for identification
each call for a different and quantification of gamma
configuration. emitting radionuclides. A
primary drawback of the HPGe
f. One type of solid state detector is the requirement to
detector that is finding supercool the detector. This

3-24
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

is done by attaching a Dewar "servicing".)

flask containing liquid
nitrogen to the detector. HPGe (2) Survey meters will be
systems are being made that are function tested with a check
field portable, using small source or other dedicated
Dewar flasks and laptop source before each use. If the
computers, and can provide survey meter is not responding
laboratory quality analysis in properly, it may not be used
the field. for surveys until it is
repaired. There is no need to
g. Energy proportional keep a record of the function
detectors such as scintillation checks, but a record must be
detectors, semiconductor diode kept of the discovery of the
detectors and HPGe detectors improper response and the
are often coupled with a multi- service of the meter to correct
channel analyzer (MCA) to allow the problem, as well as of the
for determination of the energy recalibration of the meter.
of the radiation detected, and
through reference, to determine I. Quality Control.
the radioisotope that emitted
the radiation and the quantity Quality control of
of that isotope in the sample instrumentation is essential in
measured. Most modern MCAs are a radiation protection program.
used in conjunction with All instruments used for
computers which process the monitoring safety and health
information, contain the should be subjected to a
library of radionuclides quality control (QC) program.
referenced by energy of Two tracking/trending methods
radiation, and display software are commonly used in instrument
for digital and graphic output. QC. The general principle is
applicable to both field and
h. Instrument Calibration. lab instruments. The two
methods are background trending
(1) Radiation survey and check source trending.
meters are calibrated with a
radioactive source and an (1) Background trending is
electronic pulser. When an done by plotting the daily
electronic calibration is background reading versus days
performed, the instrument is since last calibration.
checked for response to a Background trending can
radioactive source. In most indicate when instrument probes
situations, survey meters must become contaminated, by showing
be calibrated at least annually a rise in the background rate.
and after servicing. (Battery Care must be taken in measuring
changes are not considered the background daily to assure

3-25
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

that the instrument is in reading of a dedicated check

approximately the same location source against the days since
and that the location is calibration. Check-source
contaminant free. tracking can indicate damage to
the instrument or probe,
(2) Check-source tracking variance of the electronics or
is a method of assuring that changes in the meter response.
the instrument is responding Figure 3-2 is an example of
properly, and remaining in background tracking and check-
calibration. Check-source source tracking.
tracking is performed by
plotting a daily check source

x-background count

Figure 3-2

3-26
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Chapter 4. Licensing. have such agreements with the

NRC are called Agreement
4-1. Overview of Regulatory States. Table 4-2 lists the
Agencies. Agreement States and each
state's radiological health
a. Nuclear Regulatory program office and emergency
Commission (NRC). phone numbers.

(1) The Atomic Energy Act b. Agreement States.

of 1954 charges the NRC with
the responsibility of writing Agreement states have their own
and enforcing regulations state regulations and they
concerning the use of provide personnel to license
radioactive material. A and inspect users of
license is required for radioactive material.
possession of source, byproduct Agreement state regulations
or special nuclear material and must be as stringent as NRC
license holders are inspected regulations and, usually, are
by NRC to determine if more stringent. The primary
regulations are being followed difference in most Agreement
by the licensee. If serious or state regulations is the
repeated violations occur, a inclusion of NORM and Naturally
license may be revoked and the occurring and Accelerator
radioactive material produced Radioactive Material
confiscated. Table 4-1 lists (NARM) materials (such as
NRC regional offices, NRC Form radium, thorium, and cobalt-57)
3, attached at Appendix H, as well as source, byproduct
indicates what NRC region and special nuclear material as
states fall under. regulated materials. The NRC
does not regulate NORM or NARM
(2) Although the NRC is (only source, byproduct, and
the federal agency responsible special nuclear material).
for adopting and enforcing Agreement states do not issue
rules and regulations that licenses to Federal agencies,
apply to users of radioactive including the US Army; only the
material, broad administrative NRC may do so.
responsibilities have been
transferred to some state c. Environmental
governments. In 1959 the NRC Protection Agency (EPA).
was permitted to make
agreements with those states The Atomic Energy Act and
that could operate a suitable Reorganization Plan No. 3
radiological health program for authorized the EPA to establish
the radioactive material users
in their states. States that

4-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

without receiving a licensing

standards to protect human document. Generally licensed
health and the environment from devices usually contain little
the effects of radiation. The activity and pose minimal risk
EPA does not license to the user. Devices which may
radioactive materials, but be generally licensed include:
regulates their release to the static eliminators, some
environment and the exposure of calibration sources, some
the public to radiation. measuring, gauging and
controlling devices and self-
d. Occupational Safety and luminous exit signs. Generally
Health Administration (OSHA). licensed material still
requires compliance with 10 CFR
OSHA is authorized to protect 19 and 10 CFR 20 requirements
worker health and safety. OSHA for worker instructions and
does not license radioactive notices, and radiation
materials, but regulates their protection standards.
use in the workplace. To Additionally, for many
protect workers from radiation, generally licensed items, there
OSHA, in 1984, adopted the NRC are requirements for semi-
regulations specified in 10 CFR annual leak testing and
20, as it stood in 1984. 10 CFR inventories, as well as
20 was amended by the NRC in prohibitions on transfer or
1994. Consequently, there are disposal except for return to
two sets of regulations the manufacturer or transfer to
governing Authorized Users’ the holder of a specific
Assistants with NRC licensable license for that radioactive
materials; the NRC regulations item.
and OSHA regulations. This is
explained more thoroughly in (2) Example: ABC Co. has a
Chapter 5; Dose Limits and specific license to manufacture
ALARA. and to distribute a gas
chromatograph (GC) containing a
4-2. Types of NRC Radioactive 50 mCi Ni-63 sealed source to
Material Licenses. Nuclear general licensees. A USACE lab
Regulatory Commission licenses (the general licensee) may
for radioactive material are of purchase the GC without
two types: general and applying for an NRC specific
specific. license. In the instruction
manual for the GC are
a. General Licenses. procedures for performing leak
tests on the source at 6- month
(1) NRC general licenses intervals, and keeping a
are provided in 10 CFR 31 and written inventory of the device
are effective without updated at 6-month intervals.
submitting an application and

4-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Additionally, the manual The sealed sources will be

includes a statement that the leak tested at 3-month
GC may not be transferred or intervals.
sold to anyone who does not
have a specific license to The source shall be used only
possess 50 mCi of Ni-63, and by persons who have completed
that the GC can only be training as described in the
disposed of by shipping it back license application.
to the manufacturer.
An example of an NRC
b. Specific Licenses. radioactive material license is
included at Appendix H.
(1) Specific licenses
require the submission of an c. Exempt Quantities.
application (either to the NRC
or an Agreement State depending (1) A list of exempt
upon who has jurisdiction) and quantities, that is, the amount
the issuance of licensing of a particular radionuclide
documents from the regulatory that can be obtained without a
agency. It is illegal to general or specific license can
transfer (sell or give) be found in 10 CFR 30.71,
licensed radioactive material Schedule B. These NRC
to another person or regulations also list exempt
institution unless the concentrations, that is, the
recipient has a license to concentration of a particular
possess the material. radionuclide in a product that
Consequently, radionuclide can be obtained without a
supply companies require general or specific license.
information about a customer’s Additionally, NRC and Agreement
license before they will fill State regulations contain a
an order. Devices which may be listing of exempt items, that
specifically licensed include: is, items contain ing
gas chromatographs, radioactive material that can
moisture/density gauges, and be obtained without a general
industrial radiography cameras. or specific license. If you
are unsure of the licensing
(2) Example: A district requirements for a device you
has a specific license to wish to use, contact the
possess and use up to 100 mCi Command RPO.
of Ni-63 in sealed sources. The
district may have two 50 mCi (2) *NOTE*: As previously
sources at one time. mentioned, there is some
Additionally, the specific radioactive material that is
license may contain conditions not regulated by the NRC, but
such as: is regulated by Agreement

4-3
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

States. Most Department of jurisdiction facilities, but

Defense (DOD) sites are many states request that they
exclusive Federal property and be notified of all radioactive
so are regulated by the NRC, materials and devices located
but some bases and some within their boundary.
portions of bases may be state Facilities located on non-
property and may be regulated exclusive federal jurisdiction,
by the state. Always check to may be subject to state
determine if the site you are regulation. USACE requires
on is Agreement State that most ionizing radiation
regulated. This is normally generating devices have an ARA
done through the Command Real (see paragraph 4-6). Table 4-2
Estate function and the Office lists the state radiological
of Counsel. health program offices to
contact for registration and/or
4-3. 'Storage Only' Licensing. licensing of radiation
generating devices.
The NRC allows licensed
radioactive material that is 4-5. Reciprocity Requirements.
not being used to be licensed
for storage only. This method a. The NRC and Agreement
of licensing is less expensive States reciprocally recognize
than a possession and use each other’s radioactive
license. The sealed source material licenses. That is, an
wipe testing requirements are Agreement State licensed
greatly reduced (usually, once company can perform work in NRC
per 10 years, prior to storage, jurisdiction under the
and when removed from storage). company’s Agreement State
The license may require a semi- license. Likewise, an NRC
annual inventory of all licensed company can perform
radioactive material. work in an Agreement State’s
jurisdiction under the
4-4. Radiation Generating company’s NRC license.
Devices.
b. When a state-licensed
The NRC does not license contractor desires to perform
radiation generating (X-ray) work in an “NRC-state,” the
devices since they do not contractor must first be
contain radioactive material. granted reciprocity by the NRC.
Most states, however, require The contractor must provide the
registration and/or licensing NRC with a copy of its state
of radiation generating radioactive material license
devices. States do not have and inform the NRC of its work
authority to regulate devices intentions using NRC Form 241.
used only on exclusive Federal There is a fee for filing NRC

4-4
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Form 241 which may range from (2) less than 1.0
$200.00 to $1000.00 or more microcurie of NORM or NARM,
depending on the type of
license and work to be (3) less than 0.1
performed. microcurie of radium-226,

c. When a state-licensed (4) electron tubes

contractor desires to work in
another Agreement State, the
contractor must notify the
Agreement State using the
appropriate state form.
d. An NRC licensed
contractor performing work on a
site under an Agreement State's
jurisdiction must notify the
Agreement State using the
appropriate state form. Some
Agreement States also charge a
fee for reciprocity.
4-6. Army Radiation
Authorization (ARA).
a. ARAs are issued by
Major Army Commands (MACOM)
(including the Corps of
Engineers). An ARA is required
for a USACE Command to receive,
possess, use, or transfer
radioactive material that is
not licensed by the NRC, that
is, NORM or NARM material or an
ionizing radiation generating
device. An ARA is not required
for radioactive material that
is covered by another MACOM’s
similar authorization.
b. An ARA is not required
for:
(1) NRC license exempt or
generally licensed materials,
containing less than 10 µCi
(370 kBq) of any NARM
radioisotope,
(5) machine-produced
ionizing radiation sources not
capable of producing a high or
very high radiation area, and
(6) Army nuclear reactors
and Army reactor-produced RAM
that remains at the reactor
site. The Army Reactor Office
issues Army reactor permits for
these sources (see AR 50-7).
4-7. Army Radiation Permits
(ARP) and Other Service
Installation Permits.
a. An ARP is required for
a non-Army agency (including
civilian contractors) to use,
store, or possess ionizing
radiation sources on an Army
installation, facility, or
project, or at a U.S. Army
Reserve Center. Non-US Air
Force (USAF) organizations on
USAF property are required to
obtain a USAF permit for use of
NRC licensed material, NORM or
NARM, or radiation generating
devices. Concurrence of the Air
Force or Navy installation
commander, and/or RPO is
required to obtain a base
permit. “Ionizing radiation

4-5
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

source” means any source that, no more than 180 days in any
if held or owned by an Army calendar year.
agency, would require a general
or specific NRC license or an (3) For NARM and machine-
ARA. produced ionizing radiation
sources, the applicant has an
b. The non-Army applicant appropriate state authorization
will apply by letter with that allows the applicant to
supporting documentation use the source as specified in
through the appropriate tenant the ARP application or has in
commander to the installation place a radiation protection
commander. program that complies with Army
regulations.
c. The ARP application
will specify start and stop (4) For overseas
dates for the ARP and describe installations, the applicant
for what uses the applicant has an appropriate host-nation
needs the ARP. The authorization as necessary that
installation commander will allows the applicant to use the
approve the application only if source as specified in the ARP
the applicant provides evidence application and has in place a
to show that one of the radiation protection program
following is true: that complies with Army
regulations.
(1) The applicant
possesses a valid NRC license d. All ARPs will require
or Department of Energy (DOE) applicants to remove all
radiological work permit that permitted sources from Army
allows the applicant to use the property by the end of the
source as specified in the ARP permitted time.
application.
e. Disposal of RAM by
(2) The applicant non-Army agencies on Army
possesses a valid agreement property is prohibited.
state license that allows the However, the installation
applicant to use RAM as commander may authorize
specified in the ARP radioactive releases to the
application, and the applicant atmosphere or to the sanitary
has filed NRC Form-241, Report sewerage system that are in
of Proposed Activities in Non- compliance with all applicable
Agreement States,(attached at Federal, DOD, and Army
Appendix H) with the NRC in regulations.
accordance with 10 CFR 150.20.
An ARP issued under these f. *NOTE* Moisture/density
circumstances will be valid for gauges, X-ray fluorescence

4-6
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

analyzers, and other similar responsibilities.

devices require an Army or USAF
radiation permit or exemption.
g. *NOTE* Any ARP should
be written to allow sufficient
flexibility and be as generic
in nature as is possible. Once
a permit is approved, the
details listed MUST be adhered
to with no variations allowed.
h. Installation permits
need to be applied for at least
45 days prior to the start of
the intended use of the
materials and must be secured
before radioactive material are
brought onto a base.
b. Find the source of
funding for paying licensing,
maintenance and training costs.
The license alone will cost
between $500 and $4000 per
year. Maintaining and meeting
the license conditions will
depend on the type and extent
of the license and can easily
reach $2000 a year. Authorized
Users, Authorized Users’
Assistants, RPOs, etc. will
require initial and annual
refresher training.
c. Contact the RPSO and
coordinate the licensing.

I. An NRC licensed company d. Obtain a copy of the

must notify the RPO before NRC Form 313 “Application for
bringing radioactive material Byproduct Material Usage”
onto a Navy base. A state (attached at Appendix H). Also
licensed company must notify obtain the appropriate
the RPO and, provide the RPO regulatory guide (this will
with an NRC Form 241 and a copy depend on what radioactive
of the company's state material you desire and your
radioactive material license intended use). The regulatory
before bringing radioactive guide will provide good step-
material onto the Navy base. by-step instructions for
filling out the form.
4-8. Applying for an NRC
License. e. An example license
application is included at
If it is determined that a Appendix H. Note that the
Command needs to own application will include a copy
radioactive material, the of the Command’s Radiation
following steps should be Protection Program, and that
followed: the license will include a
condition (condition #19 in the
a. Check with the CO to example at Appendix H) stating
ensure that the Command will that the application and all
support the license and all the accompanying documentation will
accompanying costs and become a part of the license.

4-7
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Everything that the applicant radiation emitted by the

commits to in the application radionuclides listed. Include a
and subsequent correspondence diagram of the work site and
will be binding in the license. the radioactive material
Some tips which may help storage location when it is not
complete the form are as in use.
follows:
(7) In Item 10, each
(1) In Item 5a, list each licensee is required to have a
radionuclide that will be used. written, site-specific,
Radiation Protection Program.
(2) In Item 5b, if using One method of developing this
sealed sources, the chemical program would be to lift the
and/or physical form is “sealed applicable sections of this
source.” List the guidance and incorporate those
manufacturer’s name and the sections into a manual, adding
model number of each source. site specific emergency plans,
Do not give serial numbers; points of contact and personnel
allow flexibility. lists.

(3) In Item 5c, give the (8) In Item 11, for sealed
maximum amount of each sources, state that "No waste
radionuclide that will be will be generated. Sealed
possessed at any given time, sources will be returned to the
including all material in manufacturer for disposal.” If
storage and waste. using unsealed sources,
coordinate with an HP or the
(4) In Item 6, describe RPO to determine a waste
the uses in very broad terms. disposal plan.
For example: “To be used in
Troxler Model 3440 gauge to (9) Photocopy and keep a
measure soil parameters at copy of the application and all
temporary job locations within submittals as these documents
the United States.” will probably be “tied down” on
the license. When a document
(5) In Item 7, list no is “tied down,” it is
more than one individual, and, specifically identified on the
if necessary, one alternate. license and the regulatory
The individual(s) must meet the agency can inspect against it,
training requirements described that is, the applicant must
in Chapter 2. abide by all commitments made
in those documents.
(6) In Item 9, be sure
that the instruments listed (10) Submit the
will detect the type of application and any license fee

4-8

to the RPSO.
(11) The RPSO will review
the application, edit as
needed, and forward the
application and fee to the NRC
in the appropriate region.
(12) Radioactive material
may not be ordered until the
applicant has a copy of the
radioactive material license in
hand.
4-9. Applying for an ARA.
a. If it is determined
that an activity needs NORM,
NARM or an ionizing radiation
generating device, the
following steps should be
followed:
(1) Check with the CO to
ensure that the unit will
support the permit and all the
accompanying costs and
responsibilities.
(2) Find the source of
funding for paying maintenance
and training costs. All users
of the radioactive material
will require initial and annual
refresher training.
(3) Contact the RPSO and
coordinate the licensing.
(4) Obtain DA Form 3337
"Application for Department of
the Army Radiation
Authorization or Permit” and
"Instructions for preparing DA
Form 3337" from your local
4-9
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
forms manager. The
instructions are self-
explanatory. The tips in
paragraph 4-8, “Applying for an
NRC License” apply equally to
Army permits. Copies are
attached at Appendix H.
b. The application for an
ARA is made by submitting DA
Form 3337 to the USACE RPSO.
The Form does not get sent to
the address listed in the
“Instructions for preparing DA
Form 3337”. The application
will include a list of all NRC
licenses and other ARAs held by
the Command. Renewals or
amendments will be submitted in
the same manner as an original
application. Requests should
be submitted at least 120 days
prior to expiration date. A
renewal request received prior
to the expiration date is
considered active until the
renewal approval is received.
4-10. Amendment Requests.
a. An amendment to an NRC
or Agreement State radioactive
material license or an ARA is
necessary anytime:
( 1 ) additional
radionuclides or radioactive
material of another chemical or
physical form is desired;
(2) the use of radioactive
material changes from the
currently authorized use;
(3) the Radiation
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
Protection Program or waste
disposal method will change
substantially; and
(4) if the RPO is listed
on the license by name, and a
new RPO is then appointed.
b. Amendment requests are
submitted in the same way as
new licenses or permits.
Licensees may not procure
requested radionuclides or
quantities until the amendment
has been approved.
4-11. Renewing Licenses or
ARA’s.
a. Radioactive material
licenses are issued for five
years and must be renewed to
stay in effect. The NRC will
send a notice (approximately 90
days in advance) stating that
the license is about to expire.
It will also send the necessary
forms to renew the license.
License renewal requests must
be submitted to the RPSO for
review and forwarding at least
60 days prior to the expiration
date. If sufficient time is
not available to prepare the
renewal request, the applicant
may ask the NRC (in writing) to
extend the expiration date for
up to 90 days.
b. License renewal
requests that are received by
the NRC thirty days prior to
the expiration date will be
deemed “timely filed.” The NRC
will send a “timely filed
4-10
letter”. With this letter, the
licensee may continue operating
under the old license until
they issue the renewed license.
If material is needed, the
supplier may ask to see this
“timely filed letter.”
c. If a license is not
renewed in a timely manner, all
radionuclide use must cease on
the date of expiration. At
this point, the NRC may require
submission of a new license
application.
d. ARAs also must be
renewed every five years. The
RPSO will send a notice,
approximately 90 days in
advance, to permit holders
informing them that their ARA
is about to expire.
4-12. Transfer of Radioactive
Materials.
a. Should a Command wish
to transfer radioactive
material to another Command, a
Request for Authorization to
Transfer Radioactive Materials
(ENG Form 4790-R) must be
completed and submitted to the
RPSO through command channels.
A copy of ENG Form 4790-R is
included at Appendix H.
b. The RPSO will review
the request, and the receiving
Command’s radioactive license
or ARA to ensure that all
regulations, license or ARA
conditions are met, then
approve the transfer.
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

c. When the Command acceptance. The close-out

receives authorization to survey must be performed in all
transfer the materials, the RPO areas that may possibly be
shall ensure that the contaminated with radioactive
radioactive materials are material. Sealed sources, that
packaged and shipped according have passed semi-annual wipe
to DOT and NRC regulations (see tests pose little hazard of
Chapter 8). contamination and a survey of
the main storage area would be
d. The RPO shall prepare a sufficient. Where unsealed
Certificate of Disposal of forms of radionuclides have
Materials (NRC Form 314) and been used, the survey should be
forward the original to the conducted following NRC
RPSO. The RPSO will review the guidance. Nuclear Regulatory
certificate and record the Commission NUREGs and Reg.
transfer in the USACE radio- Guides explain the required
active materials inventory. If sampling and monitoring
the radioactive materials are strategy for different site
listed on an NRC license, the types, gridding methods for
RPSO will submit the surveys, sample analysis, data
certificate to the NRC. interpretation techniques, and
documentation requirements for
4-13. Terminating a Radioactive termination surveys.
Material License or ARA.
b. The license is
a. When a Command no considered formally terminated
longer wishes to possess or use only upon receipt of the letter
licensed or permitted of termination from the NRC to
radioactive material, the the RPSO.
license or ARA must be
terminated. License or ARA 4-14. Information Flow through
termination involves disposal applicable USACE Channels.
of all radioactive material, a
survey of the premises for a. All NRC license or ARA
radioactive material applications, approvals,
contamination (a “close-out amendments, submittals,
survey”), submission of terminations, etc., must be
disposal documentation and the routed through all Safety and
close-out survey results, and a Occupational Health Office
written request for termination channels (that is, “through
of the license or ARA submitted channels”), prior to being
to the RPSO. The RPSO will received for action by the
review the request and submit HQUSACE RPSO. For example: a
it to the proper regulatory request to obtain an NRC
agency or DA official for license amendment would flow

4-11
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

from the local RPO, through the b. Failure to follow the

local SOHO, through the information flow process is a
Division SOHO, to the RPSO for violation of the USACE
action. Actions would be delegation requirements
forwarded from the RPSO in specified by the DA. Technical
reverse order. consultations between NRC
Offices and license holders at
USACE Commands may take place,
though notification of the RPSO
of such communications is
recommended.

TABLE 4-1
NRC Regional Offices
REGION LOCATION TELEPHONE NO.
Region I King of Prussia, PA 610-337-5000
Region II Atlanta, GA 404-331-4503
Region III Lisle, IL 708-829-9500
Region IV Arlington, TX 817-860-8100

TABLE 4-2
State Radiological Health Program Office and 24-Hour Phone Nos.
†Agreement State
STATE OFFICE PHONE NO. 24-HOUR PHONE NO.
Alabama† 205-613-5391 205-242-4378
Alaska 907-465-3019 907-789-9858
Arizona† 602-255-4845 602-223-2212
Arkansas† 501-661-2301 501-661-2136
California† 916-322-3482 916-391-7716
Colorado† 303-692-3030 303-771-8517
Connecticut 203-424-3029 203-566-3333
Delaware 302-739-3787 302-678-9111
District of Columbia 202-727-7190 202-727-1010

4-12
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

STATE OFFICE PHONE NO. 24-HOUR PHONE NO.

Florida† 904-487-1004 407-297-2095
Georgia† 404-362-2675 800-241-4113
Hawaii 808-586-4701 808-733-4300
Idaho 208-334-2235 800-632-2235
Illinois† 217-785-9868 217-785-9900
Indiana 317-383-6152 317-383-6154
Iowa† 515-281-3478 515-993-5386
Kansas† 913-296-1562 913-296-3176
Kentucky† 502-564-3700 502-564-7815
Louisiana† 504-765-1060 504-765-0160
Maine† 207-287-5686 207-624-7000
Maryland† 410-631-3300 410-922-7609
Massachusetts† 617-727-6214 617-727-9710
Michigan 517-335-8200 517-336-6100
Minnesota 621-627-5039 612-649-5451
Mississippi† 601-354-6657 601-856-5256
Missouri 314-751-6102 314-635-4964
Montana 406-444-3671 406-442-7491
Nebraska† 402-471-2168 402-471-4545
Nevada† 702-687-5394 702-687-5300
New Hampshire† 603-271-4588 603-271-3636
New Jersey 609-987-6389 609-292-7172
New Mexico† 505-827-4300 505-351-4651
New York† 518-458-6461 518-457-2200
North Carolina† 919-571-4141 919-733-3861
North Dakota† 701-328-5188 701-328-2121

4-13
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

STATE OFFICE PHONE NO. 24-HOUR PHONE NO.

Ohio 614-644-2727 614-644-1909
Oklahoma 405-271-7484 800-522-0206
Oregon† 503-731-4014 503-731-4014
Pennsylvania 717-787-2480 717-783-8150
Rhode Island† 401-227-2438 401-621-1600
South Carolina† 803-737-7400 803-253-6488
South Dakota 605-773-3364 605-224-7888
Tennessee† 615-532-0360 615-741-0001
Texas† 512-834-6688 512-458-7460
Utah† 801-536-4250 801-533-4097
Vermont 802-865-7730 802-244-8727
Virginia 804-786-5932 804-674-2400
Washington† 360-586-8949 360-786-8001
West Virginia 304-588-3526 304-558-5380
Wisconsin 608-267-4782 800-943-0003
Wyoming 307-777-7574 Not available

4-14
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Chapter 5. Dose Limits and 5-2. USACE Dose Limits.

ALARA.
a. Tier 1; NRC dose
5-1. Occupational Dose Limit limits. Each user of
structure. radioactive material or
radiation generating devices
As described in Chapter 4, shall limit occupational doses
doses to Authorized Users’ to individuals to the following
Assistants are regulated by the limits:
NRC or Agreement State, OSHA,
and DA and USACE regulations. (1) An annual limit which
To ensure compliance with all is the more limiting of:
regulatory agencies, USACE has
established a three tiered (a) 5 rems (5000 millirem
approach to worker dose limits. (mrem)(0.05 sieverts (Sv))
Tier 1 is the NRC regulatory TEDE,
dose limits which are never to
be exceeded. Tier 2 is the (b) The sum of the deep
USACE dose limits which are dose equivalent and the
effectively 10% of the NRC committed dose equivalent to
limits. The USACE limits will any individual organ or tissue
ensure that USACE workers will of 50 rems (50000 mrem)(0.5
be in compliance with OSHA Sv),
regulations and Agreement State
regulations. Tier 3 is project (c) 15 rems (15000
specific dose goals which will mrem)(0.15 Sv) to the lens of
be set below the USACE dose the eye, or
limits. Project specific dose
goals are used to promote the (d) 50 rems (50000
concept of ALARA; keeping the mrem)(0.5 Sv) shallow dose
dose as low as is reasonably equivalent to the skin, or any
achievable, taking social, extremity.
technical and financial
considerations into account. (2) The TEDE to the fetus
Army and NRC regulations of a declared pregnant worker
require a radiation protection will be kept below 0.5 rem
program that promotes ALARA. (500 mrem)(0.005 Sv) during the
Descriptions and examples of entire gestation period.
the technical definitions of Should the worker declare
the various dose items are pregnancy after the fetus has
explained in paragraph 3-5 of received 0.5 rem, the fetus
this manual. Table 5-1 will be limited to no more than
highlights the dose limits put an additional 0.05 rem for the
forth in the three-tiered remaining gestation period, as
approach. per 10 CFR 20.1208.

5-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

b. Tier 2 USACE annual c. Tier 3 project

dose limits. Without the specific dose goals. To keep
written approval of the RPSO doses ALARA, the user shall set
the annual occupational dose administrative action levels
shall not exceed the more below the USACE annual dose
limiting of: limits. The ALARA action
levels shall be realistic and
(1) 0.5 rems (500 mrem) attainable. ALARA action levels
(0.005 sieverts (Sv)) TEDE, can be set at any level, but
need to take the particulars of
(2) The sum of the deep each project into account.
dose equivalent and the Example action levels for a
committed dose equivalent to small project involving little
any individual organ or tissue radioactive material could be:
of 5 rems (5000 mrem)(0.05 Sv),
(1)Shall not exceed the
(3) 1.5 rems (1500 more limiting of:
mrem)(0.015 Sv) to the lens of
the eye, (a) 0.1 rems (0.001
sieverts (Sv)) TEDE,
(4) 5 rems (5000 mrem)
(0.05 Sv) shallow dose (b) The sum of the deep
equivalent to the skin, or any dose equivalent and the
extremity, or committed dose equivalent to
any individual organ or tissue
(5) The TEDE to the fetus of 0.5 rems (0.005 Sv),
of a declared pregnant worker
will be kept below 0.5 rem (c) 0.15 rems (0.0015 Sv)
(500 mrem)(0.005 Sv) during the to the lens of the eye, or
entire gestation period.
Should the worker declare (d) 0.5 rems (0.005 Sv)
pregnancy after the fetus has shallow dose equivalent to the
received 0.5 rem, the fetus skin, or any extremity.
will be limited to no more than
an additional 0.05 rem for the
remaining gestation period.

Table 5-1
Dose Limits
NRC Annual USACE Annual Example
Body Part Limits Limits Annual ALARA
Limits
Whole Body 5 rem 0.5 rem 0.1 rem

5-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

NRC Annual USACE Annual Example

Body Part Limits Limits Annual ALARA
Limits
Individual Organ 50 rem 5.0 rem 0.5 rem
Lens of eye 15 rem 1.5 rem 0.15 rem
Skin 50 rem 5.0 rem 0.5 rem

d. Planned special calculate the dose received

exposures (see definitions)
shall not be used without the
written consent of the RPSO.
e. Persons under the age
of 18 shall not be allowed
occupational exposure to
radiation on USACE sites.
f. Because the
embryo/fetus is very
radiosensitive, the NRC has set
lower dose limits. The dose to
an embryo/fetus shall not
exceed 0.5 rem (0.005 Sv)
during the entire gestation
period. To accomplish this, and
to ensure privacy and working
rights, the NRC has defined
regulations for the control of
doses to a Declared Pregnant
Worker (DPW).
(1) A declared pregnant
worker means a women who has
voluntarily informed her
employer, in writing, of her
pregnancy and the estimated
date of conception.
(2) A declared pregnant
worker will be provided with a
declaration of pregnancy form
which the RPO will use to
from the date of conception
until the date of declaration.
Exposure limits for the
remaining allowable dose will
be set at that time. A
declared pregnant worker may
“un-declare” at any time.
(3) The RPO will give the
DPW a copy of the DPW statement
(see Appendix H for an example
(if Social Security Number is
used, ensure proper privacy act
statement is included)), a copy
of NRC Regulatory Guide 8.13,
and enroll the DPW in a fetal
monitoring program (See chapter
7).
5-3. NRC and Agreement State
Dose Limits.
a. NRC dose limits are the
Tier 1 limits. NRC regulates
only NRC licensed source,
byproduct or special nuclear
materials. Most Agreement
States have the same dose
limits as the NRC, but most
include regulation of NORM and
NARM materials and radiation
generating devices.
b. Under NRC regulations,

5-3
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30 May 97

each user of licensed 5-5. Monitoring Requirements.

radioactive material shall
limit occupational doses to Both OSHA and NRC have
individuals as stated in requirements to monitor dose to
paragraph 5-2a. individuals who can reasonably
be expected to receive a dose
c. Note that compliance greater than 10% of the maximum
with the USACE dose limits will permissible dose. Compliance
comply with the NRC and with USACE Tier 2 dose limits
Agreement State dose limits. will keep workers at doses
below 10% of the maximum
5-4. OSHA Dose Limits. permissible doses. The RPO will
issue dosimetry to
a. OSHA adopted the NRC occupationally exposed
dose limits as they were individuals as deemed necessary
written before the new 10 CFR to demonstrate compliance with
20 was issued in 1991. Note Federal, Army and USACE
that OSHA regulations apply to regulations, and to ensure that
all radioactive materials doses are kept ALARA.
including NORM and NARM, as
well as radiation generating 5-6. Doses to the Public.
devices such as X-ray machines.
a. NRC and Agreement
b. No employer shall use States presently require that a
radioactive materials or licensee restrict dose to the
radiation generating devices in public to 100 mrem/year TEDE
a manner which would cause any from licensed activities. The
individual to receive a dose EDE in any unrestricted area
during one calendar quarter in may not exceed 2 mrem in any
excess of: one hour. The maximum allowable
dose to the public from
(1) 1.25 rem to the whole effluents from a licensed
body; head and trunk; active facility is 50 mrem/year and
blood forming organs; lens of listed in Appendix B of 10 CFR
eyes or gonads. 20 as a calculated
concentration for each specific
(2) 18.75 rem to the hands radionuclide yielding 50
and forearms; feet and ankles. mrem/year. For decontaminated
and decommissioned facilities
(3) 7.5 rem to the skin of to be released without
the whole body. restrictions, the dose from
residual contamination must be
Note that compliance with the below 25 mrem/year to the
USACE dose limits will meet public.
this requirement.

5-4
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b. The EPA has standards c. There are proposed

for radioactivity in community rules from both the NRC and the
drinking water systems. The EPA to limit dose to the public
present standards are 5 from radiation to 15 mrem/year.
picocuries per liter (pCi/l) of Note that this value is so far
Ra-226 plus Ra-228, and 15 below natural background levels
pCi/l of gross alpha particle as to be unmeasurable by any
activity, including Ra-226 but instrumentation and only
excluding uranium and radon. calculable through dose
The present dose limits are 4 modeling.
mrem/year from beta/gamma-
emitting radionuclides to the
whole body or any organ.

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Chapter 6. Working with (1) Posting Caution Signs.

radiation.
(a) USACE policy is that
6-1. Caution Signs and Labels. any room or area in which
radioactive material, covered
a. Appropriate warnings by an NRC license, an Agreement
are required in all areas, State license, or an ARA is
rooms, and on all containers in used or stored shall be posted
which significant amounts of “Caution, Radioactive
radiation or radioactive Material”.
material may be found.
Warnings consist of postings (b) A room or area in
and labelings. In general, which radioactive material is
areas or rooms are “posted” used or stored may require
with signs whereas containers, additional posting if the dose
devices, equipment, etc. are rate in the room or area is
“labeled.” The specific likely to exceed 5 mrem in any
warning to be used depends on one hour at 30 cm from the
the type and degree of hazard source or source container.
present. The RPO will post Table 6-1 specifies when a room
rooms, hoods, work areas, etc. or area must be posted as a
The AU is responsible for Radiation Area, a High
appropriate labeling. Radiation Area, or a Very High
Radiation Area.

Table 6-1
Caution Sign Posting Requirements
Dose Rate Distance From Posting Required
Source
1. 5 mrem in 1. 1. “Caution,
any one 30 cm Radiation
hour. Area”
2. 100 mrem in 2. 2. “Caution,
any one 30 cm High
hour. Radiation
Area”
3. 500 rad in 3. 3. “Grave
any one 1 m Danger, Very
hour. High
Radiation
Area”

6-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

(2) NRC Required Labeling. are attended by an individual

who takes the precautions
(a) When a container has a necessary to prevent the
quantity of radioactive exposure of any individual to
material equal to or greater radiation or radioactive
than that listed in 10 CFR 20 material in excess of the
Appendix C, a "Caution, limits when they are in
Radioactive Material" label transport and packaged and
will be affixed to the outside labeled in accordance with DOT
of the container. Most gauges regulations, or c o n t a i n e r s
and instruments containing which are accessible only to
radioactive material, such as individuals authorized to
soil density gauges, electron handle or use them or to work
capture sections of gas in the vicinity thereof,
chromatographs, or sediment provided that the contents are
density probes will require identified to such individuals
this label. The label should be by a readily available written
large enough to be conspicuous. record.
Standard labels are roughly 4"
x 3.5". b. Signs and labels shall
have a yellow background with a
(b) Each AU shall, prior magenta or black standard
to disposal of any radiation symbol. Lettering
uncontaminated empty container shall be magenta or black, but
to an unrestricted area, remove magenta is the preferred color.
or deface the label or
otherwise clearly indicate that c. Regulations require
the container no longer that the following information
contains radioactive material. be posted in a prominent
location, in sufficient numbers
(c) Be advised that this to be accessible to all who
labeling requirement is work in, or frequent, areas
separate from the labeling where radioactive material is
requirements of DOT. A package used:
of radioactive material
prepared for transportation may (1) A copy of the license
also need DOT labels as or permit, conditions,
described in Chapter 8 - references and amendments.
Transportation of Radioactive This is usually accomplished by
Material. posting a notice of where the
license, license conditions,
(d) An AU is not required referenced documents and
to label containers when they amendments are kept. For

6-2

example, "NRC License documents
are kept in the District Safety
Office and may be viewed by
anyone upon request."
(2) Applicable operating
procedures for the prescribed
use of radioactive material.
(3) All notices of
violations involving working
conditions, civil penalties, or
order, and the response from
the licensee. These notices
must be posted within two
working days of their receipt
and must be posted for a
minimum of five working days or
until the violation has been
corrected whichever is later.
(4) NRC Form 3, "Notice to
Employees" most recent version
(rev. Jan 96 as of this
printing), or Agreement State
equivalent. (NRC Form-3
included at Appendix H.)
6-2. Airborne Radioactivity.
a. If the activities you
are engaged in are suspected to
create airborne radioactivity
(for example, vapors or
aerosols), the RPO or HP can
conduct the appropriate surveys
and calculations to determine
if posting the area is
required. If necessary, these
areas will be posted with a
"Caution, Airborne
Radioactivity Area".
b. The RPO will arrange a
time to conduct the posting of
6-3
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
each authorized use location
prior to approving that
location for radioactive
material use. A facility
posting checklist is utilized
to document postings.
6-3. Rooms/Areas in Which
Radioactive Material is No
Longer Used or Stored.
The AU is responsible for
notifying the RPO by memo when
radioactive material usage in a
room or area has ceased. The
RPO will perform a close-out
survey of the area to ensure no
residual contamination, remove
all signs and postings,
document the survey and, if
necessary, apply to amend or
terminate all applicable NRC
Licenses and/or ARAs.
6-4. Receiving Radioactive
Material.
a. NRC regulations require
that written instructions for
receiving and opening packages
be maintained and followed by
all personnel receiving
radioactive material. Refer to
10 CFR 20.1906 for complete
guidance. The following written
instructions meet the NRC
requirements.
b. When a package is
received it will be inspected
as follows:
(1) A visual check is made
to see if the package is
damaged (wet or crushed). If
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

there is evidence of is received during normal

degradation of package working hours, or not later
integrity, the package will be than 3 hours from the beginning
wipe tested for radioactive of the next working day if it
contamination and radiation is received after normal
levels. working hours.

(2) Wipe test the external (4) The receiver will

surfaces of a labeled package immediately notify the final
(a package labeled with a delivery carrier and, by
Radioactive White I, Yellow II, telephone and telegram,
or Yellow III label as mailgram, or facsimile, the
specified in DOT regulations, RPSO, and the NRC when
49 CFR 172) for radioactive removable radioactive surface
contamination unless the contamination exceeds
package contains only 2200 disintegrations per minute
radioactive material in the (dpm)/100 cm2 beta, gamma or
form of gas or in special form 220 dpm/100 cm2 alpha or if the
as defined in 10 CFR 20 or any external radiation level
package that appears damaged, exceeds 200 mrem per hour at
or if the wipe test results any point on the external
from the shipper are not surface of the package or 10
documented. mrem per hour at 1 meter from
the package.
(3) Survey the external
surfaces of a labeled package (5) When a radioactive
for radiation levels unless the material package is received,
package contains quantities of there is a chance the
radioactive material that are radioactive material has leaked
less than or equal to the A2 out of the inner container.
quantity listed in 10 CFR 71 One could receive a radiation
Appendix A, and the radioactive exposure if a contaminated
material is in the form of a package is opened without
gas or in special form. Tables taking proper precautions.
6-2 and 6-3 list some of the Always assume a radioactive
common A1 (special (sealed material package is
source) form) and A2 (normal, contaminated until proven
unsealed form) values. All the otherwise.
A1 and A2 values can be found
in 49 CFR 173.35. Surveying and c. SOPs for opening
wipe testing shall be performed packages should be developed
as soon as practicable after for each site receiving and
receipt of the package, but not opening radioactive material
later than three hours after packages. The following
the package is received if it guidance may assist in

6-4
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preparing the procedure: radioactive material, as

required above.
(1) wear gloves.
(5) if contamination is
(2) check to be sure the found, dispose of all
contents match the packing contaminated shipping material
slip. as radioactive waste. If the
radioactive material is still
(3) remove and wipe test usable, clean the outside of
the inner container if the container, and store in an
contamination is suspected. Do area posted as necessary, for
not release the contents until radioactive material. Survey
the wipe test results have been the receipt area for
obtained. contamination.

(4) if contamination is (6) deface or remove all

not found, store the labels on the uncontaminated
radioactive material in a shipping box and dispose of as
secure storage area that is normal trash.
conspicuously posted for

Table 6-2
Typical A1 Quantities in Special (sealed source) Form:
H-3 . . . . . . . . . 1000 Ci Ba-133 . . . . . . . . 40 Ci
C-14 . . . . . . . . 1000 Ci Cs-137 . . . . . . . . 30 Ci
Na-22 . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ci Pm-147 . . . . . . . 1000 Ci
P-32 . . . . . . . . . 30 Ci Tl-204 . . . . . . . . 300 Ci
S-35 . . . . . . . . 1000 Ci Po-210 . . . . . . . . 200 Ci
Co-57 . . . . . . . . . 90 Ci Ra-226 . . . . . . . . 10 Ci
Fe-59 . . . . . . . . . 10 Ci Th-232 . . . . . . unlimited
Co-60 . . . . . . . . . 7 Ci U-238 . . . . . . . unlimited
Ni-63 . . . . . . . . 1000 Ci Am-241 . . . . . . . . . 8 Ci
Sr-90 . . . . . . . . . 10 Ci Cf-252 . . . . . . . . . 2 Ci
I-125 . . . . . . . . 1000 Ci

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Table 6-3
Typical A2 Quantities in Normal(unsealed) Form:
H-3 . . . . . . . . . . 20 Ci Cf-252 . . . . . . . 0.009 Ci
C-14 . . . . . . . . . 60 Ci Ba-133 . . . . . . . . 10 Ci
Na-22 . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ci Cs-137 . . . . . . . . 10 Ci
P-32 . . . . . . . . . 30 Ci Pm-147 . . . . . . . . 25 Ci
S-35 . . . . . . . . . 60 Ci Tl-204 . . . . . . . . 10 Ci
Co-57 . . . . . . . . . 90 Ci Po-210 . . . . . . . . 0.2 Ci
Fe-59 . . . . . . . . . 10 Ci Ra-226 . . . . . . . 0.05 Ci
Co-60 . . . . . . . . . 7 Ci Th-232 . . . . . . unlimited
Ni-63 . . . . . . . . 100 Ci U-238 . . . . . . . unlimited
Sr-90 . . . . . . . . . 0.4 Ci Am-241 . . . . . . . 0.008 Ci
I-125 . . . . . . . . . 70 Ci

6-5. Radioactive Material and The inventory shall be kept on

Radiation Generating Device ENG Form 3309-R “Record of
Inventory. Radioactive Material”. A copy
of this form is attached at
a. The RPO for each USACE Appendix H.
Command is responsible for all
radioactive material and b. The RPO for each Command
radiation generating devices owning or possessing
owned or possessed by the radioactive material or
Command, regardless of whether radiation generating devices
the material and radiation shall physically inventory each
generating device is authorized item at least semi-annually,
under a general license, a and more often if their license
specific license, or ARA. In requires it. This will usually
order to ensure control of all be accomplished along with the
radioactive material and semi-annual wipe test. For
radiation generating devices, remote sources, such as those
the RPO shall maintain a assigned to dredges, the RPO
written inventory of all may have an AU perform the
radioactive material and physical inventory of the
radiation generating devices item(s).
within the Command. Inventory
should be categorized into NRC 6-6. Storing Radioactive
specifically licensed Material.
materials, NRC generally
licensed materials, ARA The AU is responsible for
authorized materials, and assuring that all radioactive
radiation generating devices. material is stored in a secure

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manner when not in use. Sealed window NaI scintillation

sources used in the field may detector (probe). An
be locked in their storage ionization chamber would not be
containers. Sealed sources appropriate for a contamination
stored in a building may be survey. At the beginning of
locked in a storage room or each day of use, an
storage cabinet. Unsealed instrument’s operability should
sources may be locked in a be checked with a suitable
storage container, cabinet, check source. Each meter has
drawer, refrigerator, or an integrator circuit and it
freezer. Labs where unsealed will take time for it to
sources are used shall be properly respond. It is highly
locked whenever the lab is suggested that meters be
unattended. Sealed sources in equipped with audio circuits so
fixed use locations may be a surveyor can hear a change in
secured in their work position. 'click' rates and resurvey
The AU must ensure that where suspected 'hot spots'.
ever radioactive sources are
stored, proper labeling and b. Removable contamination
posting, as per paragraph 6-1 consisting of low energy beta
is used. or alpha emitting
radionuclides, such as H-3,
6-7. Contamination Control. C-14, or Pu-239, is best
detected through the use of
a. Depending upon the wipes and liquid scintillation
types and quantities of counting since the beta
radioactive material in use, emissions from these
contamination surveys may be radionuclides have insufficient
made directly with portable energy to be efficiently
survey instruments or detected by portable survey
indirectly (removable instruments, and the alpha
contamination survey, wipe or emissions have of too short of
swipe survey) by wiping a range in air to be easily
surfaces (approximately 100 detected. Wipes may also be
cm2) with a filter paper and appropriate when attempting to
counting the wipes. detect contamination in areas
with higher than background
A direct contamination survey radiation levels. For example,
is performed using a meter and the use of a GM survey meter to
detector appropriate to the detect contamination would not
nuclides in use in the area. be practical if radiation
For example, if surveying for levels in an area are already
P-32 contamination, one would elevated from radioactive
use a GM detector (probe); for material stored within the
I-125, one would use a thin area. In this situation, a

6-7
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30 May 97

wipe test could be performed with an oil based solvent,

and the wipe counted at a water soluble contaminants will
location away from the not be collected as
radiation field. efficiently. Additionally,
many solvents are hazardous
c. When radiation levels materials, and should
in an area are normal radioactive contamination be
background, portable survey found, the swab may become a
instruments can be quite mixed or commingled waste. The
effective in detecting certain wipe test is performed by
ty p e s of r a d i o a c tive physically wiping the area to
contamination. Most GM meters be checked.
can detect P-32 with
efficiencies exceeding 20%. b. If water is used to
I-125 can be detected at moisten the material, caution
efficiencies nearing 20% with a must be used to not saturate
thin crystal (NaI) the material and to allow the
scintillation probe. All material to dry prior to
survey instruments are only as measurement. Water will
good as their maintenance. A attenuate alpha emitters and
portable survey meter, in most allow for false readings when
cases must be calibrated at read with a survey meter or
least once every year and some counting systems. The NSN
operability verified each day for a box of 500 wipe testers
of use with a check source. is 6665-01-198-7573 (a 2-inch
diameter Whatman filter paper
6-8. Wipe Tests. works well also). Another
common method for small spaces
a. A wipe test, also is the use of cotton swabs,
called a ‘smear’ or ‘swipe’ similar to ‘Q-tips.’ A NSN for
test, is collected using a package of these is 6515-00-
various materials. The most 890-1475.
common material is a filter
paper type material designed c. Wipe testing is
specifically for this purpose. performed by using the wipe or
This material can be used wet filter paper or cotton swab and
or dry but dry wipe tests are wiping it over an area
preferred. Dry tests are approximately 100 square
preferred if the chemical form centimeters. Wipe tests are
of the radionuclide is not performed using normal finger
known. If it is not water pressure on a dry filter paper
soluble, a wipe with a wet swab or swab and wiping in an "S"
will not collect as much of the shape for a distance of 50
contaminant as a dry swab. centimeters and wiping again in
Conversely, if a swab is wetted a backwards "S" shape at right

6-8
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

angles to the first one for the source and the hand. The
another 50 centimeters. The wipe, or swab should then be
wipe is then analyzed on site placed in its own plastic bag
or packaged in an envelope and or glycine envelope to avoid
sent to a lab for analysis. If potentially contaminating other
an item is too small or wipes or areas. Since many
irregularly shaped for this Commands do not have the
procedure, then wipe the entire instrumentation available to
surface area of small items or determine the amount of
an accessible 100 square contamination from a leak test,
centimeter area of irregular most leak test wipes are sent
shaped items. to a lab for analysis. USACE
leak tests shall be sent to
d. Suggested limits for USAIRDC for analysis.
removable contamination are
listed in Table 6-4. Whenever b. The limits for
radioactive contamination is contamination of sealed sources
found, reasonable efforts is 0.005 µCi per wipe.
should be made to remove all
contamination.

6-9. Leak Testing.

a. Many sealed sources are

required by license or
authorization conditions to be
leak tested periodically. Leak
tests are typically required
every six months. But some
license conditions may require
more frequent testing. A leak
test is performed in a manner
similar to a wipe test. The
primary difference is that most
sealed sources emit much more
radiation than most
contamination, and for ALARA
purposes it is best to keep as
much distance between the
source and the person
performing the leak test. This
is done by using long handled
cotton swabs or forceps to hold
the filter paper swab,
increasing the distance between

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Table 6-4
Acceptable Surface Contamination Levels
a
NUCLIDE AVERAGE b c MAXIMUM b d REMOVABLE b e

dpm/100 cm2 dpm/100 cm2 dpm/100 cm2

U-nat, U-235, U-238 and 5,000 þ 15,000 þ 1,000 þ
associated decay products
Transuranics, Ra-226, Ra-228, 100 300 20
Th-230, Th-228, Pa-231, Ac-
227, I-125, I-129
Th-nat, Th-232, Sr-90, Ra- 1,000 3,000 200
223, Ra-224, U-232, I-126, I-
131, I-133
Beta-gamma emitters (nuclides 5000 ß-þ 15,000 ß-þ 1,000 ß-þ
with decay modes other than
alpha emission or spontaneous
fission) except Sr-90 and
others noted above.

a
Where surface contamination by both alpha- and beta-gamma-emitting nuclides
exists, the limits established for alpha- and beta-gamma-emitting nuclides
should apply independently.
b
As used in this table, dpm (disintegrations per minute) means the rate of
emission by radioactive material as determined by correcting the counts per
minute observed by an appropriate detector for background, efficiency, and
geometric factors associated with the instrumentation.
c
Measurements of average contaminant should not be averaged over more than 1
square meter. For objects of less surface area, the average should be derived
for each object.
d
The maximum contamination level applies to an area of not more than 100 cm2.
e
The amount of removable radioactive material per 100 cm2 of surface area
should be determined by wiping that area with dry filter or soft absorbent
paper, applying moderate pressure, and assessing the amount of radioactive
material on the wipe with an appropriate instrument of known efficiency. When
removable contamination on objects of less surface area is determined, the
pertinent levels should be reduced proportionally and the entire surface
should be wiped.

6-10. Exposure Rate Surveys.

storage and use of relatively
In addition to contamination large quantities of high energy
monitoring, it is also beta or gamma emitters. This
important to assess exposure information is important in
rates resulting from the planning and evaluating the
control of time, distance, and

6-10
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*NOTE* Never delay treatment of

shielding in order to minimize
personnel exposure. In some
situations, a GM meter
calibrated at or near the
energy of the radiation
measured, can give a reasonable
estimate of the exposure rate.
An ionization chamber will give
the most accurate estimate of
exposure and should be used
whenever measuring exposures to
determine posting requirements,
measuring the transport index
(TI) of a package, or when
exposures are more than a few
millirems.
6- 1 1 . A c c i d e n t / I n c i dent
Response.
a. There is always a
possibility of an accident
involving radiation or
radioactive material. USACE
will strive for a zero accident
tolerance level. This can be
accomplished using Standing
Operating Procedures,
conscientious work practices,
and having and practicing an
Accident / Emergency Response
Plan. The plan, required for
all HTRW sites, must provide
guidance for response to fire,
natural disasters, radioactive
material spill, and inadvertent
radiation exposure. The plan
will address the following
procedures:
(1) Evacuation of
building/area;
(2) Treatment of injured
personnel;
an injured person because of
actual or potential radioactive
contamination.
(3) Firefighting;
(4) Spill response;
( 5 ) P e r s o n n e l
decontamination; and
(6) Any additional site
specific requirements.
6-12. Accident/Incident
Reporting.
a. Any individual
suspecting or knowing of an
accident, incident, loss or
theft involving radioactive
material or radiation will
notify the RPO as soon as
possible. The RPO will notify
the RPSO immediately of any
accident, incident, loss or
theft that requires reporting
to the NRC or other regulatory
agency. The RPO will notify
the NRC, OSHA or other
regulatory agency in the
required time frame, of all
accidents, incidents, losses or
thefts that require reporting.
The RPSO will notify HQDA
(DACS-SF) of all NRC, OSHA or
other agency notifications
within the same time frame as
required by the agency. The
RPSO will also notify DASG-PSP
of all exposures exceeding Tier
the 1 dose limits or OSHA dose
limits and submit copies of
reports to other agencies to

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DASG-PSP as required by the immediately;

Army Radiation Protection
Program. All telephone reports
will be followed up by a
written report within 30 days.
b. All written reports
will address the following
items:
(1) A description of the
material involved, including
the kind, quantity and chemical
and physical form of the
material,
(2) A description of the
circumstances surrounding the
incident,
(3) A statement of the
disposition, or probable
disposition of the material
involved,
(4) An estimate of doses
received by any individuals,
and the circumstances of the
exposure,
(5) Actions taken, and
(6) Procedures or measures
proposed or adopted to prevent
recurrence.
c. The following are some
of the reportable accidents/
incidents, and the required
reporting times:
(1) Theft or loss of 1000
times the 10 CFR 20, Appendix C
quantity of a radioactive
material must be reported
(2) Theft or loss of 10
times the 10 CFR 20, Appendix C
quantity of a radioactive
material must be reported
within 30 days;
(3) Incidents that cause
or threaten to cause an
individual to receive 25 rem
TEDE, 75 rem EDE, or 250 rem
Shallow Dose Equivalent (SDE),
must be reported immediately;
(4) A release of
radioactive material, either
inside or outside a restricted
area, that could possibly
result in a 24-hour dose of
greater than five times the
annual limits must be reported
immediately;
(5) Incidents that cause
or threaten to cause an
individual to receive 5 rem
TEDE, 5 rem EDE, or 50 rem SDE,
must be reported within 24
hours;
(6) Release of radioactive
material, either inside or
outside a restricted area, that
could possibly result in a 24
hour dose of greater than the
annual limits must be reported
within 24 hours.
(7) Incidents that cause
an occupational worker, member
of the public, a minor or an
embryo/fetus of a declared
pregnant woman to receive a
dose in excess of the

6-12
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

appropriate regulatory dose, their Radiation Protection

must be reported within 30 Program annually for content
days; and implementation. The RPO
will assure that the quality
(8) A release of and timeliness of their program
radioactive material, inside a meet the radiation safety
restricted area, greater than guidelines outlined in this
the license limits must be manual. The RPO will review
reported within 30 days; all work with radiation within
his/her Command. The RPO will
(9) A release of perform the annual review with
radioactive material, outside a the purpose of anticipating the
restricted area, greater than needs of the program in the
10 times any license limit, coming year. The review will
regardless of any exposure to be documented and a copy
an individual, must be reported forwarded to the RPSO.
within 30 days.
c. Additional audits and
d. Reports must include reviews may be performed as
the information required in 10 deemed beneficial to the
CFR 20 Subpart M, or as Command by the RPSO, the RPO,
required by other regulatory or the Commander.
agencies.
d. Documentation Audits.
6-13. Audits and Reviews. Documentation audits may be
performed by the RPSO or their
a. The RPSO, or their designee for Commands with an
designee, will audit each NRC license or ARA where little
Command that possesses a health risk is posed by
radioactive material license or radiation. A document audit
ARA tri-annually. The audit is will consist of a review of the
to ensure personnel safety and radioactive materials license
compliance with regulatory or ARA, the inventory,
requirements. The audit may personnel dose histories,
consist of a records review, receipt, transfer, and disposal
facility inspection, interviews records, and leak test results.
with the RPO and AUs, and an Deficiencies may include
exit interview with the RPC or incomplete or inaccurate
the Commander, depending on the documentation. Significant or
activity at the Command. The multiple deficiencies may
audit will be documented and a initiate a field audit.
copy furnished to the Commander
and the RPO. e. Field Audits. Field
audits will be performed by the
b. The RPO will review RPSO or their designee for

6-13
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Commands where the use of is of the proper type for the

radioactive materials or radiation used; that the
radiation generating devices instruments have been
has the potential to present calibrated in a timely manner;
greater health risks to USACE and that personnel know the
personnel or the public. A correct methods of surveying
field audit will consist of a for radiation and
documentation audit and an on- contamination,
site inspection. The inspection
will concentrate on proactive (5) ensuring that any
radiation protection procedures transportation of radioactive
and processes. These may materials complies with NRC and
include: DOT regulations.

(1) ensuring proper f. U.S. Army Center for

posting and labeling, Health Promotion and Preventive
Medicine (USACHPPM) Surveys.
(2) ensuring proper use of Presently, USACHPPM surveys
dosimetry, USACE Commands annually.
USACHPPM surveys follow a
(3) ensuring proper and sample protocol/checklist
secure storage of radioactive presented at Appendix I.
materials,

(4) ensuring that

radiation monitoring equipment

6-14
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Chapter 7. P e r s o nnel b. Most individuals who

Monitoring. work in radiation areas never
approach values which require
7-1. External Monitoring. personnel monitoring.
Statistical evaluations of
a. To indicate the amount monitoring results have shown
of radiation to which a person that 70% of all monitored
has been externally exposed, an Authorized Users’ Assistants
individual monitoring device receive no measurable exposure
may be used. NRC regulations and another 20% receive less
define an “individual than 100 mrem per year.
monitoring device” as a device Exposure histories have
designed to be worn by a single documented the fact that
individual for the assessment usually only those individuals
of dose equivalent. Examples of who work in radiology,
dosimeters include film badges, radiography, and other fields
thermoluminescent dosimeters using high activity sources are
(TLDs), pocket ionization required to be monitored.
chambers (“pencils”), alarm
rate meters, track etch c. Within USACE, the RPO
dosimeters, and neutron will determine which USACE
sensitive film. NRC and OSHA personnel should wear
regulations require that each dosimeters. USACE personnel
licensee monitor occupational are among the aforementioned
exposure to radiation and large percentage of individuals
supply and require the use of which are not likely to receive
dosimeters by: a measurable dose. Dosimetry
is issued, in most cases, to
(1) Adults likely to document low exposures.
receive in one year from
sources external to the body a d. The RPO will instruct
dose in excess of 10 per cent personnel in the proper use of
of the limits specified in dosimeters, will issue
Chapter 4; dosimeters, will collect
dosimeters and submit them for
(2) Declared pregnant analysis, and will review the
women likely to receive during analysis results. Dosimeters
the pregnancy, from sources (except direct and indirect
external to the body a dose in reading pocket ionization
excess of 10 per cent of the chambers) will be processed by
limits in Chapter 4; and a laboratory which holds
current accreditation from the
(3) An individual entering National Voluntary Laboratory
a high or very high radiation Accreditation Program (NVLAP)
area. of the National Institute of

7-1
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30 May 97

Standards and Technology dosimeters should be stored at

(NIST).
e. Most contractors use
vendor supplied services. USACE
personnel will use the US Army
Ionizing Radiation Dosimetry
Center (USAIRDC) for dosimetry
services. Exposures shall be
reported and recorded.
Exposures shall be recorded
using the computer generated
printout generated by USAIRDC
or NRC Form 5 (a copy for
reference of the USAIRDC
version of NRC Form 5 is
attached at Appendix H). The
program is administered from
Redstone Arsenal and may be
contacted at the following:
US Army Missile Command
Attn: AMSMI-TMDE-SR-D
Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-5400
commercial phone number:
(205)876-1858.
f. The four chip TLD is
the standard US Army whole body
dosimeter.
site and not taken home each
night. A dosimeter shall be
returned to the RPO if an
employee will not be physically
present at the job site for a
period of one month or greater.
h. A person whose
dosimeter is lost, damaged, or
contaminated while working will
immediately exit the radiation
control area and report the
occurrence to the RPO. Reentry
of the person into the
radiation control area will not
be permitted without RPO
approval. Dosimeters will not
be utilized by USACE personnel
for operations at locations
other than USACE sites.
7-2. Internal Monitoring.
a. NRC regulations also
require that each licensee
monitor the occupational intake
of radioactive material by and
assess the committed effective
dose equivalent to:

g. Personnel should not (1) Adults likely to

expose their dosimeter to receive in one year an intake
security X-ray devices, in excess of 10 percent of the
excessive heat, or medical applicable ALI; and
sources of radiation. Should
job conditions dictate, (2) Declared pregnant
dosimeters may be removed from women likely to receive during
a job site as part of an the pregnancy, a committed
employee’s routine travel to effective dose equivalent in
and from work. At sites where excess of 50 mrem.
dosimeter use is routine, and
there is a responsible b. If a licensee is
individual to manage the required to monitor both
dosimeters, the personal external and internal

7-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

exposures, then the external exceeding the action level.

and internal doses must be This will confirm the preceding
summed to demonstrate measurement and allow an
compliance with the dose limits estimate of effective half-
specified in Chapter 5. life.

c. Internal monitoring can d. Within USACE, personnel

be achieved via bioassay. A shall participate in a bioassay
bioassay is a determination of program when they are likely to
the kind, quantity, or receive an intake that may
concentration and location of result in a committed effective
radioactive material in the dose equivalent of 100 mrem or
body. A direct (in vivo) more, or, when an intake of
bioassay measurement may be radiation is suspected for any
made by whole body counting reason. Specific bioassay
(that is, counting the gamma- requirements will be determined
rays emanating from a by the RPO for each job site.
radionuclide in a given organ). Bioassay procedures, supplies,
An indirect (in vitro) bioassay lab analysis and dose
measurement may be made by assessment may be obtained on a
assessing the quantity of a cost reimbursable basis from
specific radionuclide in the US Army Center Health
samples that are excreted (for Promotion and Preventive
example, urine, feces, or Medicine (USACHPPM),
blood). There are four types of Radiochemistry and Analysis
bioassays: Program (RAP), commercial
phone,(410) 671-3983.
(1) Baseline: Prior to
potential exposure; e. Personnel shall be
notified promptly of positive
(2) Routine: At a bioassay results, as well as
specified frequency (for the results of dose assessments
example, quarterly); and subsequent refinements.
Dose assessment results shall
(3) Postoperational: be provided in terms of mrem to
Within two weeks of the last the organ(s) and whole body.
possible exposure when
operations are b eing f. Personnel should
discontinued or when the worker participate in diagnostic
is terminating duties with (follow-up) bioassay monitoring
exposure to radioisotopes; and when their routine bioassay
results indicate an intake in
(4) Diagnostic: Follow-up the current year with a
bioassay performed within two committed effective dose
weeks of any measurement equivalent of

7-3
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30 May 97

100 mrem or more. be worn simultaneously with the

primary dosimeter. The alarm
g. Management should rate meter or pencil dosimeter
require a post-operational should not be allowed to exceed
bioassay when a person who 75 per cent of full scale.
participated in the bioassay
program terminates employment c. The establishment and
or concludes work involving the maintenance of a comprehensive
potential for internal area monitoring program may
exposure. minimize the number of areas
requiring the issuance of
7-3. Advanced Monitoring. personnel dosimeters, and,
demonstrate that doses outside
a. Multiple dosimeters may radiation work areas are
be issued to personnel to negligible. Minimizing the
assess whole-body exposure in number of personnel dosimeters
nonuniform radiation fields or issued lowers the costs of
as required in radiation work operating the dosimetry program
plans. Nonuniform radiation and reduces costs associated
fields exist when the dose to a with maintaining personnel with
portion of the whole body will enhanced training and
exceed the dose to the primary qualifications.
dosimeter by more than 50
percent, and, the anticipated d. Area-monitoring
whole-body dose is greater than dosimeters should be used in
100 mrem. controlled areas to supplement
existing monitoring programs,
b. The use of an alarm and to provide data in the
rate meter is encouraged for event of an emergency. Area-
entry into a high radiation monitoring dosimeters should be
area or when a planned dose of used to record and document
greater than 100 mrem in one radiation levels in routinely
week is expected. An alarm occupied areas that are
rate meter provides an early adjacent to areas where radia-
warning of elevated exposure tion, or operations with
through the use of a preset radiation exist. Area-
dose rate or an integrated monitoring dosimeter results
dose. A direct reading could be used to support
(pencil) dosimeter may be used dosimetry investigations if
in place of an alarm rate personnel express concerns
meter. A pencil dosimeter with about their work environments
the lowest range applicable and possible exposure to
(typically 0-200 mR) should be ionizing radiation.
selected. The alarm rate meter
or the pencil dosimeter should e. Any pregnant worker who

7-4

wishes to voluntarily enroll in
the fetal monitoring program
needs to contact the RPO.
(1) The worker will be
provided with a declaration of
pregnancy statement which the
RPO will use to calculate the
dose received from the date of
conception until the date of
declaration. An example of this
statement is included at
Appendix H (if Social Security
Number is used ensure proper
privacy act statement is
provided). Exposure limits for
the remaining allowable dose
will be set at that time.
(2) A copy of the
completed declaration of
pregnancy statement, NRC
Regulatory Guide 8.13, and a
fetal monitoring dosimeter will
be provided to the declared
pregnant worker as soon as
practical. The fetal
monitoring dosimeter is to be
worn at waist level versus the
standard whole body dosimeter
which is worn at the collar.
If a lead apron is utilized,
the fetal dosimeter is worn
under the apron and the whole
body dosimeter outside the
apron.
(3) The exposure levels
for fetal monitoring dosimeters
will be closely evaluated
throughout the entire gestation
period by the RPO. A fetal
ALARA level has been set by the
RPSO at an exposure of 40
mrem/month. Should this level
7-5
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97
be exceeded, the declared
pregnant worker will receive
immediate notification, and
actions will be taken to reduce
any further exposure.
(4) At the end of the
pregnancy, or if the worker
rescinds her pregnancy
declaration and wishes to cease
fetal monitoring, the declared
pregnant woman should contact
the RPO to discontinue the
fetal monitoring dosimeter. A
fetal exposure final report
will be generated.
7-4. Exposure Reporting.
a. The RPO will furnish
each worker annually with a
written report of the worker’s
dose.
b. At the request of a
worker who is terminating
employment, the RPO will
provide (within 30 days of the
request) a termination report
regarding the radiation dose
received by that worker for the
current year or fraction
thereof. If the most recent
results are not available at
that time, a written estimate
of the dose will be provided
with a clear indication that
this is an estimate. The RPO
can obtain this information
from USAIRDC.
c. It is each individual’s
responsibility to notify the
RPO when they terminate work
involving radiation exposure.
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

d. A worker formerly values are as follows:

engaged in activities
controlled by USACE, may (a) Whole Body Badge - 10
request a written report of mrem for X-and gamma-radiation,
his/her exposure to sources of 40 mrem for energetic beta
radiation for each year that radiation; and
he/she was monitored. The
report will be prepared by the (b) Ring Badge - 10 mrem
RPO, will cover the period of for X- and gamma-radiation, 30
time that the worker’s mrem for energetic beta
activities involved exposure to radiation.
radiation, will include the
dates and locations of work, e. Each RPO has
and will be furnished to the information relevant to
worker within 30 days of the enrolling in the program. A DD
request. The RPO can obtain Form 1952 (available through
this information from USAIRDC. the local forms manager) must
The RPO can provide a detailed be completed and forwarded to
interpretation of a monitoring the RPO.
report form. Information which
may be useful when reading a f. All individuals must
monitoring report is as provide a dose history to the
follows: RPO if they are likely to have
received in excess of 10% of
(1) A HARD exposure any applicable annual limit.
relates to the whole body Additionally, any individual
exposure (DDE); who had been monitored at
another facility during the
(2) A SOFT exposure current calendar year must
relates to a skin exposure provide the RPO with pertinent
(SDE); exposure data. This exposure
data will allow adjustments to
(3) An EYE exposure be made so that the annual dose
relates to an exposure to the limits are not exceeded. Both
lens of the eye (Lens Dose of these are required prior to
Equivalent); and enrolling in the dosimetry
program.
(4) A dose of 000.000 or
'M' indicates a minimum g. All personnel requiring
reading. This means the dose bioassays will be sent a copy
for the monitoring period was of their bioassay results on an
below the minimum measurable annual basis. An individual
quantity for the type of may request the result of any
dosimeter used. Usual minimum bioassay at any time.

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Chapter 8. Transportation of b. NRC regulates Type B

Radioactive Material. and fissile packages; it is
responsible for transportation
8-1. Purpose. safeguards; it investigates
accidents/incidents, and it is
This chapter is intended to a technical advisor to DOT.
introduce containment, control, Relevant NRC regulations may be
and communication requirements found in 10 CFR 71. It is
when transporting radioactive worth noting that 10 CFR 71.5
material. This chapter is not requires NRC licensees to
an exhaustive review of all comply with 49 CFR 170-189.
regulatory requirements which
pertain to shipping radioactive c. DOE controls and
material. regulates shipments of U.S.
Government program related
8-2. Applicability. nuclear materials. DOE
requires shippers and carriers
This chapter applies to all of non-weapons under their
personnel who ship or transport authority to conform to DOT and
radioactive material and all NRC regulations.
personnel who supervise
operations which involve d. U.S. Postal Service
shipments or transportation of (USPS) regulations for mailable
radioactive material. radioactive material may be
found in USPS Publication 6,
8-3. Regulations. latest edition (March 1990)-
“Radioactive Material.”
a. The transportation of Mailable packages are limited
radioactive material is to those meeting DOT
regulated jointly at the requirements in 49 CFR 173.421
Federal level by the DOT and and 173.422 for Limited
the NRC. The division of Quantities and Instruments and
responsibilities between DOT Articles EXCEPT THAT the
and NRC is specified in a radioactivity content in the
memorandum of understanding. package is further limited to
DOT regulates shippers, one-tenth of DOT limits in
carriers, Type A packages and Table 7, 49 CFR 173.423.
LOW SPECIFIC ACTIVITY (LSA)
packages, and it issues e. For purposes of
Certificates of Competent transportation, radioactive
Authority for International material is defined as any
Shipments. Relevant DOT material which has a specific
regulations may be found in 49 activity greater than 0.002
CFR 170-189. µCi/g (70 Bq/gm) [49 CFR
173.403 and 10 CFR 71.10(a)].

8-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

f. Hazardous material is (1) Strong, tight

defined by DOT as any containers (STC);
substance, including mixtures
and solutions of substances, (2) Industrial packagings
which the Secretary of (IP-1, IP-2, and IP-3);
Transportation has determined
to be capable of posing an (3) Type A packages; and
unreasonable risk to health,
safety and property when (4) Type B packages.
transported in commerce (49 CFR
171.8). Radioactive material b. The package required
is considered hazardous for a particular shipment of
material by DOT’s definition. radioactive material is
determined by the activity or
8-4. Procedures. quantity of the shipment. DOT
categorizes quantities of
a. Nuclear transportation radioactive material into five
regulations ensure safety by subtypes:
effective containment of the
material; effective control of (1) EXCEPTED QUANTITIES
the radiation emitted from the which includes:
package; preventing-
criticality for fissile (a) Limited Quantities
radioactive material; and (173.421), must be in a STC;
adequate dissipation of any
heat generated in a package. (b) Instruments and
Primarily, safety in transport Articles (173.424), must be in
is accomplished by proper a STC;
packaging of the radioactive
material and by accurately (c) Manufactured Articles
communicating any associated of U, DU, or Th (173.426), must
hazards. be in a STC; and

b. Hazard communication is (d) Empty Packages

achieved through correct (173.428), must be in a STC.
marking, labeling, placarding,
manifesting, and emergency (2) LSA QUANTITIES and
response information. SURFACE CONTAMINATED OBJECTS
(173.427), in an industrial
8-5. Packaging. package, in a DOT Spec 7A Type
A package, or in a STC;
a. In general, there are
four types of packages used to (3) TYPE A QUANTITIES (þ A1
transport radioactive material: or A2 values in 173.435), must
be in a Type A package;

8-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

(4) TYPE B QUANTITIES (þ should seek assistance from a

A1 or A2 values in 173.435), qualified professional.
must be in a Type B package;
and 8-6. Marking.

(5) HIGHWAY ROUTE a. Packages containing

CONTROLLED QUANTITIES (3000 X radioactive material must be
A1 or A2 values in 173.435, or marked according to 49 CFR
exceed 27,000 Ci.), must be in 172.300. Proper marking
a Type B package. includes:

c. When preparing a (1) The proper shipping

shipment, a person should first name and the identification
determine the DOT subtype number as shown in 49 CFR
involved. Then, the person can 172.101 for packages which are
determine the type of package less than 110 gallons;
required either by referring to
the information and regulatory (2) If transferred to
citations given above or by another carrier, the name and
referring to column 5 of the address of the shipper
Hazardous Materials Table (consignor) or the receiver
(172.101). (consignee);

d. Each shipper of a DOT (3) The gross mass if

Specification 7A package (a greater than 110 pounds;
Type A package) must maintain
on file for at least one year (4) “Type A” or “Type B”
after the latest shipment, and in ½ inch letters for these
shall provide to DOT on types of packages;
request, DOT p a c kage
performance test records [49 (5) “This End Up þ” for
CFR 173.415(a)]. liquids;

e. Any shipper of a Type B (6) “USA” for

package that has been approved
by NRC in accordance with 10
CFR 71 shall be registered with
the NRC as a party to the
approval and the shipment must
be made in compliance with the
approval (49 CFR 173.471).
f. Anyone needing to ship
radioactive material, but who
has little experience doing so,
international shipments; and
(7) “RQ” for reportable
quantities (172.101, App. A).
(8) Shipments where the
term “radioactive material”
does not appear in the proper
shipping name on the manifest
and shipments not requiring a
manifest must be marked

8-3
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

“Radioactive Material” (1) Labels on two opposite

sides excluding the bottom;
b. The markings must be
durable, legible, in English, (2) Labels affixed near
and printed on or firmly the markings (same side) and
affixed to the package. The oriented in the same direction
markings must be displayed on a as the markings; and
background of a sharply
contrasting color. Markings (3) Label must be durable
must be located away from other and able to withstand color
markings, such as advertising, change for 30 days.
that could substantially reduce
the noticeability of the b. Packages of Limited
marking. Markings must not be Quantities, Instruments and
covered or obscured by labels Articles, and Manufactured
or attachments. Articles of U, depleted uranium
(DU), or Th are exempt from
8-7. Labeling. labeling requirements.
EXCEPTED QUANTITIES prepared
a. Packages containing for shipment must have a notice
radioactive material must be (as written below) enclosed in
labeled according to 49 CFR or on the package, included
172.400. DOT specifies three with the packing list, or
categories of labels for otherwise forwarded with the
packages containing radioactive package. Limited Quantity
material: Radioactive White-I, packages and Manufactured
Radioactive Yellow-II, and Articles of U, DU, or Th
Radioactive Yellow-III. The packages must have the word
label required for a package “Radioactive” on the inner
depends on the radiation level packaging. Empty packages must
at the package surface and at 1 have an “Empty” label. LOW
meter from the package surface SPECIFIC ACTIVITY packages must
[the radiation level measured have a “Radioactive-LSA” label.
at 1 meter, in mrem/hr, and
listed without units is also c. Excepted quantities
known as the transport index notice. The notice must
(TI)]. Each label must include include the name of the
the name of the radionuclide, consignor or consignee and the
the activity (in SI units statement “This package
followed by curie units in conforms to the conditions and
parentheses), and the TI limitations specified in 49 CFR
(Radioactive Yellow-II and -III 173.421 for excep ted
labels only). Proper labeling radioactive material, limited
includes: quantity, n.o.s., UN 2910; 49
CFR 173.422 for excepted

8-4
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

radioactive material, CONTROLLED QUANTITIES; however,

instruments and articles, UN the placard must be placed on a
2911; 49 CFR 173.424 for square background.
excepted radioactive material,
articles manufactured from 8-9. Manifesting.
natural or depleted uranium or
natural thorium UN 2909; or 40 a. Persons shipping other
CFR 173.427 for excepted than EXCEPTED QUANTITIES of
radioactive material, empty radioactive material must
packages, UN 2908" as describe the material on a
appropriate. shipping paper as per 49 CFR
172.200.
8-8. Placarding.
b. A shipping paper must
a. A vehicle transporting contain the following:
a package labeled Radioactive
Yellow-III or a vehicle (1) A hazardous material
transporting exclusively LOW entry which must consist of
SPECIFIC ACTIVITY packages and/or appear as follows:
and surface contaminated
objects in accordance with (a) Appear as the first
173.427(b)(3) must be entry on the shipping paper;
placarded. The shipper must
provide the carrier with all (b) Be designated by an
necessary placards. Proper “X” in the hazardous material
placarding includes: column (“RQ” may be used in the
case of hazardous substances);
(1) Placards must be or
displayed on the front, rear
and both sides of the vehicle; (c) Be highlighted or
entered in a contrasting color.
(2) Placards must be
durable, legible, and readily (2) A shipping description
visible and must be at least which must include:
three inches from other
markings; and (a) The basic description
- the proper shipping name,
(3) Placards must conform hazard class, and
to the shape, size, color and identification number (in that
design requirements specified order);
49 CFR 172.500.
(b) The total quantity;
b. Placarding is also
required for vehicles (c) The name of each
transporting HIGHWAY ROUTE radionuclide (abbreviations are

8-5
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

authorized); (n) LSA-I, LSA-II, LSA-

III, SCO-I, or SCO-II for such
(d) Physical and chemical shipments; and
form (if the material is not in
special form); (o) An emergency response
telephone number (see paragraph
(e) Activity per package 8-11c).
measured in SI units followed
by curie units in parentheses; (3) Each entry must be
separated from the next by a
(f) Category of label comma. The shipping paper must
applied (for example, include a shipping
Radioactive White-I); certification statement worded
exactly as described in 49 CFR
(g) TI on Radioactive 172.204(a). The certification
Yellow-II and Radioactive must also include additional
Yellow-III labels; clauses for some materials and
modes of transportation as
(h) For a shipment of described in 49 CFR 172.204.
fissile materials, see The shipping paper must be
172.203(d)(7); signed by the shipper.

(I) Type B package - (4) When transported by

Certificate of Approval from public highway, a shipping
NRC or DOE, package paper shall be within the
identification; driver's immediate reach while
he/she is restrained by the lap
(j) Import/export belt and either readily visible
shipments - U.S. Certificate of to a person entering the
Competent Authority number; driver's compartment (that is,
NOT in the glove compartment)
(k) “Highway Route or in a holder which is mounted
Controlled Quantity” entered to the inside of the door on
with the basic description for the driver's side of the
such shipments; vehicle.

(l) “Limited Quantity” or 8-10. Hazardous Waste

“Ltd Qty” entered with the Manifesting.
basic description for such
shipments; For a shipment of hazardous
waste, which includes
(m) An indication that the radioactive waste, a hazardous
shipment is consigned as waste manifest must be prepared
exclusive use for such according to 40 CFR 262. The
shipments; RCRA definition of hazardous

8-6
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

waste includes mixed waste but sheet), or in a guidance

not radioactive waste (see document [40 CFR 172.602(b)].
Chapter 9 for a definition of The information must be
mixed waste). accessible to persons entering
the vehicle.
8-11. Emergency Response
Information. c. A 24-hour emergency
response telephone number must
a. Persons shipping other be on the shipping paper. The
than EXCEPTED QUANTITIES of emergency response number must
radioactive material must be manned by a person who is
supply emergency response either knowledgeable of the
information as required in 49 radioactive material and knows
CFR 172.600. This emergency the proper emergency response
information must contain: procedures or has immediate
access to someone who does.
(1) The basic description The emergency number must be
as required by 49 CFR 172.202; for either the person making
the radioactive material
(2) The immediate health shipment or for a company
hazards; willing to accept the
responsibility for emergency
(3) The risk of fire or response. The person making
explosion; the shipment must ensure that
the company is capable of
(4) Precautions to be performing the emergency
taken in the event of an response necessary.
accident;
8-12. Hazmat Employee Training.
(5) Methods for handling
fires; a. A hazmat employer is
defined by DOT as a person who
(6) Methods for handling uses one or more of its
spills or leaks; and employees in connection with,
among other things,
(7) First aid measures. transporting hazardous
materials in commerce. A
b. The information must be hazmat employee directly
in English and be located away affects hazardous materials
from the package containing the transportation safety. It is a
radioactive material. The hazmat employer’s
information required must be responsibility to ensure that
presented on a shipping paper, each of its hazmat employees
in a separate document (for receives training such that
example, a material safety data hazmat employees can recognize

8-7
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

and identify hazardous dose equivalent of occupational

materials, know how to respond
in an emergency situation, know
self-protection measures, and
know accident prevention
methods (49 CFR 172.700).
b. Hazmat employees shall
receive the training at least
once every two years. Training
provided by employers to comply
with OSHA regulations (29 CFR
1910.120) or EPA regulations
(40 CFR 311.1) may be used to
satisfy DOT’s hazmat employee
training requirements if the
topics specified in the
preceding paragraph are
covered.
c. Subpart I, “Radiation
protection program.” of 49 CFR
172 requires that a hazmat
employee’s annual effective
radiation exposure not exceed
1.25 rem per three months or
five rem per 12 months (0.125
rem per three months or 0.5 rem
per 12 months for workers under
the age of eighteen).
8-13. Exceptions.
Exceptions exist for nearly all
DOT regulations. These
exceptions are listed in Title
49 near each applicable part.
One major exception of
importance is that the
International Air Transport
Association (IATA) Dangerous
Goods Regulations may be used
in place of Title 49 for any
shipment where at least one leg
of the shipment will be by air.
IATA is similar to, but much
simpler than, Title 49.

8-8
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Chapter 9. Waste management. drinking water. Legislation is

underway to allow EPA to
Radioactive waste management is regulate allowable radiation
an important part of a exposure to the public from any
Radiation Protection Program. man-made source.
There are few options for
disposal of radioactive waste (3) Table 9-1 is a listing
and all are costly. A well of major laws and regulations
thought out waste management pertinent to low level
program will make radiation radioactive waste (LLRW) and
protection simpler and less mixed waste disposal, site
expensive. remediation, and operational
practices. The following
9-1. Regulation of Radioactive paragraphs describe the various
Wastes. agencies propounding those
regulations. This chapter is
a. Oversight Agencies. not an exhaustive description
or listing of all applicable
(1) The NRC regulates laws and regulations.
source, byproduct and special Identification of applicable
nuclear material only. laws and regulations is a site-
Agreement States may include specific determination made
NORM and NARM within their only after full consultation
jurisdiction. Congress with a regulatory specialist
mandated that states dispose of and Office of Counsel.
the radioactive waste generated
within their borders. The b. Department of Army.
states formed compacts to allow
construction of one facility (1) The U.S. Army
for the disposal of waste from Industrial Operations Command
all states within the compact. (AIOC), AMSIO-DMW, Rock Island,
Compact commissions regulate IL 61299-6000, has been
the disposal of waste within appointed as the executing
their compact states and agent for disposal of DOD
control the import and export radioactive waste. The
of radioactive waste to and executing agent is responsible
from their states. for inventorying and reporting
all DOD waste disposal. The
(2) The EPA regulates executing agent also serves as
radioactive material at CERCLA the POC for the disposal
sites, in air emissions, and in compacts and operates two DOD

9-1
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30 May 97

TABLE 9-1
Low Level Radioactive Waste Laws and Regulations

DOT EPA NRC OSHA DOE DOD

Regulates Regulates Regulates Regulates Regulates Responsible

interstate mixed waste, source, worker health radioactive for DOD
transportation air and water byproduct, and and safety. material on DOE licensed
of DOT defined emissions. special Still applies sites and radioactive
radioactive Title 40 nuclear old 10 CFR 20 nuclear weapons material and
materials material; also regulations. materials. ARA authorized
(>2000 pCi/g). applies DOT Title 29 Title 10 materials.
Title 49 regulations to AR 385-11
intrastate
shipments of
radioactive
material.
Title 10

storage facilities for 9-2. Low Level Radioactive

radioactive waste that cannot Waste (LLRW).
be disposed due to compact
status. a. LLRW is defined as all
radioactive waste that is not
(2) USACE is responsible high level waste or uranium or
for remediation of radioactive thorium mill tailings. This
wastes at formerly used defense definition was enacted for
sites (FUDS), and at the purposes of determining methods
discretion of the installation of disposal of LLRW and high
commander, for remediation of level radioactive wastes. Most
radioactive and mixed wastes on radioactive waste USACE may
active and base realignment and manage is LLRW. LLRW should
closure (BRAC) listed bases. not be construed to present a
USACE is also involved with low hazard. The hazards of
LLRW disposal during other DOD radioactive wastes are
installation environmental determined by the type and
restoration actions. USACE quantity of radiation emitted.
disposal of DOD LLRW waste
must be coordinated through the b. Mixed Waste.
HTRW-CX. The action will then
be coordinated with the DOD Mixed waste is defined as waste
executing agent for low-level composed of NRC regulated
radioactive waste disposal. radioactive materials mixed
with RCRA (Resource
(3) Non-DOD (for example, Conservation and Recovery Act)
RCRA Corrective Action) LLRW listed hazardous wastes, and/or
waste disposal will be RCRA characteristic hazardous
coordinated with the HTRW-CX. waste. The radioactive
components of mixed waste

9-2
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regulated by the NRC are disposal options for combined

source, byproduct or special or co-mingled waste, but only a
nuclear material, and the few options for mixed waste.
hazardous component of mixed
waste is regulated by EPA. A e. Agreement States are
hazardous waste is defined in listed in Table 4-2. LLRW
40 CFR 261 as a solid waste compacts are shown on the map
which exhibits a hazardous located in Appendix H.
characteristic, is "listed" in
the regulations, or is a
mixture of hazardous and solid f. Mixed Waste Amendment.
wastes. The mixed waste amendment is
found in Section 105 of the
c. Radioactive material Federal Facilities Compliance
which is not source, byproduct Act of 1992. The amendment
or special nuclear material is created a new mixed waste
not regulated by the NRC, but provision within RCRA. The
may be regulated by Agreement amendment required DOE to
States, depending on the state submit a plan with schedules
laws. Hazardous wastes that for all applicable permit
are not RCRA listed or applications, construction
characteristic hazardous wastes activities and processing of
may be regulated by the state mixed waste at each of the DOE
as a hazardous waste under sites. Any USACE activity
state hazardous waste doing work for DOE should
management laws. The state verify if a plan exists for the
does not need to be RCRA- site and if there are any
authorized to establish this compliance schedules or permits
authority. When non-NRC in place. Examination of
regulated radioactive material compliance schedules should
is mixed with RCRA hazardous include evaluating the
waste, or with state listed hazardous portion regulated
hazardous waste, or when NRC under RCRA. The RCRA
regulated radioactive material compliance schedules may
is mixed with state listed contain critical time-lines for
hazardous waste, the waste is USACE to meet in order to stay
considered to be combined in compliance. The mixed waste
waste, also called co-mingled amendment also required EPA or
waste. EPA authorized states to
receive a copy of the mixed
d. The distinction between waste management plan for
mixed and combined or co- review and approval.
mingled waste is important
because the disposal options
differ. There are a number of

9-3
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30 May 97

9-3. Elements of a Waste final disposal at the disposal

Management Program. site.

There are five elements of a 9-5. Waste Minimization.

radioactive waste management
program. These elements are: The most effective method of
dealing with radioactive waste
a. Material tracking; is to not generate it. This is
often the case when using
b. Waste minimization; sealed sources. When working
with unsealed sources or on
c. Waste recycling; HTRW sites this is usually not
possible. Radioactive waste
d. Waste storage; and disposal costs are based on the
cubic foot of waste at shallow
e. Waste disposal. land burial sites and by the
gallon at incinerators, so
9-4. Material Tracking. there is a financial incentive
to minimize the amount of waste
Any project involving produced and the volume of
radioactive material will have waste disposed. Where
a radioactive material tracking radioactive waste is generated
program in effect. This or packaged, waste minimization
program will document the techniques should be used.
arrival on site of the These techniques include
radioactive material, the avoiding equipment
package receipt procedures, an contamination, limiting the
active inventory of all spread of contamination,
materials and their locations decontamination of items where
at all times, all radioactive it is cost effective, efficient
waste generated, and the final packing of bulky items and
disposal of the radioactive compaction or supercompaction
material. Radioactive material where possible.
will be tracked using the
Record of Radioactive Material 9-6. Waste Recycling.
form (ENG 3309-R). On HTRW
sites where there is A number of companies will
radioactive contamination, the recycle certain radioactive and
radioactive material will be mixed wastes. Sealed sources
entered into a tracking program are often in demand by
as the contamination is companies and universities.
containerized, or remediated. Radioactively contaminated
Each container will be labeled metals can be smelted and cast
as described in Chapter 8, and as parts for disposal
tracked, from inception until containers for other

9-4
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

radioactive wastes. If a be disposed of by these methods

project involves recyclable are listed in Appendix B of 10
radioactive wastes, contact the CFR 20.
HTRW-CX for a POC at the
recycling companies. (2) 10 CFR 20 also allows
disposal of, and incineration
9-7. Waste Storage. of liquid scintillation fluids
or animal tissue containing
Due to the status of some low tritium or carbon-14 at
level radioactive waste state concentrations of 0.05
compacts, there may be no microcurie per gram or less
disposal option for some without regard to the
radioactive wastes. Storage on radioactivity of the medium.
site in most cases requires NRC Many liquid scintillation
or Agreement State licensing of cocktails contain toluene or
the site and is generally not xylene which are RCRA hazardous
recommended. If the waste is a wastes. The liquid
mixed waste, the RCRA time scintillation cocktails that
limit for storage on-site contain these, or other
without a part B permit may be hazardous wastes, must still be
in effect. The US Army has disposed of as hazardous
contracted two facilities for wastes.
long term storage of
radioactive wastes. Neither (3) NRC licen sed
facility has a Part B permit, radioactive material which is
so neither can store mixed, considered waste and cannot be
combined or co-mingled wastes. disposed of by the above
If long term storage is needed, methods, must be disposed of at
contact the HTRW CX to arrange a licensed LLRW disposal
for use of the US Army facility.
facilities.
b. A classification
9-8. Waste Disposal. system has been developed to
segregate LLRW by hazard for
a. Radioactive wastes can disposal at near surface
be disposed of in the following disposal sites. The hazard is
ways. based on the longevity and the
radiation emitted. There are
(1) An NRC licensed certain requirements to be met
facility is allowed to release for all classes of LLRW,
limited concentrations of intended to facilitate handling
radionuclides into the air or and provide protection to the
water. Small quantities can be site personnel, the nearby
disposed of in a sanitary public, and potential intruders
sewer. Concentrations that can into the disposal facility.

9-5
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30 May 97

LLRW is classified as to the pyrophoric; waste containing

degree of rigor required for pyrophoric materials shall be
the disposal method. stabilized or treated to become
a nonflammable waste.
(1) The acceptable
physical characteristics of (f) Gaseous LLRW must be
LLRW and the containers it is packaged at less than
disposed in are determined by 1.5 atmospheres pressure at
conditions on the disposal 20 degrees Celsius and each
site's radioactive material container will not contain more
license. Exemptions may be than 100 Ci total.
applied for and are granted if
there is no increase in the (g) LLRW containing
hazards or risk to the public hazardous, biologic, pathogenic
and environment. or infectious material must be
treated to reduce the potential
(2) Some LLRW restrictions hazard from the non-
applied at disposal facilities radiological materials.
include the following:
(h) LLRW must possess
(a) Waste may not be structural stability to avoid
packaged in cardboard or degrading the containment and
fiberboard boxes. the site. It will generally
maintain its physical
(b) Liquid LLRW must be dimensions and form under the
solidified or packaged in expected disposal conditions.
sufficient absorbent material. Conditions to consider in
Solid LLRW containing liquid assessing structural stability
shall contain as little free include weight of overburden,
noncorrosive liquid as presence of moisture, microbial
possible, not to exceed activity, radiation effects,
one percent by volume. and chemical changes. The
waste form itself may provide
(c) LLRW must not be structural stability before or
capable of detonation, after processing; or the waste
explosion, or any other violent may be placed in structurally
decomposition under ordinary stable containers or structures
disposal unit conditions. for disposal. Generally, only
those stabilization media which
(d) LLRW shall not contain have been evaluated according
or generate quantities of toxic to the stability guidance
fumes or gases during handling, requirements of the NRC's Low
transport, or disposal. Level Licensing Branch,
Technical Position on Waste
(e) LLRW must not be Form, are considered acceptable

9-6
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

media. Liquid LLRW must be stability than Class A.

converted to a form containing Class B LLRW is more highly
as little free-standing and radioactive than Class A.
noncorrosive liquid as
reasonably achievable. The (2)Class B LLRW has
volumetric content of the LLRW concentrations greater than
part of liquid or solid waste column 1 and less than column 2
will not exceed 1 percent of a as shown in Table 9-2.
single container or 0.5 percent
of the volume of waste e. Class C.
processed to a stable form.
Void spaces within the waste (1) Class C LLRW must meet
and between the waste and its the most rigorous standards on
package will be reduced as much waste form stability and
as reasonably possible. additional measures at the
disposal facility to protect
c. Class A LLRW. against inadvertent intrusion.

(1) Class A LLRW is waste (2) Class C LLRW has

that does not contain concentrations greater than
sufficient amounts of column 2 and less than column
radionuclides to be of concern 3, and less than column 5 as
with respect to migration, long shown in Table 9-2.
term active site maintenance,
and potential exposure to f. Greater than Class C.
intruders. Class A LLRW tends
to be stable. Class A LLRW is (1) Waste classified as
usually segregated from other greater than Class C is not
waste classes at the disposal suitable for near surface
site. Class A LLRW must meet disposal.
the minimum h a n d ling
characteristics required and (2) Greater than Class C
described above. LLRW has concentrations greater
than column 5.
(2) Class A LLRW has
concentrations less than 9-9. Radionuclide
columns 1 and 4 as shown in Concentrations.
Table 9-2, Concentration/
Activity Levels for LLRW Concentrations may be measured
Classification. directly or calculated if there
is reasonable assurance of
d. Class B. correlation to direct
measurements. Indirect methods
(1) Class B LLRW must meet of concentration determination
more rigorous standards for include inference of one

9-7
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

nuclide concentration from that tions may be averaged by weight

of another which is directly or by volume.
measured, and material
inventory records. Concentra-

Table 9-2
Concentration/activity levels for LLRW Classification
Concentration Col. 1 Col. 2 Col. 3 Col.4 Col. 5
Nuclide Ci/m3 Ci/m3 Ci/m3 Ci/m3 Ci/m3
C-14 0.8 8
C-14 activated 8 80
metal
Ni-59 activated 22 220
metal
Nb-94 activated 0.02 0.2
metal
Tc-99 0.3 3
I-129 0 8
TRU with 10 100
halflife > 5 yrs. nCi/g nCi/g
Pu-241 350 3500
nCi/g nCi/g
Cm-242 2,000 20,000
nCi/g nCi/g
all halflives < 5 700
yrs.
H-3 40
Co-60 700
Ni-63 3.5 70 700
Ni-63 activated 35 700 7000
metal
Sr-90 0.04 150 7000
Cs-137 1 44 4600
Mixtures are determined by the sum of the fractions rule.

9-8
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30 May 97

Chapter 10. Laser Safety. damaging to the eye.

As stated in Chapter 2, any (3) Class III - Can damage

Command whose personnel are the eye during momentary
occupationally exposed to class intrabeam exposure.
IIIb or class IV lasers shall
have a Laser Safety Officer (a) - Class IIIA:
(LSO). The LSO shall ensure intermediate power lasers (1-5
that personnel exposure to mW). Only hazardous for
laser radiation is kept within intrabeam viewing.
guidelines listed in ANSI
Z136.1 and ANSI Z136.3, and (b) - Class IIIB:
that work with lasers is moderate power lasers ( 5-500
accomplished in accordance with mW). In general Class IIIB
OSHA regulations as stated in lasers will not be a fire
29 CFR 1926.54, and USACE hazard, nor are they generally
guidance in EM 385-1-1. This capable of producing a
shall be accomplished by hazardous diffuse reflection.
establishing and ensuring
compliance with a Laser (4) Class IV - May damage
Protection Program. the skin as well as the eye
during momentary intrabeam
10-1. Classifications of exposure or exposure to diffuse
lasers. reflection. These lasers may be
fire hazards and may produce
a. Lasers are classified laser generated air
by their hazard capabilities. contaminants(ozone) and plasma
The ANSI Z136.1 standard radiation.
accurately defines the
classifications of lasers 10-2 Safety Features and
depending on the power output Labeling Requirements.
and light wavelength, but in
general the classifications are The Department of Health and
as follows: Human Services in 21 CFR 1000-
1050, the ANSI standards, and
(1) Class I - Cannot USACE EM 385-1-1 require that
produce hazardous radiation. certain engineered safety
These devices may contain an features and labeling be used
embedded class IIIb or class IV with the different classes of
laser. lasers. Table 10-1 cross-
references the safety features
(2) Class II - Continuous and label requirements for each
intrabeam exposure may damage class of lasers. Examples of
the eye. Momentary intrabeam laser labels and area postings
exposure (<0.25 second) is not are included in Appendix F.

10-1
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Lasers may have additional additional labeling

safety features or labeling requirements.
requirements. Check the
manufacturer’s manual for

TABLE 10-1
Laser Safety Features and Labeling Requirements
Safety Feature Class
Safety Features I II III IV
Protective Housing X X X X
Safety Interlock X X X X
Remote Connector X X
Key Control X X
Emission Indicator X X X
Beam attenuator X X X
Labels I II III IV
Certification and Manufacturer X X X X
Class Designation and Warning Logotype X X X
Aperture Label X X X
Radiation Output X X X
Non-interlocked Protective Housing X X X

10-3. Laser Protection Program. b. A list of training

requirements for operators and
A Laser Protection Program, as bystanders,
required for Commands where
personnel may be exposed to c. A description of the
class IIIa, class IIIb or class types and hazard potentials for
IV laser radiation should the types of lasers used in the
consist of the following Command,
elements:
d. A description of laser
a. A list of personnel safety measures used in the
responsibilities and Command,
qualifications,

10-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

e. A compendium of h. The beam shall not be

Standing Operating Procedures
for the lasers used within the
Command,
f. An emergency response
plan.
10-4. OSHA standards.
OSHA 29 CFR 1926.54 addresses
worker exposure to non-ionizing
radiation. OSHA requires that:
a. Only qualified and
trained personnel work with
laser equipment,
b. Proof of qualification
shall be carried by the
operator,
c. If the potential for
exposure to direct or reflected
laser light above the exposure
limit exists, then workers will
be furnished with acceptable
eye protection,
d. Laser work areas must
be properly posted,
e. Beam shutters and caps
must be utilized,
f. Unattended lasers shall
be shut off,
directed at employees,
i. Lasers shall not be
used in the rain or in foggy
conditions if possible,
j. Each laser shall be
labeled to indicate its maximum
output,
k. Lasers shall be used
above the heads of personnel
when possible; and
l. Employees shall not be
exposed to light intensities
above the exposure limits.
10-5. USACE Standards.
The Army and USACE have adopted
the current American Conference
of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold
Limit Values (TLVs) as the
limits for employee exposure to
lasers. The ACGIH TLVs are
essentially the same as the
ANSI Z136.1 standards. TLVs are
dependent upon the wavelength
of the light and the duration
of exposure. Consult with the
Command Laser Protection
Officer to determine the TLV
for each laser used within the
Command.

g. Only mechanical or 10-6. Protective eyewear.

electrical means will be used
for beam alignment; beam Protective goggles may be
alignment will not be made by required when using some
eye. lasers. The protection factor
of goggles depends on the
wavelength of the laser light

10-3
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

and the amount of energy the wavelengths for which they

laser can deposit at the site provide protection, their
of exposure. The exact optical optical density at those
density required for any wavelengths, and the amount of
specific laser use scenario may visible light that the goggles
be calculated using equations transmit. The LSO should
in ANSI Z136.1, or Table 10-2 verify the optical density
may be used. Goggles must have calculation.
a label listing the laser

Table 10-2
Optical Density Requirements

Intensity, Optical Density Attenuation Factor

Continuous Wave Max.
Power Density
(watts/cm2)
0.01 5 10,000
0.1 6 100,000
1.0 7 1,000,000
10.0 8 10,000,000

10-4
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Chapter 11. Radio Frequency centimeter) power density

(RF) and Microwave Safety. averaged over six minutes, or 1
mW-hr/cm2 energy density
11-1. DA Limits. averaged over 6 minutes.
OSHA also requires that a
The DOD and DA, in DODI standard radio frequency
6055.11, have adopted the IEEE radiation hazard sign be used
C95.1-1991, IEEE Standard for to notify employees of possible
Safety Levels with Respect to exposure.
Human Exposure to Radio
Frequency (RF) Electromagnetic 11-4. General Guidance.
Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz
maximum permissible exposure to a. As with all radiation,
RF levels. The guiding only personnel who have been
principle is that no practice trained in the safe use of the
shall be adopted or operation equipment should work with the
conducted involving planned equipment. Similarly, only
exposure to RF levels in excess trained personnel, using
of the applicable Permissible calibrated instrumentation,
Exposure Limit (PEL). should be used to assess,
survey or evaluate non-ionizing
11-2. USACE Limits. radiation fields, personnel
exposures and control measure
USACE, in compliance with DODI determinations.
6055.11, has adopted the IEEE
maximum permissible exposure b. NOTE: Non-ionizing
levels for a controlled area. radiation TLVs may not protect
These PELs are presented in against electromagnetic
Table 11-1. Maximum PEL’s for interference with cardiac
uncontrolled environments are pacemakers. Persons wearing
presented in Table 11-2. pacemakers should check the
manufacturer’s literature to
11-3. OSHA Regulations. ensure TLVs are adequate to
avoid interference.
OSHA set a radiation protection
guide for non-ionizing c. The basic dosimetric
radiation, including parameter for RF exposure is
electromagnetic radiation. The the Specific Absorption Rate
radiation protection guide is a (SAR). The SAR of 0.4 watts per
level of radiation which should kilogram has been set as the
not be exceeded without careful maximum exposure for humans.
consideration of the reasons This is a factor of 10 below
for doing so. The OSHA the level of exposure
radiation protection guide is determined to potentially cause
10 mW/cm2 (milliwatts/square deleterious effects in humans.

11-1
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30 May 97

The PELs are listed in terms of c. RF protective clothing

measurable field parameters shall not be used as a routine
that act as a convenient method of protecting personnel
correlation to the SAR. from RF levels that exceed the
PELs.
d. There are exceptions to
the listed PELs for certain 11-6. RF Safety Training.
exposures and situations. These
are listed in DODI 6055. USACE personnel routinely
working with equipment that
11-5. Warning Signs. emits RF levels that may exceed
the PELs shall receive training
a. RF warning signs are from the SOHO, addressing:
required to be posted at all
access points to areas where a. the potential hazards
levels exceed the PELs. Posting of RF,
should be determined and
maintained by the Safety and b. procedures and
Occupational Health Office restrictions to control RF
(SOHO). exposures, and

b. Where 10 times the PELs c. their responsibility to

are exceeded, other warning limit their RF exposure.
devices, such as flashing
lights, audible signals, Timely refresher training in RF
barriers or interlocks should safety shall be incorporated
be used. into other periodic safety
training programs.

11-2
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Table 11-1
Radio Frequency/Microwave Permissible Exposure Limits for
Controlled Environments
Part A-Electromagnetic Fields
(f = frequency in MHZ)
Frequency Power Electric Magnetic Averaging
Density, Field Field Time E2, H2
S Strength Strength or S
(mW/cm2) (V/m) (A/m) (minutes)
30 kHz-100 kHz 102, 106 614 163 6
100 kHz-3 MHZ 102, 614 16.3/f 6
104/f2
3 MHZ-30 MHZ 900/f2, 1842/f 16.3/f 6
104/f2
30 MHZ-100 MHZ 1.0, 61.4 16.3/f 6
104/f2
100 MHZ-300 MHZ 1 61.4 0.163 6
300 MHZ-3 GHz f/300 6
3 GHz-15 GHz 10 6
15 GHz-300 GHz 10 616,000/f1.2
The exposure values in terms of electric and magnetic field strengths are the values obtained by spatially averaging
values over an area equivalent to the vertical cross-section of the human body (projected area).

Part B-Induced and Contact Radio Frequency Currents*

Maximum Current (mA)
Frequency Through Through Contact
Both Feet Each Foot
30 kHz-100 kHz 2000f 1000f 1000f
100 kHz-100 MHZ 200 100 100
* It should be noted that the current limits given above may not adequately protect against startle reactions and
burns caused by transient discharges when contacting an energized object.

11-3
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30 May 97

Part C-Pulsed RF Fields

Frequency Peak Electric Peak Power Density/ Pulse
Field for Pulse Durations < 100
(kV/m) msec.
(mW/cm2)
100 kHz - 300 GHz 100 (PEL)(Tavg)/5 (pulse width)
Part D-Partial Body Exposures
Frequency Peak Value of Equivalent Power Density
Mean Squared (mW/cm2)
Field
(V2/m2 or A2/m2)
100 kHz - 300 MHZ <20*E2 or <20*H2
300 MHZ - 6 GHz <20*E2 or <20*H2 <20
6 GHZ - 96 GHZ <20*E2 or <20*H2 <20(f/6000)0.25
96 GHz - 300 GHZ <20*E2 or <20*H2 40

V2/m2: volts squared / meter squared = E (electric field)

squared.

A2/m2: amps squared / meter squared = H (magnetic field) squared.

Tavg: average pulse time.

11-4
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Table 11-2
Radio Frequency/Microwave Permissible Exposure Limits for
Uncontrolled Environments
Part A-Electromagnetic Fields
(f = frequency in MHZ)
Frequency Power Electric Magnetic Averaging
Density, Field Field Time E2,
S Strength Strength H2 or S
(mW/cm2) (V/m) (A/m) (minutes)
30 kHz-100 kHz 102, 106 614 163 6, 6
100 kHz-134 kHz 102, 614 16.3/f 6, 6
104/f2
134 kHz - 3 MHZ 180/f2, 823.8/f 16.3/f f2/0.3, 6
104/f2
3 MHZ-30 MHZ 180/f2, 823.8/f 16.3/f 30, 6
104/f2
30 MHZ-100 MHZ 0.2, 27.5 158.3/ 30,
9.4X105/ f1.1668 0.0636f1337
f3.36
100 MHZ-300 MHZ 0.2 27.5 0.0729 30, 30
300 MHZ-3 GHZ - f/1500 30, -
3 GHZ-15 GHZ - f/1500 90,000/f
15 GHZ-300 GHZ - 10 616,000/f1.2
The exposure values in terms of electric and magnetic field strengths are the values obtained by spatially averaging
values over an area equivalent to the vertical cross-section of the human body (projected area).

Part B-Induced and Contact Radio Frequency Currents*

Maximum Current (mA)
Frequency Through Through Contact
Both Feet Each Foot
30 kHz-100 kHz 900f 450f 450f
100 kHz-100 MHZ 90 45 45

11-5
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

* It should be noted that the current limits given above may not adequately protect against startle reactions and
burns caused by transient discharges when contacting an energized object

Part C-Pulsed RF Fields

Frequency Peak Electric Field Peak Power Density/
(kV/m) Pulse for Pulse
Durations < 100
msec.
(mW/cm2)
100 kHz - 300 GHZ 100 PEL)(Tavg)/5 (pulse
width)

Part D-Partial Body Exposures

Frequency Peak Value of Mean Equivalent Power
Squared Field Density (mW/cm2)
(V2/m2 or A2/m2)
100 kHz - 300 MHZ <20*E2 or <20*H2
300 MHZ - 6 GHZ <20*E2 or <20*H2 <4
6 GHz - 96 GHZ <20*E2 or <20*H2 f/1500
96 GHz - 300 <20*E2 or <20*H2 20
GHZ

V2/m2: volts squared / meter squared = E (electric field)

squared.

A2/m2: amps squared / meter squared = H (magnetic field) squared.

Tavg: average pulse time.

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Appendix A. References. AR 755-15 Disposal of Unwanted

Radioactive Material
A-1. DA and DOD references.
(Most current revisions) EM 385-1-1 Safety and Health
Requirements Manual
DODI 6055.8 Occupational
Radiation Protection Program ER 385-1-80 Ionizing Radiation
Protection
DODI 6055.11 Protection of DOD
Personnel from Exposure to ER 385-1-92 USACE Safety and
Radio frequency Radiation and Occupational Health Document
Military Exempt Lasers for Hazardous, Toxic and
Radiological Waste (HTRW)
AR 40-5 Preventive Medicine Activities

AR 11-34 Respiratory Protection TM 3-220 C h e m i c a l ,

Biological and Radiological
AR 40-13 Medical Support- Decontamination
Nuclear/Chemical Accidents and
Incidents TM 3-261 Handling and Disposal
of Unwanted Radioactive
AR 40-14 Control and Recording Materials
Procedures for Exposure to
Ionizing Radiation and TM 38-250 Packaging and
Radioactive Materials Handling: Hazardous Materials

AR 50-5 Nuclear Surety TM 55-315 Transportability

Guidance for the Safe Transport
AR 50-7 Army Reactor Program of Radioactive Materials

AR 200-1 Environmental FM 3-15 Nuclear Accident and

Protection and Enhancement Contamination Control

AR 385-11 Ionizing Radiation USAIRDP U.S. Army Ionizing

Protection Radiation Dosimetry Program
Customer Handbook
AR 385-32 Protective Clothing
and Equipment
A-2. NRC Reg. Guides.
AR 385-40 Accident Reporting
and Records RG 1.86 Termination of
Operating licenses for Nuclear
AR 385-80 Nuclear Reactor Reactors. 6/74
Health and Safety
RG 8.7 Instructions for

A-1
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30 May 97

recording and Reporting RG 8.34 Monitoring Criteria and

Occupational Radiation Exposure Methods to Calcul ate
Data. (6/92) Occupational Radiation Doses.
(7/92)
RG 8.8 Information Relevant to
Ensuring that Occupational RG 8.36 Radiation Doses to the
Exposures at Nuclear Power Embryo/Fetus. (7/92)
Stations will be ALARA. (6/78)
RG 10.7 Guide for the
RG 8.9 Acceptable Concepts, Preparation of Applications for
Models, Equations and Licenses for Laboratory and
Assumptions for a Bioassay Industrial Use of Small
program. 1993 Quantities of Byproduct
Material. (8/79)
RG DG-8009 Interpretation of
Bioassay Measurements (5/95) RG 10.8 Guide for the
Preparation of Applications for
RG App X. Guidance on Complying Medical Use Programs. (8/87)
with New Part 20 Requirements.
1992 FC 407-4 Guide for the
Preparation of Applications for
RG 8.10 Operating philosophy Licenses for the Use of Sealed
for Maintaining Occupational Sources in Portable Gauging
Radiation Exposure ALARA. Devices. (1/85)
(9/75)

RG 8.13 Instruction Concerning A-3. NRC Information notices.

Prenatal Radiation Exposure.
(3/75) IN 80-32 Clarification of
Certain Requirements for
RG 8.25 Air Sampling in the Exclusive Use Shipments of
Workplace. (6/92) Radioactive Materials. 1980

RG 8.29 Instruction Concerning IN 86-54 Criminal Prosecution

Risks from Occupational of a Former Radiation
Radiation Exposure. (7/81) Protection Officer Who
Willfully Directed an
RG DG-8012 (Draft Revision 1 to Unqualified Individual to
RG 8.29) Instruction Concerning Perform Radiography. 1986
Risks from Occupational
Exposure (3/95) IN 89-25 Unauthorized Transfer
of Ownership or Control of
RG 8.33 Quality Management Licensed Activities. 1989
Program. (10/91)
IN 90-09 Extended Interim

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Storage of L o w - L evel A-5. Code of Federal

Radioactive Waste by Fuel Cycle Regulations.
and Materials Licensees. 1990
Title 10 CFR ‘Energy’ Chapter
IN 90-35 Transportation of Type 1, Nuclear Regulatory
A Quantities of Non-Fissile Commission
Radioactive Materials. 1990
Title 21 CFR ‘Food and Drugs’
IN 91-03 Management of Wastes
Contaminated with Radioactive Title 29 CFR ‘Labor’
Materials. 1991
Title 40 CFR ‘Protection of
IN 91-23 Accidental Radiation Environment’
Overexposures to Personnel Due
to Industrial Radiography Title 49 CFR ‘Transportation’
Accessory Equipment
Malfunctions. 1991
A-6. Standards and other
IN 91-49 Enforcement of Safety guidance.
Requirements for Radiographers.
1991 ACGIH Threshold Limit Values
and Biological Indices.
IN 91-71 Training and
Supervision of Individuals ANSI Z136.1, ‘American National
Supervised by an Authorized Standard for Safe Use of
User. 1991 Lasers’.

IN 93-30 NRC Requirements for ANSI Z136.3, ‘Safe Use of

Evaluation of Wipe Test Lasers in Health Care
Results; Calibration of Count Facilities;’.
Rate Survey Instruments. 1993
IEEE C95.1-1991, IEEE Standard
IN 94-21 Regulatory for Safety Levels with Respect
Requirements When No Operations to Human Exposure to Radio
Are Being Performed. 1994 Frequency electromagnetic
Fields, 3kHz to 300 Ghz.

A-4. NRC policy and guidance IEEE C95.3-1991, ‘IEEE

directives. Recommended Practice for the
Measurement of Potentially
PG 2-07 Standard Review Plan Hazardous Electromagnetic
for Applications for the Use of Fields-RF and Microwave’.
Sealed Sources in Portable
Gauging Devices. 1994

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Appendix B. Definitions. amount of radioactive material

taken into the body of an adult
ABSORBED DOSE - The amount of worker by inhalation or
energy imparted to matter by ingestion a year.
ionizing radiation per unit
mass of irradiated material. ATOM - Smallest particle of an
(See Rad) element which is capable of
entering into a chemical
ABSORPTION - The phenomenon by reaction.
which radiation imparts some or
all of its energy to any BACKGROUND RADIATION - Ionizing
material through which it radiation arising from
passes. radioactive material other than
the one directly under
ACTIVITY - The number of consideration. Background
nuclear d i s i n t e g r a t ions radiation due to cosmic rays
occurring in a given quantity and natural radioactivity is
of material per unit time. (See always present. There may also
curie) be background radiation due to
the presence of radioactive
ALPHA PARTICLE - A strongly substances in other parts of
ionizing particle emitted from the building, in the building
the nucleus during radioactive material itself, etc.
decay having a mass and charge
equal in magnitude to a helium BETA PARTICLE - Charged
nucleus, consisting of 2 particle emitted from the
protons and 2 neutrons with a nucleus of an atom, having a
double positive charge. mass and charge equal in
magnitude to that of the
ALPHA RAY - A stream of fast- electron.
moving helium nuclei (alpha
particles), a strongly ionizing BETA RAY - A stream of high
and weakly penetrating speed electrons or positrons of
radiation. nuclear origin more penetrating
but less ionizing than alpha
ANNIHILATION (Electron) - An rays.
interaction between a positive
and negative electron; their B R E M S S T R A H L U N G -
energy, including rest energy, Electromagnetic (x-ray)
being converted into radiation associated with the
electromagnetic radiation deceleration of charged
(annihilation radiation). particles passing through
matter. Usually associated
ANNUAL LIMIT OF INTAKE (ALI) - with energetic beta emitters
Means the derived limit for the (for example, phosphorus-32).

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CALIBRATION - Determination of which will result in the

variation from standard, or
accuracy, of a measuring
instrument to ascertain
necessary correction factors.
COMMITTED DOSE EQUIVALENT (CDE)
- (HT,50) Means the dose
equivalent to organs or tissues
of reference (T) that will be
received from an intake of
radioactive material by an
individual during the 50 year
period following the intake.
COMMITTED EFFECTIVE DOSE
EQUIVALENT (CEDE) - (Hg,50) Is
the sum of the products of the
weighting factors applicable to
each of the body organs or
tissues that are irradiated and
the Committed Dose Equivalent
to these organs or tissues.
greatest hazard to the health
of the individual or his or her
descendants.
CURIE - The quantity of any
radioactive material in which
the number of disintegrations
is 3.700 x 1010 per second.
Abbreviated Ci.
Millicurie - One-thousandth
of a curie (3.7 x 107
disintegrations per second).
Abbreviated mCi.
Microcurie - One-millionth of
a curie (3.7 x 104
disintegrations per second).
Abbreviated µCi.
Picocurie - One-millionth of
a microcurie (3.7 x 10-2
disintegrations per second or
2.22 disintegrations per
minute). Abbreviated pCi.

CONTAMINATION, RADIOACTIVE - DECAY, RADIOACTIVE -

Deposition of radioactive
material in any place where it
is not desired, and
particularly in any place where
the presence may be harmful.
COUNT (Radiation Measurements)
- The external indication of a
device designed to enumerate
ionizing events. It may refer
to a single detected event or
to the total registered in a
given period of time. The term
is often erroneously used to
designate a disintegration,
ionizing event, or voltage
pulse.
Disintegration of the nucleus
of an unstable nuclide by the
spontaneous emission of charged
particles and/or photons.
DECLARED PREGNANT WORKER -
Means a women who has
voluntarily informed her
employer, in writing, of her
pregnancy and the estimated
date of conception.
DEEP DOSE EQUIVALENT (DDE) -
(Hd) Which applies to external
whole-body exposure, is the
dose equivalent at a tissue
depth of 1 cm (1000 mg/cm2).

CRITICAL ORGAN - That organ or DERIVED AIR CONCENTRATIONS

tissue, the irradiation of (DAC) - Means the concentration

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 EM 385-1-80
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of a given radionuclide in air the rem, which is numerically

which, if breathed by the equal to the absorbed dose in
reference man for a working rads multiplied by certain
year of 2,000 hours under modifying factors such as the
conditions of light work quality factor, the
(inhalation rate 1.2 m3/hr), distribution factor, etc.
results in an intake of one
ALI. EFFECTIVE DOSE EQUIVALENT (EDE)
- (HE) Is the sum of the
DETERMINISTIC (NON-STOCHASTIC products of the dose equivalent
EFFECTS) - Means health to organ or tissue (HT) and the
effects, the severity of which weighting factors (W T )
varies with dose and for which applicable to each of the body
a threshold is believed to organs or tissues that are
exist. Radiation-induced irradiated.
cataract formation is an
example of a deterministic EFFICIENCY, INTRINSIC - A
effect (also called a non- measure of the probability that
stochastic effect). a count will be recorded when
radiation is incident on a
DOSE - A general term denoting detector. Usage varies
the quantity of radiation or considerably so it is well to
energy absorbed in a specified make sure which factors
mass. For special purposes, it (window, transmission,
must be appropriately qualified sensitive volume, energy
(for example, absorbed dose). dependence, etc.) are included
in a given case.
DOSE, ABSORBED - The energy
imparted to matter by ionizing EFFICIENCY, ABSOLUTE - A
radiation per unit mass of measure of the probability that
irradiated material at the a count will be recorded when
place of interest. The unit of radiation is emitted by the
absorbed dose is the rad (or source. Absolute efficiency
prefixed forms of the unit such includes intrinsic efficiency,
as millirad); which is but also includes geometric
100 ergs/gram. The SI unit for factors.
the rad is the gray. 1 gray =
100 rads. ELECTRON - Negatively charged
elementary particle which is a
DOSE, EQUIVALENT - A quantity constituent of every neutral
used in radiation protection atom. Its unit of negative
expressing all radiation on a electricity equals 4.8 x 10-19
common scale for calculating coulombs. Its mass is 0.00549
the effective absorbed dose. atomic mass units.
The unit of dose equivalent is

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ELECTRON CAPTURE - A mode of 0.3 centimeter (300 mg/cm2).

radioactive decay involving the
capture of an orbital electron FILM BADGE - A packet of
by its nucleus. Capture from photographic film used for the
the particular electron shell approximate measurement of
is designated as "K-electron radiation exposure for
capture," "L-electron capture," personnel monitoring purposes.
etc. The badge may contain two or
more films of differing
ELECTRON VOLT - A unit of sensitivity, and it may contain
energy equivalent to the amount filters which shield parts of
of energy gained by an electron the film from certain types of
in passing through a potential radiation.
difference of 1 volt.
Abbreviated eV. Larger GAMMA RAY - Very penetrating
multiple units of the electron electromagnetic radiation of
volt frequently used are: keV nuclear origin. Except for
for thousand or kiloelectron origin, identical to x-ray.
volts, MeV for million electron
volts and BeV for billion GEIGER-MUELLER (G-M) COUNTER -
electron volts. Highly sensitive gas-filled
detector and associated
EXPOSURE - A measure of the circuitry used for radiation
ionization produced in air by x detection and measurement.
or gamma radiation. It is the
sum of the electrical charges GENETIC EFFECT OF RADIATION -
on all ions of one sign Inheritable changes, chiefly
produced in air when all mutations, produced by the
electrons liberated by photons absorption of ionizing
in volume element of air are radiation. On the basis of
completely stopped in air, present knowledge these effects
divided by the mass of air in are purely additive, and there
the volume element. The is no recovery.
special unit of exposure is the
roentgen. HALF-LIFE, BIOLOGICAL -(B1/2)
The time required for the body
EXTREMITY - Means hand, elbow, to eliminate one-half of an
arm below the elbow, foot, administered dose of any
knee, or leg below the knee. substance by the regular
processes of elimination. This
EYE DOSE EQUIVALENT (LDE) - time is approximately the same
Applies to the external for both stable and
exposure of the lens of the eye radionuclides of a particular
and is taken as the dose element.
equivalent at a tissue depth of

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HALF-LIFE, EFFECTIVE -(E1/2) of that distance. For example:

Time required for a radioactive
nuclide in a system to be
diminished 50 percent as a
result of the combined action
of radioactive decay and
biological elimination.
E1/2 = (B1/2 x T1/2)/(B1/2 + T1/2)
HALF-LIFE, RADIOACTIVE - (T1/2)
Time required for a radioactive
substance to lose 50 percent of
its activity by decay. Each
radionuclide has a unique half-
life.
If the radiation exposure is
100 R/hr at 1 inch from a
source, the exposure will be
0.01 R/hr at 100 inches.
ION - Atomic particle, atom, or
chemical radical bearing an
electrical charge, either
negative or positive.
IONIZATION - The process by
which a neutral atom or
molecule acquires either a
positive or a negative charge.

HALF VALUE LAYER (Half IONIZATION CHAMBER - An

thickness) - The thickness of instrument designed to measure
any specified material the quantity of ionizing
necessary to reduce the radiation in terms of the
intensity of an x-ray or gamma charge of electricity
ray beam to one half its associated with ions produced
original value. within a defined volume.

HEALTH PHYSICS - The science IONIZATION, SPECIFIC - The

concerned with recognition, number of ion pairs per unit
evaluation and control of length of path of ionizing
health hazards from ionizing radiation in a medium (for
and non-ionizing radiation. example, per centimeter of air
or per micron of tissue).
HIGH RADIATION AREA - Means an
area accessible to individuals, IONIZING RADIATION - Any
in which radiation levels could electromagnetic or particulate
result in an individual radiation capable of producing
receiving a dose equivalent in ions, directly or indirectly,
excess of 0.1 rem (1 mSv) in 1 in its passage through matter.
hour at 30 centimeters from the
radiation source or from any ISOTOPES - Nuclides having the
surface that the radiation same number of protons in their
penetrates. nuclei, and hence having the
same atomic number, but
INVERSE SQUARE LAW - The differing in the number of
intensity of radiation at any neutrons, and therefore in the
distance from a point source mass number. Almost identical
varies inversely as the square chemical properties exist

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between isotopes of a individual in a restricted area

particular element. or in the course of employment
in which the individual's
MILLIROENTGEN (mR) - A assigned duties involve
submultiple of the roentgen exposure to ionizing radiation
equal to one one-thousandth or radioactive material from
(1/1000th) of a roentgen. licensed or unlicensed sources
of radiation, whether in the
MONITORING, RADIOLOGICAL - possession of the licensee or
Periodic or continuous another person. Occupational
determination of the amount of exposure does not include
ionizing radiation or exposure to background
radioactive contamination radiation, as a patient in
present in an occupied region medical practices, from
as a safety measure for voluntary application in
purposes of health protection. medical programs, or as a
For example, Area Monitoring: member of the general public.
Routine monitoring of the level
of radiation or of radioactive PLANNED SPECIAL EXPOSURE (PSE)
contamination of any particular - Means an infrequent exposure
area, building, room or to radiation, separate from and
equipment. Personnel in addition to the annual NRC
Monitoring: Monitoring any (Tier 1)dose limit.
part of an individual, or any
part of his clothing (See PROTECTIVE BARRIERS - Barriers
Radiological Survey). of radiation absorbing
material, such as lead,
NEUTRON - Elementary particle concrete, plaster, and plastic,
with a mass approximately the that are used to reduce
same as that of a hydrogen atom radiation exposure.
and electrically neutral. It Protective Barriers,Primary:
has a half-life in minutes and Barriers sufficient to
decays in a free state into a attenuate the useful beam to
proton and an electron. the required degree.
Protective Barriers, Secondary:
NUCLIDE - A species of atom Barriers sufficient to
characterized by its mass attenuate stray or scattered
number, atomic number, and radiation to the required
energy state of its nucleus, degree.
provided that the atom is
capable of existing for a RADIATION - 1. The emission and
measurable time. propagation of energy through
space or through a material
OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE: The medium in the form of waves;
exposure received by an for instance, the emission and

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propagation of electromagnetic processes using or affecting

waves, or of sound and elastic these materials to predict
waves. 2. The energy hazards resulting from expected
propagated through a material or possible changes in
medium as waves; for example, materials or equipment.
energy in the form of
electromagnetic waves or of RADIONUCLIDE - A nuclide with
elastic waves. The term an unstable ratio of neutrons
"radiation" or "radiant to protons placing the nucleus
energy," when unqualified, in a state of stress. In an
usually refers to attempt to reorganize to a more
electromagnetic radiation. stable state, it may undergo
Such radiation commonly is various types of rearrangement
classified according to that involve the release of
frequency as Hertzian, radiation.
infrared, visible (light),
ultraviolet, x-ray, and gamma RADIOTOXICITY - Term referring
ray. 3. By extension, to the potential of an isotope
corpuscular emissions, such as to cause damage to living
alpha and beta radiation, or tissue by absorption of energy
rays of mixed or unknown type, from the disintegration of the
as cosmic radiation. radioactive material introduced
into the body.
RADIATION AREA - Means an area,
accessible to individuals, in RELATIVE BIOLOGICAL
which radiation levels could EFFECTIVENESS (RBE) - For a
result in an individual particular living organism or
receiving a dose equivalent in part of an organism, the ratio
excess of 0.005 rem (0.05 mSv) of the absorbed dose of a
in 1 hour at 30 centimeters. reference radiation that
produces a specified biological
RADIATION SURVEY - Evaluation effect to the absorbed dose of
of the radiation hazards the radiation of interest that
incident to the production, use produces the same biological
or existence of radioactive effect.
materials or other sources of
radiation under a specific set REM - The special unit of dose
of conditions. Such evaluation equivalent. The dose
customarily includes a physical equivalent in rems is
survey of the disposition of numerically equal to the
materials and equipment, absorbed dose in rads
measurements or estimates of multiplied by the quality
the levels of radiation that factor, distribution factor,
may be involved, and a and any other necessary
sufficient knowledge of modifying factors.

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ROENTGEN (R) - The amount of X SIEVERT - The SI unit of dose

or gamma radiation below 3 MeV equivalent, 1 sievert (Sv)
in energy which produces 2.58E- equals 100 rem.
4 coulombs per kilogram (C/kg)
of dry air. The roentgen is the SMEAR (Smear or Swipe Test) - A
special unit of exposure. procedure in which a swab, for
example,, a circle of filter
SCINTILLATION COUNTER - A paper, is rubbed on a surface
counter in which light flashes and its radioactivity measured
produced in a scintillator by to determine if the surface is
ionizing radiation are contaminated with loose
converted into electrical radioactive material.
pulses by a photomultiplier
tube. SPECIFIC ACTIVITY - Total
radioactivity of a given
SHALLOW DOSE EQUIVALENT (SDE) - nuclide per gram of a compound,
(HS) Which applies to the element or radioactive nuclide.
external exposure of the skin
or an extremity, is taken as STOCHASTIC EFFECT - Means
the dose equivalent at a tissue health effects that occur
depth of 0.007 centimeters (7 randomly and for which the
mg/cm2) averaged over an area probability of the effect
of 1 square centimeter. occurring, rather than its
Shallow Dose Equivalent, Whole severity, is assumed to be a
Body (WB) means for purposes of linear function of dose without
external exposure, head, trunk threshold. Hereditary effects
(including male gonads), arms and cancer incidence are
above the elbow or legs above examples of stochastic effects.
the knee. Shallow Dose
Equivalent, Maximum Extremity TOTAL EFFECTIVE DOSE EQUIVALENT
(ME) means for purposes of (TEDE) - Means the sum of the
external exposure, arms below Deep Dose Equivalent (for
the elbow or legs below the external exposures) and the
knee. Committed Effective Dose
Equivalent (for internal
SHIELDING MATERIAL - Any exposures).
material which is used to
absorb radiation and thus TOTAL ORGAN DOSE EQUIVALENT
effectively reduce the (TODE) - Means the sum of the
intensity of radiation, and in Deep Dose Equivalent (Hd) and
some cases eliminate it. Lead, the Committed Dose Equivalent
concrete, aluminum, water, and (HT,50) to any individual organ
plastic are examples of or tissue, other than the lens
commonly used shielding of the eye, being equal to 50
material. rems (0.5 Sv).

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THERMOLUMINESCENT DOSIMETER - A stochastic effect resulting

dosimeter made of certain
crystalline material which is
capable of both storing a
fraction of absorbed ionizing
radiation and releasing this
energy in the form of visible
photons when heated. The
amount of light released can be
used as a measure of radiation
exposure to these crystals.
VERY HIGH RADIATION AREA -
Means an area, accessible to
individuals, in which radiation
levels could result in an
individual receiving an
absorbed dose in excess of 500
rads (5 grays) in 1 hour at a
meter from a radiation source
or from any surface that the
radiation penetrates.
WEIGHTING FACTORS (WT) - For an
organ or tissue (T) is the
proportion or the risk of
from irradiation of that organ
or tissue of the total risk of
stochastic effect when the
whole body is irradiated
uniformly.
X-RAYS - Penetrat ing
electromagnetic radiations
having wave lengths shorter
than those of visible light.
They are usually produced by
bombarding a metallic target
with fast electrons in a high
vacuum. In nuclear reactions
it is customary to refer to
photons originating in the
nucleus as gamma rays, and
those originating in the
extranuclear part of the atom
as x-rays. These rays are
sometimes called roentgen rays
after their discoverer, W.C.
Roentgen.

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Appendix C. Sample Standing Survey meter? _____

Operating Procedure (SOP) for
Using a Portable Gauge on Survey meter operability and
Location. batteries checked? _____

OPERATOR CHECKLIST Area signs? _____

Completed use log (Checked- TRANSPORTATION CHECKLIST

out)? _____
Shipping papers next to
Operator training driver? _____
current?___
Emergency procedures next to
Wearing dosimetry? ____ driver? _____

Licenses, permits, orders Packaging correct? _____

complete? ____
Type A package certificate in
EQUIPMENT CHECKLIST case? _____

Equipment in proper carrying Shipping labels?

case? _____
White-I (<0.5 mR/hr on
Operating Instructions in surface) _____
case? _____
Yellow-II(TI < 1 mR/hr at
Copy of license in case? _____ a meter & 0.5 to 50 mR/hr on
surface) _____
Copy of source certificate in
case? _____ Yellow-III (TI > 1 mR/hr &
< 50 mR/hr on surface) _____
Emergency Procedures in
case? _____ Markings? _____

Copy of latest leak test in Placards? _____

case? _____

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SOP when not under the direct

physical surveillance of
. Ensure all necessary the authorized user.
equipment is assembled, in
working order, with up-to- . Mark off and post
date calibrations, leak restricted zone(s) where
tests etc. equipment will be used.

. Ensure all paperwork for . Perform gauge test.

transport and use of the
equipment at the project . Pack up equipment.
site is complete.
. Perform operational check
. Package and load the of survey meter with check
equipment for shipment to source.
the site. Ensure that
equipment is secure in the . Perform sweep with survey
transport vehicle. meter to ensure no loss of
radioactive material.
. Ship equipment to the
site. . Move to next test location
on site.
. Upon arrival at the site,
inventory equipment to . Package and load the
ensure no loss. equipment for shipment
home.
. Source should be locked
in case when not in use. . Upon return inventory
equipment to ensure no
. Shipping case should be in loss, and secure equipment.
a locked storage location

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Appendix D. X-Ray Fluorescence either generally licensed (G),

Lead Analysis Devices. specifically licensed (S), or
both (B) (which, actually,
D-1. Description. means either generally licensed
or specifically licensed - this
X-ray fluorescence analysis is is left to the discretion of
an acceptable method for the licensing agency which has
measuring the lead content in jurisdiction). Prior to
painted surfaces. It is a purchasing or renting an XRF,
clean, non-destructive testing the agency which has
technique which provides jurisdiction in the proposed
immediate results. X-ray use location (either the NRC or
fluorescence analysis devices an AS) should be contacted to
(XRFs) employ a sealed source determine regulatory
of radioactive material. requirements.
Unfortunately, the regulation
of XRFs is permeated with D-2. Dose Potential.
inconsistencies. For example,
many models of XRFs contain a a. Most persons are not
sealed NARM source which is not aware that radiation dose-rates
regulated by the U.S. Nuclear from XRFs can be significant.
Regulatory Commission (NRC) but Dose-rates, with the shutter
which may be regulated by an open and in the unattenuated
Agreement State (AS). beam, for selected XRFs are
Additionally, XRFs may be given in Table D-1.

Table D-1
XRF Instruments
DEVICE ISOTOPE ACTIVITY SURFACE @ 12 INCHES
(Model) (mCi) (mR/hr) (mR/hr)

Warrington
Microlead I (G) Cobalt-57 10.8 180 6.0

Niton XL
Model 309 (S) Cadmium-109 10 (Not available) 10.44

Texas Nuclear Iron-55 45 2900 50

Metallurgist (B) Cadmium-109 5 232 50

Scitec FA1C (S)

Cobalt-57 40 (Not available) 29.3

Texas Nuclear Iron-55 100 375,000 188

Products Model Cadmium-109 10 13,000 14
9290 (B) Americium-241 10 1,000 1
Curium-244 100 9,600 10

D-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

b. According to the detection of 0.005 microcuries

Registry of Radioactive Sealed or more of removable
Sources and Devices, the dose radioactive material;
rate on the surface of the
Warrington Microlead I (a (6) shall neither abandon
device which may be generally nor export the XRF;
licensed) is 5 mR/hr with the
shutter closed. The need for (7) shall not transfer the
extremity monitoring (that is, XRF to a general licensee
finger or wrist TLDs) should be except where the device remains
evaluated for users of XRFs. in use at a particular location
and, when in storage, is in the
D-3. NRC Requirements. original shipping container;
and,
a. Whether an XRF is
generally licensed, (8) shall report radiation
specifically licensed or even incidents, theft, or loss.
if the device is rented, each
user of an XRF has distinct D-4. Specific Licensees.
responsibilities. Pursuant to
NRC and AS regulations, any a. An XRF specific
person who uses an XRF: licensee, or a person who rents
a specifically licensed XRF,
(1) shall assure that all will have to fulfill radiation
labels on the device are safety and XRF operation
maintained; training requirements. An
eight hour course will satisfy
(2) shall assure that it most regulatory agencies. The
is tested for leakage of course may be provided by the
radioactive material at XRF manufacturer, a consultant,
required intervals; or you may contact the HTRW-CX
to discuss training needs.
(3) shall assure proper
operation of the on-off b. There may be no
mechanism, if any; training requirements for an
XRF general licensee. In this
(4) shall suspend situation, it is strongly
operation of the XRF upon recommended that XRF operators
occurrence of (or an indication are at least made aware of the
of) failure or damage to the rudiments of radiation safety
shielding or the on-off and XRF operation in order to
mechanism; ensure that occupational doses
and doses to the general public
(5) shall suspend are kept ALARA.
operation of the XRF upon

D-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

D-5. Safety mechanisms. before the source can be

exposed. The Radiation
a. The engineering safety Monitoring Devices, Inc. Model
mechanisms differ significantly LPA-1 also has two independent
from device to device. For circuits which must indicate
example, both the Scitec FA1C the same shutter position
and the Texas Nuclear status for the system to
Metallurgist must be manually operate.
operated to place the source in
the open and closed positions. c. Users of XRFs must be
Neither requires a sample to be aware that these devices have
in place to expose the source. varying safety mechanisms.
Prior to use, a person should
b. Conversely, the know how the shutter operates,
Warrington Microlead I, the whether the device has any
Niton XL Model 309, and the alarms and what those alarms
Radiation Monitoring Devices, indicate, and what steps to
Inc. Model LPA-1 require the take in the event of a power
face plate of the probe to be failure.
pressed against a hard surface

D-3
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Appendix E. Rules of Thumb and for 1 MeV photons is about 1

Conversions. cm.

E-1. Rules of Thumb. The half value layer for Lead

for 1 MeV photons is about 1
Alpha particle cannot penetrate cm.
a piece of paper or the dead
layer of skin.
E-2. Conversions.
Beta particle can not penetrate
a book. 1 in2 = 6.4516 cm2

Beta particle Average Energy E= 1 ft2 = 0.0929 m2

1/3 Emax.
1 eV = 1.6021 x 10-19 joules
(absolute)
Beta particle dose rate is
about 300 R/hr per mCi. 10-7
1 erg = joules (absolute)
Gamma exposure at 1 foot is
1 ft = 0.3048 m
about 6*Ci*E, where E is in
MeV.
1 lb = 453.952 gm
Gamma exposure is reduced to
1 Ci = 3.7 x 1010 becquerel
1/4 by doubling the distance
from the source.
1 Ci = 3.7 x 1010
disintegration/sec
The activity of a nuclide is
reduced to less than 1% after 7
1 R = 2.58 x 10-4 C/kg of air
Half lives.
1 rad = 0.01 J/kg
The activity of a nuclide is
reduced to less than 0.1% after
1 dpm = 4.505 x 10-10 mCi.
10 Half lives.
1 ft3 = 2.832 x 10-2 m3
1 gram of Radium-226 emits 1 Ci
(3.7E10 dps) of radiation.
1 ft3 = 7.481 gal
The half value layer for Lead
55 gal = 7.35 ft3

E-1
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Appendix F. Signs, Labels and Postings.

F-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

F-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Appendix G. Radon. radon gas.

G-1. What is Radon? G-2. EPA’s Action Level.

Radon-222 (or “radon”) is a In December 1984, the Watra’s

naturally-occurring, chemically home in Pennsylvania drew
inert, radioactive gas. It is national attention when it was
odorless, invisible, and accidentally discovered to have
without taste; thus, it cannot a radon level of > 2000
be detected with the human picocuries per liter of air
senses. Radon can move easily (pCi/l). Scienti sts
through very small spaces (such investigating the home
as those between particles of determined that naturally
soil and rock) and it is occurring radon in the soil
moderately soluble in water. resulted in the extremely high
indoor radon level. Soon after
Radon is produced from the this discovery, EPA efforts
radioactive decay of the were underway to research
element radium. Radium is a indoor radon levels nationwide.
decay product of the naturally In 1986, EPA issued “A
occurring elements uranium and Citizen’s Guide to Radon: What
thorium. Radon has a half-life It Is and What to do About It.”
of 3.8 days and, therefore, has In this guide, EPA recommends
enough time to diffuse through that the annual average radon
dry, porous soils or to be concentration in lived-in areas
transported in water for a of a home be þ 4 pCi/l. That
considerable distance before it is, EPA’s recommended “action
decays. level” is 4 pCi/l.

The health hazard associated G-3. Radon Measurement

with radon itself is small Techniques.
since the majority of the radon
that is inhaled is also EPA has issued numerous reports
exhaled. Radon decays, describing radon measurement
however, into four daughter techniques and strategies.
products which can attach Briefly, EPA protocols specify
themselves to dust particles in that a short-term, screening
the air. When these dust measurement be initially
particles are inhaled, they may performed on the lowest level
be trapped in the lungs and of a structure with the test
irradiate the lung tissue. device placed in the ‘breathing
Lung cancer is the only known zone’ (for example, on a table)
health hazard associated with and away from sources of
exposure to elevated levels of humidity such as showers. The

G-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

screening measurement should be G-4. Radon Mitigation

conducted under “closed-house” Techniques.
conditions (that is, windows
and doors closed except for Radon enters a structure at a
normal entry and exit). Air rate determined by the
exchange systems, such as attic availability of radon at the
fans, should not be operating. exterior, the number and size
The test should be postponed if of entry routes, and the
severe storms with high winds pressure differential between
are expected during the test indoors and outdoors.
period. Mitigation techniques can
prevent radon entry into
Testing under the occupied spaces by manipulating
aforementioned conditions is pressure relationships and/or
considered a “worst case” by closing entry routes.
scenario. If the screening
measurement indicates the Soil depressurization involves
potential for an elevated radon the creation of a negative
concentration, a long-term pressure field in the soil
follow-up measurement is outside the structure so that
performed. the direction of airflow is
from the interior to exterior.
It should be noted that EPA’s This is typically accomplished
testing protocols are by using sub-slab suction.
applicable for typical
residential dwellings. It is Entry routes may be sealed by
recommended that an HP be covering exposed earth (sumps,
consulted before testing other drain areas, etc.) and sealing
types of structures. cracks in floors or walls where
radon can enter (utility pipe
Short-term measurements may be openings, holes in top row of
made utilizing a charcoal concrete blocks, floor drains,
canister (a 2 to 7 day test) or etc.).
an alpha-track detector
(usually, a 3-month test). G-5. DA and USACE Radon
Long-term measurements may also Programs.
be made with an alpha track
detector (a 12-month test). Both DA and USACE have adopted
EPA’s recommended action level
Radon measurement devices as an indoor radon standard.
should be analyzed by a AR 200-1, Chapter 11
laboratory which has been establishes a program for
determined proficient by the US measuring indoor radon in
EPA Radon Measurement existing buildings on Army
Proficiency Program. installations and in buildings

G-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

owned or leased by the Army.

The USACE Radon Program,
developed in conjunction with,
and a mirror of AR 200-1,
Chapter 11, can be found in
Memorandum, Subject: Guidance
for Radon Assessment and
Mitigation for the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers (USACE)
Civil, Research and Development
and Military Missions.

G-6. Agreement S tate

requirements.

Many Agreement States have

promulgated regulations which
pertain to radon measurement
professionals/businesses and
r a d o n m i t i g a t i o n
professionals/businesses. It
is recommended that, if
testing/mitigation is to be
done on property determined to
be under state jurisdiction, it
be determined whether there are
state regulations with which
USACE must comply.

G-3
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Appendix H. Applications and

License Examples, Applicable
Forms and Statements.

H-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Example Application for NRC License.

Application for a Radioactive Material License

US Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District
(An example of a completed NRC Form 313 is enclosed)

Item 5. RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL.

Max. Activity
Radionuclide Sealed Source Per Source

A. Cs-137 ABC Corp. Model C1 10 millicuries

B. Am-241:Be ABC Corp. Model A1 50 millicuries

Possession Limit Commitment

We will confine our possession of licensed material to quantities
such that we will not exceed the applicable limits in 10 CFR
30.35(d).

Data on Registration Certificates

Manufacturer/Distributor Registry Number Model Number

ABC Corp. AA-NNN-A-NNN-A Models C1, A1

(sources)

ABC Corp. AA-NNN-A-NNN-A Model J

(device)

Item 6. PURPOSE(S) FOR WHICH LICENSED MATERIAL WILL BE USED

Authorized Use
A. & B. For use in ABC Model J gauge to measure soil parameters at
a depth < 3 ft at temporary job locations within the United States
subject to NRC’s regulatory authority.

Item 7. INDIVIDUAL(S) RESPONSIBLE FOR RADIATION PROTECTION PROGRAM

AND THEIR TRAINING EXPERIENCE.

The Omaha District Radiation Protection Officer (RPO) is Joe

Aresso (false names used in this example). He will be responsible
for the Radiation Protection Program and he will report directly to
the District Commander. The duties and responsibilities of the RPO
are described in ER 385-1-80, Ionizing Radiation Protection and EM
385-1-80, Radiation Protection Manual (both attached). It is the

H-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

RPO’s responsibility to ensure that all radiation work is performed

safely and within regulatory constraints. The RPO has been
delegated, by the District Commander, the authority to stop an
operation if he believes that radiation safety concerns exist. The
RPO has met the training and experience requirements listed in
Chapter 2 of the USACE Radiation Protection Manual. Joe Aresso has
attended the 40-Hour RPO training class offered by ABC Corp., he
has attended ABC Corp.’s 8 hour user training course, and he has
worked with nuclear gauges for 5 years (certificates of training
attached.

Item 8. TRAINING FOR INDIVIDUALS WORKING IN OR FREQUENTING

RESTRICTED AREAS.

Individuals working in or frequenting restricted areas will

receive training as outlined in Chapter 2 of the USACE Radiation
Protection Program (attached). Authorized Users (AUs) will have
attended ABC Corp.’s 8-hour training course, will be instructed in
USACE’s operating and emergency procedures (copy attached), and
will be approved in writing by the RPO prior to use of a nuclear
gauge.

The RPO will be responsible for supplying annual refresher

training to all individuals. Topics which will be covered include:
operating and emergency procedures, DOT requirements, changes in
regulations or license conditions, and deficiencies identified
during annual audits.

Item 9. FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.

Nuclear gauges will be packaged and transported in accordance

with applicable DOT regulations (copy maintained at the USACE
warehouse). A copy of the radioactive material license and USACE’s
operating and emergency procedures will be in each gauge carrying
case at all times. When not under constant surveillance at a
temporary job site, the nuclear gauge will be locked in its
carrying case and securely chained in the bed of the truck or
locked in the equipment trailer. Access to the truck or trailer
will be limited to the AU, the RPO and the Site Safety and Health
Officer. When not at a temporary job site, the nuclear gauge will
be locked in its carrying case and the case locked in a closet
within the equipment storage room of the existing USACE warehouse.
Access to the closet will be limited to the AUs and the RPO. The
door of the closet will be posted “Caution, Radioactive Material.”
When the gauge is in storage, the radiation level does not exceed

H-3
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

background in the equipment storage room. A diagram of the USACE

warehouse is shown in Figure 1.

A Ludlum Model 3 survey meter and a Ludlum Model 44-9 thin window
pancake probe will be present at each job site for use by the AU.
This instrument can measure from 0.01 mR/hr to 100 mR/hr. The
instrument is calibrated annually by the US Army TMDE calibration
facility. The instrument has a check source attached to the meter
case and the response of the meter is checked each time the meter
is turned on. If the response is more or less than 10% of normal,
the instrument will be removed from service. A replacement meter
or timely access to a replacement meter will be obtained before
operations will resume. The sources will be leak tested by the RPO
as described in Chapter 5 of the USACE Radiation Protection Manual
at 6-month intervals. The RPO will conduct an inventory every six
months to account for all sealed sources and devices received and
possessed. All maintenance by the RPO or an AU will be conducted
with the source in its shielded position following ABC Corp.’s
recommendations.

Item 10. RADIATION PROTECTION PROGRAM.

The USACE Radiation Protection Program is attached. The District

Commander will assure that the radiation Protection Program is
audited annually by an internal (for example, by the RPO or local
acting IG) or external (for example, by the Surgeon General or an
RPO from another command) agent or agency. The results of any
audit will be promptly reviewed by the District Commander. Audit
records will be maintained for 3 years.

Item 11. WASTE MANAGEMENT.

No waste will be generated. Sealed sources will be returned to

the manufacturer for disposal.

Diagram of the USACE warehouse located at 9901 John J. Pershing

Drive, Omaha, NE. Nuclear gauges will be stored in a closet
(designated “Radioactive storage” on the diagram) within the
equipment room.

H-4
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

Figure 1.

H-5
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

Forms/Statements/Information

DD 1952

DA Form 3337

NRC Form 3 (For Reference only, not to full scale as required (16"
by 11")

USAIRDC Computer Generated Version of NRC Form 5

NRC Form 241

NRC Form 313

NRC Form 314

Eng Form 3309-R

Eng Form 4790-R

Declaration of Pregnancy Statement

LLRW Compact Information Map

H-7
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

H-8
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

H-9
H-14
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

H-15
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

8. OTHER DATA
.

H-16
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

H-17
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

INITIAL

H-18
 OATE

-
 Date: I

H-20
H-21
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

Appendix I. Sample USACHPPM Survey Protocol/Checklist.

I-l
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

United States Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine (USACHPPM) Audit
based on the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Field Notes for Inspection of Industrial.
Academic, and Research Facilities

References: Title 10 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR), Chapter I - NRC. Parts 19, 20, 20, 61, & 71
Energy; Title 49 CFR Parts (170-l 89), Transportation: and Title 40 CFR Parts (1500- 1508),
Protection of Environment

1. INSPECTION HISTORY ( ) N/A - Initial Inspection

A. Violations were identified during any of the last

two inspections or two years, whichever is longer ( )Yes ( )No
B. Response letter(s) or 591(s) dated
C. Open violations from previous inspections:
Status
Requirement Violation Corrective Action Taken (Yes/No) Open/Closed

D. Explain any previous violation(s) not corrected or repeated ( ) N/A

2. ORGANIZATION AND SCOPE OF PROGRAM

A. Organizational Structure
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

1. Meets license conditions (L/C) or requirements [L/C] ( ) Yes ( ) No

2. Multiple authorized locations of use and/or laboratories ( ) Yes ( ) No
If yes, may us ATTACHMENT A as a guide for location(s) or
lab(s) inspected and note lab numbers where violations are found
3. Briefly describe scope of activities, including types and quantities
of use involving byproduct material, frequency of use, staff. size, etc.

B. Radiation Safety Committee (RSC) required L/C] ( )Yes ( )N0

1. R-SC fulfills license requirements [L/C]

2. Records maintained [L/C]

C. Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)

-
Remarks:

3. TRAINING. RETRAINING, AND INSTRUCTIONS TO WORKERS

A.Instructions to workers/students per [ 10 CFR 19.12]

B. Training program required [L/C]

1. If so, briefly describe training program:

2. Training program implemented

3. Periodic training program required
4. Periodic training program implemented
5. Records maintained

USACHPPM-2

I-3
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

D. Revised Part 20

Workers cognizant of requirements for:

1. Radiation Safety Program [20.1101]

2. Annual dose limits [20.1301,1302]
3. New forms 4 and 5
4. 10% monitoring threshold [20.1502]
5. Dose limits to embryo/fetus and declared
pregnant worker [20.1208]
6. Grave Danger Posting [20.1902]
7. Procedures for opening packages [20.1906]
8. Sewer disposal limits [20.2003]

A. Audits are required [L/C]

B. Audits or inspections are conducted

(1) Audits conducted by

(2) Frequency

USACHPPM3
I-4
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

5. FACILITIES

Remarks:

6. MATERIALS

Remarks:

I-5
A. Instruments and equipment:

B. Briefly describe area survey requirements [30.1501(a). L!C]: ,

C. Performed as required [20.1501(a), L/C]:

1. Contamination found
2. Corrective action taken and documented

D. Records maintained [20.2103, L/C]

E. Protection of members of the public

I-6
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

A. Disposal

1. Decay-in-storage

-
 -

C. Waste Management
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

D. Records of surveys and material accountability are

maintained [20.2 IO?, 2 1081

Remarks:

9. RECEIPT ANI3 TRANSFER OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL

i-9
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

A. Licensee shipments are:

I

EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

( ) N/A

I-11
 I

E. Reports

I-12
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

F. Who performed planned special exposures (PSEs) at this

facility (number of people involved and doses received)

Remarks:

I-13
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

Remarks:

Remarks:

I-14
 EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

17. BULLETINS AND INFORMATION NOTICES

A. Bulletins, Information Notices, NMSS Newsletters, etc.,

received by the Licensee

Remarks:

( ) N/A

A. Special license conditions or issues to be reviewed:

I-15
EM 385-l-80
30 May 97

21. PERFORMANCE EVALUATION FACTORS (PEFs)

Licensee (name & location) Inspector

Inspection Date

D. Radiation Safety Committee fails to meet or functions

inadequately
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

APPENDIX J. ACRONYMS.

µCi MICROCURIE CERCLA COMPREHENSIVE

ENVIRONMENTAL
ALARA AS LOW AS IS RESPONSE,
REASONABLY COMPENSATION AND
ACHIEVABLE LIABILITY ACT
“SUPERFUND”
ALI ANNUAL LIMIT OF
INTAKE CO COMMANDING OFFICER

Am-Be AMERICIUM-BERYLLIUM cpm COUNTS PER MINUTE

APR AIR-PURIFYING DA US DEPARTMENT OF

RESPIRATOR THE ARMY

ARA ARMY RADIATION DDE DEEP DOSE EQUIVALENT

AUTHORIZATION
DOD US DEPARTMENT OF
AS AGREEMENT STATE DEFENSE

AU AUTHORIZED USER DOE US DEPARTMENT OF

ENERGY
AUA AUTHORIZED USER’S
ASSISTANT DOT US DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION
BF3 BORON TRIFLUORIDE
dpm DISINTEGRATIONS PER
Bq BECQUEREL MINUTE

C/kg COULOMBS PER dps DISINTEGRATIONS PER

KILOGRAM SECOND

CDE COMMITTED DOSE EDE EFFECTIVE DOSE

EQUIVALENT EQUIVALENT

COE CHIEF OF ENGINEERS EPA ENVIRONMENTAL

PROTECTION AGENCY
CEDE COMMITTED EFFECTIVE
DOSE EQUIVALENT EMF ELECTROMAGNETIC
FIELDS

J-1
EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

EQ EQUATION MACOM MAJOR ARMY COMMAND

FOA FIELD OPERATING MCA MULTI-CHANNEL

ACTIVITY ANALYZER

FUDS FORMERLY USED mCi MILLICURIE

DEFENSE SITES
MeV MEGA-ELECTRON-
Ge(Li) GERMANIUM-LITHIUM VOLTS
DOPED
mR/hr MILLIROENTGEN PER
GM GEIGER-MEULLER HOUR

Gy GRAY mR MILLIROENTGEN

HP HEALTH PHYSICIST MW MIXED WASTE

HPGe HIGH PURITY NaI SODIUM IODIDE

GERMANIUM
NARM NATURALLY
HTRW CX HAZARDOUS, TOXIC OCCURRING OR
AND RADIOACTIVE ACCELERATOR
WASTE CENTER OF PRODUCED
EXPERTISE RADIOACTIVE
MATERIAL
IATA INTERNATIONAL AIR
TRANSPORT NCRP NATIONAL COUNCIL
ASSOCIATION ON RADIATION
PROTECTION AND
ICRU INTERNATIONAL MEASUREMENTS
COMMITTEE FOR
RADIATION UNITS NIST NATIONAL INSTITUTE
OF STANDARDS AND
keV KILO-ELECTRON TECHNOLOGY
VOLTS
NORM NATURALLY
LLRW LOW LEVEL OCCURRING
RADIOACTIVE WASTE RADIOACTIVE
MATERIAL
LSA LOW SPECIFIC
ACTIVITY NRC US NUCLEAR
REGULATORY
LSO LASER SAFETY COMMISSION
OFFICER

J-2
 EM 385-1-80
30 May 97

NVLAP NATIONAL VOLUNTARY RPO RADIATION

LABORATORY PROTECTION
ACCREDITATION OFFICER
PROGRAM
RPSO RADIATION
pCi PICOCURIE PROTECTION STAFF
OFFICER
PEL PERMISSIBLE
EXPOSURE LIMIT SAR SPECIFIC
ABSORPTION
PPE PERSONNEL RATE
PROTECTIVE
EQUIPMENT SDE SHALLOW DOSE
EQUIVALENT
Q QUALITY FACTOR
SOP STANDING OPERATING
R/hr ROENTGENS PER HOUR PROCEDURE

R ROENTGEN STC STRONG, TIGHT

CONTAINER
rad RADIATION ABSORBED
DOSE Sv SIEVERT

RAM RADIOACTIVE T1/2 HALF-LIFE

MATERIAL
TEDE TOTAL EFFECTIVE
RCRA RESOURCE DOSE EQUIVALENT
CONSERVATION AND
RECOVERY ACT TI TRANSPORT INDEX

rem ROENTGEN USACE US ARMY CORPS OF

EQUIVALENT MAN ENGINEERS

RF RADIO FREQUENCY USAIRDC US ARMY IONIZING

RADIATION
RPC RADIATION DOSIMETRY CENTER
PROTECTION
COMMITTEE USAF US AIR FORCE

USPS US POSTAL SERVICE

J-3