DOE-HDBK-1130-98 Chg Notice 2, Radiological Worker Training
Radiological Worker
Training
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Supersedes:
Superseded By:
DOE-HDBK-1130-98 Reaffirmation, Radiological Worker Training on May 04, 2004
Version history and related documents
Superseded by
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- DOE-HDBK-1130-98 ReaffirmationRadiological Worker Training (May 04, 2004)
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Section 1
NOT MEASUREMENT
SENSITIVE
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
October 1998
Change Notice No. 1
June 2001
Change Notice No. 2
December 2003
DOE HANDBOOK
Radiological Worker Training
U.S. Department of Energy AREA TRNG
Washington, D.C. 20585
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
This document has been reproduced directly from the best available copy.
Available to DOE and DOE contractors from ES&H Technical Information Services, U.S.
Department of Energy, (800) 473-4375, fax: (301) 903-9823.
Available to the public from the U.S. Department of Commerce, Technology Administration,
National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161; (703) 605-6000.
Change Notice No. 1 DOE-HDBK-1130-98
June 2001
Radiological Worker Training
An attachment to the Handbook was omitted. The same attachment is included in DOE-HDBK-
1131-98, General Employee Radiological Training. Accordingly, the reference in DOE-HDBK-
1130-98 will be changed to refer to the attachment included in DOE-HDBK-1131-98.
Page/Section Change
Part 1 of 3 Program Management Guide
p. 16 / Evaluating Training Program
Effectiveness
Change last sentence of section to read:
These guidelines are included as an attachment to
the Program Management Guide to DOE-HDBK-
1131-98, General Employee Radiological
Training.
Change Notice No 2. DOE-HDBK-1130-98
December 2003
Page Change
Cover Change Metric to Not Measurement Sensitive.
iii Correct technical standards website address to:
http://tis.eh.doe.gov/techstds/.
Change "WordPerfect 8.0" to "WordPerfect 9.0".
v of Program Management Guide Delete reference to Attachment
2 of Program Management Guide
Organizational Relationships
and Reporting Structure
Change DOE Office of Worker Protection Programs and Hazards Management
(DOE EH-52) to
DOE Office of Worker Protection Policy and Programs (DOE EH-52).
16 of Program Management
Guide
Training Program
Development/Change Requests
Revise:
All requests for program changes and revisions should be submitted to EH-52
using the DOE Technical Standard Program form “Document Improvement
Proposal” F 1300.3. This form is available from the DOE Technical Standards
Home Page - Maintenance of DOE Technical Standards TSPP-09). (See the
Foreword of this document for website address).
19 of Program Management
Guide
Change - U.S. Department of Energy, Order 5480.20A, “Personnel Selection,
Qualification, and Training Requirements For DOE Nuclear Facilities,”
November, 1994.
To - U.S. Department of Energy, Order 5480.20A, Ch. 1, “Personnel Selection,
Qualification, and Training Requirements For DOE Nuclear Facilities,” 2001.
38 of Instructor's Guide
30 of Student’s Guide
1.b.2
Change - the DOE Radiological Control Technical Standards
To - the DOE Radiological Control Technical Standard
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
iii
Foreword
This Handbook describes an implementation process for core training as recommended in Implementation
Guide G441.12, Radiation Safety Training, and as outlined in the DOE Radiological Control Standard
(RCS). The Handbook is meant to assist those individuals within the Department of Energy, Managing
and Operating contractors, and Managing and Integrating contractors identified as having responsibility
for implementing core training recommended by the RCS. This training is intended for radiological
workers to assist in meeting their job-specific training requirements of 10 CFR 835. While this Handbook
addresses many requirements of 10 CFR 835 Subpart J, it must be supplemented with facility-specific
information to achieve full compliance.
Section 2
This Handbook contains recommended training materials consistent with other DOE core radiological
training materials. The training material consists of the following documents:
Program Management Guide - This document contains detailed information on how to use the
Handbook material.
Instructor’s Guide - This document contains a lesson plan for instructor use, including notation of
key points for inclusion of facility-specific information.
Student’s Guide - This document contains student handout material and also should be augmented
by facility-specific information. Please note that the Student Guide is not included in this draft
document because the text is essentially a duplicate of the Instructor Guide without the instructor
notes. The Student Guide will however, be included in the final version.
This Handbook was produced in WordPerfect 9.0 and has been formatted for printing on an HP 4M (or
higher) LaserJet printer. Copies of this Handbook may be obtained from either the DOE Radiation Safety
Training Home Page Internet site (http://tis-nt.eh.doe.gov/wpphm/rst/rst.html) or the DOE Technical
Standards Program Internet site (http://tis.eh.doe.gov/techstds/). Documents downloaded from the DOE
Radiation Safety Training Home Page Internet site may be manipulated using the software noted above.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
iv
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Part 1 of 3
Radiological Worker Training
Program Management Guide
Coordinated and Conducted
for
Office of Environment, Safety & Health
U.S. Department of Energy
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
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ii
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
iii
Course Developers
Christine Liner Savannah River Site (Development Chairperson)
Al Reeder Lockheed Martin Energy Systems
Carolyn Owen Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Dean Atchinson Brookhaven National Laboratory
Brent Pearson Coleman Industries
Roland Jean Sandia National Laboratories
Karin Jessen Lockheed Martin Energy Systems
Course Reviewers
Technical Standards Managers U.S. Department of Energy
Peter O’Connell U.S. Department of Energy
Randy Sullivan ATL International, Inc.
William Ulicny ATL International, Inc.
We would also like to take this opportunity to recognize several individuals who provided significant
contributions in developing previous revisions to DOE Radiological Worker Training material.
Vicki Bogan Savannah River Site (Former)
Michael Sanders Savannah River Site (Former)
Pete Seilheimer Hanford Site
Cindy Caldwell Hanford Site
Chris Lesperance Hanford Site
Gerald Eaton Hanford Site
Doug Gabbard Fernald Environmental Restoration
Management Company
Rocky Barnum Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Thomas Clawson Idaho National Engineering and
Environmental Laboratory
Roger Raymond Idaho National Engineering and
Environmental Laboratory
Kathleen McIntyre Brookhaven National Laboratory
Jim Allen Stanford Linear Accelerator Center
Paula Trinoskey Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
v
Table of Contents
Page
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Purpose and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Compliance with 10 CFR 835-Subpart J . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Goal of Training Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Organizational Relationships and Reporting Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Section 3
Training Program Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Overview of Training Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Description of Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Radiological Fundamentals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Biological Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Radiation Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
ALARA Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Personnel Monitoring Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Radiological Access Controls and Postings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Radiological Emergencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Practical Factors for RW I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
High /Very High Radiation Area Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Practical Factors for High Radiation Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Radiological Worker II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Radioactive Contamination Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Practical Factors for RW II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Specialized Radiological Worker Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Refresher Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Proficiency Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Retraining . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Instructor Training and Qualifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Training Program Material Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Training Material Presentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Training Certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Training Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Section 4
Training Program Standards and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Training Examinations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Lectures, Seminars, Training Exercises, etc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Delinquent Training/Failure Procedures and Policies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Exceptions and Waivers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Training Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Training Program Development/Change Requests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Audits (internal and external) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Evaluating Training Program Effectiveness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
1
Introduction
Purpose and Scope This guide describes the DOE Radiological Worker I and II (RW I and
II) training programs. It includes standards and policies as well as
recommendations for material development and program
administration. It is intended for use by DOE contractors for the
development of facility-specific radiological worker training.
Compliance with 10 CFR
835-Subpart J
The DOE core training materials for RW Training reflect the
requirements identified in 10 CFR 835-Subpart J, “Radiation Safety
Training” and recommendations identified in the DOE Implementation
Guide G441.12, Radiation Safety Training, and in the DOE
Radiological Control Technical Standard. When implemented in its
entirety and supplemented as noted with appropriate facility-specific
information, this handbook will generally meet the requirements of
10 CFR 835-Subpart J for radiological worker training. However, it is
incumbent on management of each facility to review the content of this
course against the radiological hazards present to ensure that the
training content is appropriate to each individual’s prior training,
anticipated and actual assignments, and degree of exposure to potential
radiological hazards.
Training described in this guide does not eliminate the need for
additional training for facility-specific hazards. Notations throughout
the program documents indicate the need for facility-specific
information. If the noted section is not applicable to the facility, no
information is required to be presented. The site Radiological Control
Manager or designee should concur in facility-generated radiological
training material.
Continued Next Page
Introduction (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
2
Goal of Training
Program
The goal of the core training program is to provide a high level of
knowledge and skills in radiological fundamentals for the radiological
worker at all DOE facilities.
Section 5
Organizational
Relationships and
Reporting Structure
1. DOE Office of Worker Protection Policy and Programs (DOE
EH-52) is responsible for approving and maintaining the core
training materials associated with the RW I and II training
programs.
2. The establishment of a comprehensive and effective contractor
site radiological control training program is the responsibility of
line management and their subordinates. The training function
may be performed by a separate training organization, but the
responsibility for quality and effectiveness rests with line
management.
Training Program Description Next
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
3
Training Program Descriptions
Overview of Training
Program
Radiological Worker I Training is intended for radiological workers
whose job assignments require unescorted access to Radiological Buffer
Areas, Radiation Areas, or Radioactive Materials Areas. The RW I
program consists of the core academic material plus the appropriate
practical factors evaluation and lessons learned.
The High/Very High Radiation (HR/VHR) Area module may be
added to the Radiological Worker I course to give personnel unescorted
entry into High Radiation Areas where contamination is not present.
Radiological Worker II Training is intended for radiological workers
whose job assignments involve unescorted entry to High Radiation Areas,
Contamination Areas, High Contamination Areas and Airborne
Radioactivity Areas. Further, workers who have potential contact with
hot particles or use of gloveboxes with high contamination levels should
complete Radiological Worker II training.
The RW II program consists of the RW core academic material, the
HR/VHR Area module (this may be deleted for certain sites, such as
uranium mill tailings remediation projects, which do not have HR/VHR
Areas), the Contamination Control module, the applicable practical factors
evaluation, and lessons learned.
Description of Programs Core Academic Material is approximately 8 hours in length but will vary
dependent upon the amount of facility-specific material. RW Core
Academic Training includes the following modules (1-7):
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
4
Radiological
Fundamentals
(Module 1)
C Atomic Structure
C Definitions and Units of Measure
C The Four Basic Types of Ionizing Radiation
C Units of Measure for Radiation
Biological Effects
(Module 2)
C Sources of Radiation
C Effects of Radiation on Cells
C Acute and Chronic Radiation Dose
C Prenatal Radiation Exposure
C Risks in Perspective
Radiation Limits
(Module 3)
C Basis for and Purpose of Radiation Dose Limits and
Administrative Control Levels
C Dose Limits and Administrative Control Levels
C Worker Responsibilities Regarding Dose Limits
ALARA Program
(Module 4)
C ALARA Program
C Responsibilities for the ALARA Program
C External and Internal Dose Reduction
C Radioactive Waste Minimization
Personnel Monitoring
Programs
(Module 5)
C External Dosimetry
C Internal Monitoring
C Methods for Obtaining Radiation Dose Records
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
5
Radiological Access
Controls and Postings
(Module 6)
C Radiological Work Permits
C Radiological Postings
C Areas an RW I Trained Person Can Enter
C Areas an RW I Trained Person May Not Enter
Radiological
Emergencies
(Module 7)
C Emergency Alarms and Responses
Section 6
C Radiological Emergency Situations
C Considerations in Rescue and Recovery Operations
Radiological Worker I Radiological Worker I training consists of the RW core academic material
(Modules 1-7) plus the applicable practical factors (Module 10.1).
Practical Factors for RW
I
(Module 10.1)
The recommended evaluation for RW I consists of the following topics:
C Review an Appropriate Radiological Work Permit (RWP)
C Record the Appropriate Information on the RWP
C Select and Wear Required Dosimeter(s)
C Enter Simulated Area and Demonstrate ALARA Techniques
C Monitor for Contamination (e.g., hand and foot monitoring on
exiting RBA)
C Respond to Emergency Situations or Abnormal Radiological
Situations
It may be necessary for an RW I qualified individual to enter an HR Area.
If this becomes necessary, then the HR/VHR training should be
presented, along with the applicable practical factors (Modules 10.1
and/or 10.2).
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
6
High/Very High
Radiation Area Training
(Module 8)
The materials for the HR/VHR Area Module include the following:
C High and Very High Radiation Area Definitions
C Signs and Postings
C Entry, Work In, and Exit from High Radiation Areas
C Access Controls for High and Very High Radiation Areas
Practical Factors for
High Radiation Areas
(Module 10.2)
The recommended evaluation for RW I (High Radiation Area) consists of
entry, work, and exit requirements:
C Identify High Radiation Area signs
C State special controls on RWP
C State area radiation levels (with appropriate units)
C State facility-specific administrative control levels
C Select dosimetry in accordance with RWP
C Wear dosimetry in accordance with procedures
C Perform pre-operational checks (as appropriate) on survey meter
and/or dose rate indicating device
C Record appropriate information on RWP prior to entry
C Verify current radiation survey prior to first entry
C Enter only areas designated on RWP
C Maximize distance from higher radiation areas
C Do not loiter
C State appropriate actions to take when a radiation area monitor
alarms
C Record appropriate information on RWP upon exit
Radiological Worker II RW II Core Training is approximately 16 hours in length but will vary
dependent on the amount of facility-specific material. RW II includes the
core academic material modules (1 - 7), HR/VHR Area module (8),
Contamination Control module (9), and RW II Practical Exercise module
(10.3).
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
7
Radioactive
Contamination Control
(Module 9)
The radioactive contamination control module includes the following topics:
C Comparison of Ionizing Radiation and Radioactive
Contamination
C Types of Contamination
C Sources of Radioactive Contamination
C Contamination Control Methods
C Contamination Monitoring Equipment
C Decontamination
C Types of Contamination Areas
C Lessons Learned
Practical Factors for RW
II (Module 10.3)
The recommended evaluation for RW II consists of the following topics:
C Review an Appropriate Radiological Work Permit (RWP)
C Record the Appropriate Information on the RWP
C Select Required Dosimeter(s) and Protective Clothing
C Don Protective Clothing and Dosimeter(s)
C Enter Simulated Area and Demonstrate Contamination Control
Practices
C Remove Protective Clothing and Dosimeter(s)
C Monitor for Contamination
Section 7
C Respond to emergency situations or abnormal radiological
situations
Specialized Radiological
Worker Training
Specialized Radiological Worker Training should be completed for non-
routine operations or work in areas with changing radiological conditions.
This training is in addition to Radiological Worker II training and is required
for personnel planning, preparing, and performing jobs that have the
potential for high radiological consequences. Such jobs may
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
8
Specialized Radiological
Worker Training
(continued)
involve special containment devices, the use of mockups, and ALARA
considerations. In some cases, depending on facility-specific criteria, pre-
job briefings provide an acceptable alternative to Specialized Radiological
Worker Training.
Individuals who install, inspect, or work in radiological containments shall
be trained commensurate with their duties. Individuals that wear
respiratory protection need to be medically qualified and wear the
equipment as trained in accordance with OSHA standards and DOE
requirements. This training is in addition to Radiological Worker II training
Refresher Training Refresher training programs for RW I and II training may be implemented
in the alternate year when full retraining is not completed or in response to
observations or indications of poor radiological performance. Refresher
training is intended to maintain and enhance the proficiency of the worker.
The refresher training for RW I and II training should be documented.
RW I and II refresher training may be accomplished through any available
media. This may include video, handout, computer- based training or
classroom training.
RW I and II refresher training should include changes in requirements and
lessons learned from operations and maintenance experience, and
occurrence reporting for the site and across the DOE complex. The
following topics may be included:
C New procedures and changes to existing procedures
C New equipment and changes or modifications to existing
equipment or facilities
C Lessons learned from facility operating experiences
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
9
Refresher Training
(continued)
C Lessons learned from industry operating experiences
C Identified deficiencies from post training evaluations
Proficiency
Requirements
In accordance with 10 CFR 835-Subpart J, each individual shall
demonstrate knowledge of the radiation safety training topics established in
§ 835-Subpart J, commensurate with the hazards in the area and required
controls, by successful completion of an examination and performance
demonstrations prior to being permitted unescorted access to radiological
areas and prior to performing unescorted assignments as a radiological
worker.
A written examination and a practical factors evaluation shall be used to
demonstrate satisfactory completion of RW I, HR/VHR Area, and RW II
training (10 CFR 835 - Subpart J). These exams may be combined into
one exam if the training is presented as one training class.
C The minimum passing score for any written examination should be
80%.
C A minimum passing score on the practical evaluation should be
80%.
C Computer-based and other electronic methods of examination are
acceptable.
Retraining In accordance with 10 CFR 835-Subpart J, RW retraining shall be provided
Section 8
to individuals when there is a significant change to radiation protection
policies and procedures that may affect the individual and at intervals not to
exceed 24 months. The requirements of 10 CFR 835-Subpart J for
examination apply.
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
10
Retraining (continued) Retraining should include selected fundamentals of the initial training with
emphasis on seldom-used knowledge and skills. Retraining should be
tailored to subjects for which trainee evaluations and experience indicate
that special emphasis and depth of coverage is needed.
A self-study method may be used, when possible, for retraining. A
suggestion for a self-study method is to allow the workers to self study the
training material; present any updates or changes, lessons learned, etc.;
then allow the workers to take the examination and applicable practical
exercise.
Minimum requirements for RW I and RW II retraining should be
successful completion of the written examination, practical exercise, and
training on lessons learned/new procedures.
Materials developed in support of retraining should be documented in
accordance with 10 CFR 835.704 “Administrative Records.”
Instructor Training and
Qualifications
All classroom instruction should be provided by instructors qualified in
accordance with the contractor’s site instructor qualification program.
Training staff (contractor and subcontractor, if used) should possess both
technical knowledge and experience, and the developmental and
instructional skills required to fulfill their assigned duties.
1. Training staff responsible for program management, supervision,
and development should have and maintain the education,
experience, and technical qualifications required for their jobs.
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
11
Instructor Training and
Qualifications
(continued)
2. Instructors should have the technical qualifications, which include
adequate theory, practical knowledge, and experience for the
subject matter that they are assigned to teach.
3. Methods should be in place at each contractor site to ensure that
individual instructors meet and maintain position qualification
requirements.
4. Subject matter experts, without instructor qualification, may
provide training in their area of expertise. However, if these
subject matter experts are to be permanent instructors, they
should be trained as instructors in the next practical training cycle.
Qualifications for trainers at nuclear facilities can be found in
DOE Order 5480.20A, “Personnel Selection, Qualification, and
Training Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities.”
Training Program Material Development Next Page
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
12
Training Program Material Development
Training Material
Presentation
Training materials for the core programs consist of lesson plans and
study guides. To ensure compliance with 10 CFR 835-Subpart J, facility-
specific materials must be added to the core materials when necessary to
adequately train individuals for facility-specific radiological hazards.
Training Certificates A training certificate that identifies current training status of core training
may be provided to qualified personnel. Each facility is responsible to
administer and track the certificates. Facilities have the option of utilizing
the certificates as proof of training.
Section 9
However, it should be noted that 10 CFR 835-Subpart J requires each
facility to ensure radiological workers have adequate training for the
hazards present. The training certificate from another DOE site does
not, in itself, relieve the facility from ensuring the worker has had
adequate training.
It is appropriate for facilities to supplement a visiting radiological
worker’s training with facility-specific training sufficient to ensure an
adequate level of training for the hazards present. It may also be
appropriate to confirm the adequacy of the worker’s training with a
standard examination and practical evaluation.
Training Aids Facility-specific training aids may be developed at the facility to suit
individual training styles. Each facility may add information, activities, a
glossary, and/or view graphs to enhance their program.
Training Program Standards and Policies Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
13
Training Examinations Written examinations and/or computer-based training (CBT)
examinations shall be used to demonstrate satisfactory completion of
theoretical and classroom material for RW I and RW II. The
examinations should:
C Be completed with a minimum passing grade of 80%,
C Cover material representative of the learning objectives from
both core material and facility-specific material,
C Be varied from class to class and within classes when the class
size is large,
C Not use true/false questions, and
C Be acknowledged by trainee signature participation in a post-
examination review.
An example core examination question bank is available from DOE EH-
52. Each question in the examination bank should be numbered in
accordance with the corresponding learning objective. All questions
should consist of the multiple choice type question.
The facility should develop an appropriate exam bank, and the DOE
example questions may be used as a basis. Example questions may be
used verbatim, but the order of answers should be changed. The DOE
example exam bank is not held confidential. The facility exam bank
should be held confidential in accordance with facility practices for exam
confidentiality. The practice should ensure students do not have
knowledge of specific answer keys.
Rad Worker I Written Examination: The Rad Worker I exam is the
responsibility of each facility and should consist of a minimum of thirty
(30) questions.
The remedial action for failure of this examination is the responsibility of
each facility.
HR/VHR Area Written Examinations: The HR/VHR Area exam is
the responsibility of each facility and should consist of a minimum of five
(5) questions.
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
14
Training Examinations
(continued)
The remedial action for failure of this examination is the responsibility of
each facility.
Rad Worker Written II Examinations: The Rad Worker II exam is
the responsibility of each facility and should consist of a minimum of fifty
(50) questions. The remedial action for failure of this examination is the
responsibility of each facility.
Initial challenge examinations may be appropriate for experienced
radiological workers and those with current qualifications at another
DOE facility. They should be designed to cover the core RW training
core learning objectives only. Challenges should not apply to facility-
specific topics. Each learning objective should be represented on the
Section 10
challenge examination. Failure of a challenge examination should result
in the attendance of a scheduled initial training session. Successful
completion of the initial challenge examination does not exempt the
employee from the facility-specific examination, practical factors
evaluation, and training in lessons learned/new procedures.
Practical Factors Evaluation: A practical factors evaluation should be
used to demonstrate satisfactory completion skills for RW I, RW I
HR/VHR Area, and RW II training. A minimum score of 80% should be
attained for each practical factor evaluation. The criteria for a
satisfactory score is outlined in the attachments to the Instructor’s Guide.
Successful completion of the written examination should be a prerequisite
for the practical evaluation.
Lectures, Seminars,
Training Exercises, etc.
RW I and II core training programs are designed to be delivered in a
classroom setting. An alternate delivery method may be implemented
with CBT equipment. The presentation of RWT should include core
materials and facility-specific information. In all cases, regardless of the
setting or delivery method, examination requirements of 10 CFR 835-
Subpart J shall be followed.
Continued Next Page
Training Program Standards and Policies (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
15
Delinquent
Training/Failure
Procedures and Policies
Radiological workers who are delinquent on retraining shall lose their
Radiological Worker access status until successful completion of the
delinquent training requirement. These workers shall not be allowed
unescorted entry into associated radiological areas.
Currently trained radiological workers who fail a challenge or retraining
exam shall lose their training status until successful completion of the
examination and practical factors evaluation. These workers should not
be allowed unescorted entry into associated controlled/radiological areas.
Exceptions and Waivers Successful completion of the core courses for RW I, RW I HR/VHR
Area, and RW II training at one DOE site may be recognized by other
DOE sites. However, the determination as to the adequacy of training as
required by 10 CFR 835-Subpart J is the responsibility of the facility. It
may be appropriate to accept this training as the basis for a challenge
exam covering generic topics. However, this training may not
adequately cover facility-specific topics.
Administration Next
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
16
Administration
Training Records Training records and course documentation shall meet the requirements
of 10 CFR 835.704 “Administration Records.”
Training Program
Development/Change
Requests
All requests for program changes and revisions should be submitted to
EH-52 using the DOE Technical Standard Program form “Document
Improvement Proposal” F 1300.3. This form is available from the DOE
Technical Standards Home Page - Maintenance of DOE Technical
Standards TSPP-09). (See the Foreword of this document for website
address).
Audits (internal and
external)
Internal verification of training effectiveness may be accomplished
through senior instructor or supervisor observation of practical
applications and discussions of course material. Results should be
documented and maintained by the organization responsible for
Radiological Control Training.
The RW I, RW I HR/VHR Area, and RW II core training program
materials and processes will be evaluated on a periodic basis by DOE-
Section 11
HQ. The evaluation should include a comparison of program elements
with applicable industry standards and requirements.
Evaluating Training
Program Effectiveness
Verification of the effectiveness of Radiological Control training should
be accomplished by surveying a limited subset of former students in the
workplace. This evaluation should include observation of practical
applications, discussion of the course material, and may include an
associated written examination. DOE/EH has issued guidelines for
evaluating the effectiveness of radiological training through the DOE
Operations Offices and DOE Field Offices.
Continued Next Page
Administration (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
17
Evaluating Training
Program Effectiveness
(continued)
These guidelines are included as an attachment to the Program
Management Guide to DOE-HDBK-1131-98, General Employee
Radiological Training.
For additional guidance, refer to DOE STD 1070-94, “Guide for
Evaluation of Nuclear Facility Training Programs.” The guidelines
contained in these documents are relevant for the establishment and
implementation of post-training evaluation and retention testing programs.
In response to the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board (DNFSB)
Recommendation 91-6, DOE committed to develop an implementation
plan to upgrade radiation protection programs at DOE defense nuclear
facilities.
The implementation plan detailed DOE’s plans to develop and implement
radiation protection post-training evaluation and retention testing
programs. Post-training evaluations will be used to identify opportunities
for improving course materials, upgrading instruction methods and
techniques, and the need for additional training. Retention testing will
indicate when individual performance or testing fails to meet
expectations. Corrective actions for deficiencies identified in retention
testing will be incorporated in the individual’s development plan and the
site’s training program on an appropriate schedule.
In addition, Article 613.7 of the DOE Radiological Control Standard
states that sites should implement a training effectiveness verification
program. This program, which is in addition to performance evaluations
routinely performed by the site’s training department, is to verify the
effectiveness of radiological control training by surveying a limited subset
of former students in the workplace. This recommendation applies to
both DOE defense nuclear facilities and DOE facilities not classified as
defense nuclear facilities.
Continued Next Page
Administration (continued)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
18
Evaluating Training
Program Effectiveness
(continued)
Per DOE’s commitment to DNFSB, it is expected that all defense
nuclear facilities will implement these or equivalent programs. DOE
facilities not classified as defense nuclear facilities should also strive to
implement such programs. Line management should monitor progress of
program implementation.
The guidance contained in DOE STD-1070-94 is not meant to be
prescriptive. Training organizations should review this guidance and
determine its applicability, taking into consideration the existence of
similar programs already in place at their facility.
Forward evaluation results indicating a possible need to revise core
training programs to EH-52 using the “Request for Change to DOE
Core Training Materials” form.
References Next
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
19
References
Section 12
1. Cohen, Bernard L., “Catalog of Risks Extended and Updated,” Health Physics, the Radiation
Protection Journal, Vol. 61, 1991.
2. “Investigation Report C-337-A, Contamination Incident at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant on
August 23, 1991,” September 1991.
3. NCRP, “Ionizing Radiation Exposure of the Population of the United States,” Report No. 93.
4. ORAU 88/H-99, “Guide to Good Practice in Radiation Protection Training.”
5. Travis, E. L., “Primer of Medical Radiobiology,” 1989.
6. U.S. Department of Energy, “Implementation Guidance for Use with 10 CFR 835, Occupational
Radiation Protection,” 1998.
7. U.S. Department of Energy, DOE Radiological Control Standard, 1998.
8. U.S. Department of Energy, “Occupational Radiation Protection,” 10 CFR 835, 1998.
9. U.S. Department of Energy, “Reproductive Health: Effects of Chemical and Radiation on Fertility and
the Unborn Child,” Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, February 1, 1984.
10. U.S. Department of Energy, Order 5480.20A, Ch. 1, “Personnel Selection, Qualification, and Training
Requirements For DOE Nuclear Facilities,” November, 2001.
11. U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Radiological Health Handbook, January 1970.
12. U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, “Instruction Concerning Prenatal Radiation Exposure,” U.S.
NRC Regulatory Guide 8.13, December 1987.
13. U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, “Instruction Concerning Risks From Occupational Radiation
Exposure,” U.S. NRC Regulatory Guide 8.29, Version I, February 1997.
14. Wallace, Susan S., and Robert B. Painter, Editors., “Ionizing Radiation Damage to DNA: Molecular
Aspects,” UCLA Symposia on Molecular and Cellular Biology, New Series, Vol. 136, Wiley-Liss,
N.Y. 1990.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
20
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
(Part 2 of 3)
Radiological Worker Training
Instructor’s Guide
Coordinated and Conducted
for
Office of Environment, Safety & Health
U.S. Department of Energy
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
ii
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
iii
Course Developers
Christine Liner Savannah River Site
Al Reeder Lockheed Martin Energy Systems
Carolyn Owen Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Dean Atchinson Brookhaven National Laboratory
Brent Pearson Coleman Industries
Roland Jean Sandia National Laboratories
Karin Jessen Lockheed Martin Energy Systems
Course Reviewers
Technical Standards Managers U.S. Department of Energy
Peter O’Connell U.S. Department of Energy
Randy Sullivan ATL International, Inc.
William Ulicny ATL International, Inc.
We would also like to take this opportunity to recognize several individuals who provided significant
contributions in developing previous revisions to DOE Radiological Worker Training material.
Vicki Bogan Savannah River Site (Former)
Michael Sanders Savannah River Site (Former)
Pete Seilheimer Hanford Site
Cindy Caldwell Hanford Site
Chris Lesperance Hanford Site
Gerald Eaton Hanford Site
Doug Gabbard Fernald Environmental Restoration
Management Company
Rocky Barnum Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
Thomas Clawson Idaho National Engineering and Environmental
Laboratory
Roger Raymond Idaho National Engineering and Environmental
Laboratory
Kathleen McIntyre Brookhaven National Laboratory
Jim Allen Stanford Linear Accelerator Center
Paula Trinoskey Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Section 13
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
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v
Table of Contents
Page
Training Program Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
A. DOE Course Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
B. Overview of Courses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
C. Evaluation Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiii
D. Documentation of Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv
E. Periodic Training and Refresher Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xiv
MODULE 1: RADIOLOGICAL FUNDAMENTALS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Instructional Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
A. Atomic Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
B. Definitions and Units of Measure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
C. The Four Basic Types of Ionizing Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
D. Units of Measure for Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
MODULE 2: BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Instructional Aids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Section 14
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
A. Sources of Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
B. Effects of Radiation on Cells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
C. Acute and Chronic Radiation Dose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
D. Prenatal Radiation Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
E. Risks in Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
MODULE 3: RADIATION LIMITS AND ADMINISTRATIVE CONTROL LEVELS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
vi
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
A. Basis for and Purpose of Radiation Dose Equivalent Limits and Administrative Control
Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
B. Dose Equivalent Limits and Administrative Control Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
C. Worker Responsibilities Regarding Dose Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Section 15
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
MODULE 4: ALARA PROGRAM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
A. ALARA Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
B. Responsibilities for the ALARA Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
C. External and Internal Radiation Dose Reduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
D. Radioactive Waste Minimization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
MODULE 5: PERSONNEL MONITORING PROGRAMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Section 16
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
A. External Dosimetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
B. Internal Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
C. Methods for Obtaining Radiation Dose Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
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IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
MODULE 6: RADIOLOGICAL ACCESS CONTROLS AND POSTINGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
A. Radiological Work Permits (RWPs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
B. Radiological Postings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
C. Areas a RW I Trained Person Can Enter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
D. Areas a RW I Trained Person May Not Enter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
MODULE 7: RADIOLOGICAL EMERGENCIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Section 17
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
A. Emergency Alarms and Responses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
B. Radiological Emergency Situations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
C. Considerations in Rescue and Recovery Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
MODULE 8: HIGH/VERY HIGH RADIATION AREA TRAINING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
A. High and Very High Radiation Area Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
B. Signs and Postings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
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C. Entry, Work In, and Exit from High Radiation Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
D. Access Controls for High and Very High Radiation Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
E. Access to VHRAs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Section 18
MODULE 9: RADIOACTIVE CONTAMINATION CONTROL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
A. Comparison of Ionizing Radiation and Radioactive Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
B. Types of Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
C. Radioactive Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
D. Contamination Control Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
E. Contamination Monitoring Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
F. Decontamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
G. Types of Contamination Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
H. Lessons Learned . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
MODULE 10.1: PRACTICAL FACTORS FOR RADIOLOGICAL WORKER I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Section 19
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
A. Review an Appropriate Radiological Work Permit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
B. Record the Appropriate Information on the RWP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
C. Select and Wear Required Dosimeter(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
D. Enter Simulated Area and Demonstrate ALARA Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
E. Monitor for Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
A. Review Evaluation Rules/Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
B. Review Pass/Fail Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
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C. Provide Students With Necessary Documentation/ Materials for Evaluation
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
MODULE 10.2: PRACTICAL FACTORS FOR HIGH RADIATION AREAS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
C. Objectives Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
A. Identify High Radiation Area Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
B. State Special Controls on RWP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
C. State Area Radiation Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
D. State Facility-Specific Administrative Control Levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
E. Select Dosimetry in Accordance with RWP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
F. Wear Dosimetry in Accordance with Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
G. Perform Pre-Operational Checks on Survey Meter or Dose Rate
Section 20
Indicating Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
H. Record Appropriate Information on RWP Prior to Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
I. Verify Current Radiation Survey Prior to First Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
J. Enter Only Areas Designated on RWP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
K. Maximize Distance from Higher Radiation Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
L. Do Not Loiter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
M. State Appropriate Actions to Take When a Radiation Area Monitor Alarms
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
N. Record Appropriate Information on RWP upon Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
A. Review Evaluation Rules/Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
B. Review Pass/Fail Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
C. Provide Students With Necessary Documentation/ Materials for Evaluation . . . . . . . . . 109
MODULE 10.3: PRACTICAL FACTORS FOR RADIOLOGICAL WORKER II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Terminal Objective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Enabling Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Instructional Aids: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
A. Self Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
B. Module Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
C. Introduce Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
D. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
II. MODULE OUTLINE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
A. Review an appropriate Radiological Work Permit (RWP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
B. Record the Appropriate Information on the RWP sign in sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
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C. Select Required Dosimeter(s) and Protective Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
D. Don Protective Clothing and Dosimeter(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
E. Enter Simulated Area and Demonstrate Contamination Control and ALARA Techniques
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Section 21
F. Remove Protective Clothing and Dosimeter(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
G. Monitor for Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
III. SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
IV. EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
A. Review Evaluation Rules/Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
B. Review Pass/Fail Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
C. Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
ATTACHMENT 1 - Instructions for Evaluators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
I. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
II. SET-UP PRACTICAL FACTORS MOCK-UP AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
III. ESTABLISH SCORING CRITERIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
IV. CONDUCTING EVALUATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
ATTACHMENT 2 - Sample Grading Checklist for RW II . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
ATTACHMENT 3 - Sample Job Scenario . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
ATTACHMENT 4 - Sample Survey Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
ATTACHMENT 5 - Sample Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
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Training Program Overview
DOE Radiological Health and Safety (DOE P 441.1) Safety Policy.
“It is the policy of the Department of Energy to conduct its radiological operations in a
manner that ensures the health and safety of all its employees, contractors, and the general
public. In achieving this objective, the Department shall ensure that radiation exposures to its
workers and the public and releases of radioactivity to the environment are maintained below
regulatory limits and deliberate efforts are taken to further reduce exposures and releases as
low as reasonably achievable. The Department is fully committed to implementing a
radiological control program of the highest quality that consistently reflects this policy.”
In meeting this policy, the Department shall:
“Ensure personnel responsible for performing radiological work activities are appropriately
trained. Standards shall be established to ensure the technical competency of the
Department’s workforce, as appropriate, through implementation of radiological training and
professional development programs.”
A. DOE Course Design
The DOE training material for radiological workers consists of four areas.
1. Core Academics (Modules 1-7)
This area includes modules 1 through 7. These modules discuss the theory that a
worker should know to work safely around radiological hazards.
Section 22
The core academics are recommended for radiological workers whose job assignments
limit required unescorted access to Radiological Buffer Areas, Radiation Areas, and
Radioactive Material Areas.
2. High/Very High Radiation Area (Module 8)
This module should be added to the core academics for personnel whose job
assignments require unescorted entry into High Radiation Areas where contamination is
not present or whose job assignments require work near High/Very High Radiation
Areas.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
xii
3. Contamination Control (Module 9)
This module is recommended for workers who require unescorted access to
Contamination, High Contamination, and/or Airborne Radioactivity Areas.
4. Practical Factors Evaluations (Module 10)
This module contains generic practical exercises that provide hands-on experience for
the worker. These exercises are for the levels of training needed by different
radiological workers.
B. Overview of Courses
The DOE training material can be divided into the following levels of radiological worker
training:
1. Radiological Worker I (RW I) Training
This course contains the core academics and the appropriate practical factors. This
training is for radiological workers whose job assignments require access to
Radiological Buffer Areas and Radiation Areas. RW I training is also suggested for
unescorted entry into Radioactive Material Areas containing either sealed radioactive
sources or radioactive material labeled in accordance with 10 CFR 835.
RW I training alone does not prepare the worker to work around higher radiation levels
or with contaminated materials. It is suggested that RW I tasks be limited to
inspections, tours, and activities that involve work on nonradiological systems.
2. Radiological Worker I Training with High/Very High Radiation Area Training
This course contains the core academics, the High/Very High Radiation Area
(HR/VHR) module, and the appropriate practical factors. The HR/VHR Area lesson
plan may be added to the RW I course to give personnel unescorted entry into High
Radiation Areas where contamination is not a concern.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
xiii
Figure 1
Three Levels of Radiological Worker Training with Associated Training Requirements
3. Radiological Worker II (RW II) Training
This course consists of the core academics, the High/Very High Radiation Area
module, the Contamination Control module, and the appropriate practical factors. This
training is recommended for the radiological worker whose job assignments involve
unescorted entry into High Radiation Areas, Contamination Areas, High Contamination
Areas, and Airborne Radioactivity Areas. Further, workers who have potential contact
with hot particles or use gloveboxes with high contamination levels should complete
RW II training.
RW II training prepares the worker to work around higher radiation levels and with
contaminated materials normally associated with radiological facilities/activities.
C. Evaluation Criteria
At the completion of the applicable course, the participant must successfully complete a
written exam and a practical evaluation to be considered to have successfully completed the
training. Successful completion of the written exam should be a prerequisite for the practical
factors evaluation.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
xiv
1. Written Examination
Section 23
Successful completion of the written examination typically requires a minimum passing
score of 80 percent or equivalent. The written exam is based on the objectives in the
theory portion of the course (Modules 1-7).
2. Practical Factors Evaluation
Successful completion of the practical factors evaluation typically requires a minimum
score of 80 percent or equivalent. The practical factors evaluation includes entry into a
simulated controlled work environment. This evaluation is based on the application of
the theory portion of the applicable course (Modules 1-7).
D. Documentation of Training
(Insert facility-specific information.)
E. Periodic Training and Refresher Training
1. Training
Training is required at intervals not to exceed every 24 months.
2. Refresher Training
Refresher training should be conducted in the off year when periodic training is not due.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
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Figure 2
Evaluation Overview Diagram
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DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Radiological Worker Training Instructor’s Guide
1
Course Title: Radiological Worker Training (Core Academics)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
2
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals
Terminal Objective:
Given various radiological concepts, the participant will be able to define the fundamentals of
radiation, radioactive material, and radioactive contamination in accordance with the approved lesson
materials.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify his/her
ability to:
EO1 Identify the three basic particles of an atom.
EO2 Define radioactive material, radioactivity, radioactive half-life, and radioactive contamination.
EO3 Identify the units used to measure radioactivity and contamination.
EO4 Define ionization and ionizing radiation.
EO5 Distinguish between ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation.
EO6 Identify the four basic types of ionizing radiation and the following for each type:
a. Physical characteristics
b. Range
c. Shielding
d. Biological hazard(s)
e. Sources at the site
EO7 Identify the units used to measure radiation.
EO8 Convert rem to millirem and millirem to rem.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
3
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
Nuclear science is truly a product of the 20th century. This
module will discuss several nuclear science topics at a basic
level appropriate for the radiological worker. These concepts
are necessary for the worker to understand the nature of
radiation and its potential effect on health. The topics covered
include basic particles of the atom, types of radiation, and the
definition of units used to measure radiation.
C. Objectives Review
D. Introduction
This module introduces the worker to basic radiological
fundamentals and terms that are common in the DOE
complex. After learning the fundamentals of radiation,
radioactive material, and radioactive contamination, the
worker will build from the basic to the more in-depth concepts
presented in the other modules.
Post information in room.
Have students introduce
themselves: name,
background
Section 24
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
4
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. Atomic Structure
1. The basic unit of matter is the atom. The three basic
particles of the atom are protons, neutrons, and electrons.
The central portion of the atom is the nucleus. The nucleus
consists of protons and neutrons. Electrons orbit the
nucleus—similar to the way planets orbit our sun.
EO1 Identify the three basic
particles of an atom.
a. Protons
1) Protons are located in the nucleus of the atom.
2) Protons have a positive electrical charge.
3) The number of protons in the nucleus determines
the element.
(Optional)
Insert diagram of the atom.
Have students label the
three basic particles.
b. Neutrons
1) Neutrons are located in the nucleus of the atom.
2) Neutrons have no electrical charge.
3) Atoms of the same element have the same
number of protons, but can have a different
number of neutrons.
4) Atoms which have the same number of protons
but different numbers of neutrons are called
isotopes.
NOTE: Common notation for describing isotopes
is to list the atomic symbol for an element followed
by its atomic weight. The atomic weight is the
sum of protons and neutrons. For example, tritium
has 1 proton and 2 neutrons, and is denoted as H-
3.
5) Isotopes have the same chemical properties;
however, the nuclear properties can be quite
different.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
5
c. Electrons
1) Electrons are in orbit around the nucleus of an
atom.
2) Electrons have a negative electrical charge.
3) This negative charge is equal in magnitude to the
proton’s positive charge.
Table 1-1
Basic Particles
3 Basic
Particles Location Charge Comments
Protons Nucleus + (positive) Number of protons determines the
element. If the number of protons
changes, the element changes.
Neutrons Nucleus No Charge Atoms of the same element have the
same number of protons, but can
have a different number of neutrons.
This is called an isotope.
Electrons Orbit
nucleus
- (negative) This negative charge is equal in
magnitude to the proton’s positive
charge.
2. Stable and unstable atoms
Only certain combinations of neutrons and protons result in
stable atoms.
a. If there are too many or too few neutrons for a given
number of protons, the nucleus will not be stable.
b. The unstable atom will try to become stable by giving
off excess energy. This energy is in the form of
particles or rays (radiation). These unstable atoms are
known as radioactive atoms.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
6
3. Charge of the atom
The number of electrons and protons determines the
overall electrical charge of the atom. The term “ion” is
used to define atoms or groups of atoms that have a net
positive or negative electrical charge.
Optional:
Insert diagram that
illustrates the different
charges.
a. No charge (neutral)
If the number of electrons equals the number of
protons, the atom is electrically neutral. This atom
does not have a net electrical charge.
b. Positive charge (+)
If there are more protons than electrons, the atom is
positively charged.
c. Negative charge (-)
If there are more electrons than protons, the atom is
negatively charged.
B. Definitions and Units of Measure
1. Radioactive material
EO2 Define radioactive
material.
Radioactive material is any material containing unstable
atoms that emit radiation.
Section 25
Give facility-specific
examples of radioactive
isotopes at the site.
2. Radioactivity
Radioactivity is the process of unstable (or radioactive)
atoms becoming stable. This is done by emitting radiation.
This process over a period of time is referred to as
radioactive decay. A disintegration is a single atom
undergoing radioactive decay.
EO2 Define radioactivity.
Give example of radioactive
decay.
3. Radioactivity units
Radioactivity is measured in the number of disintegrations
radioactive material undergoes in a certain period of time.
a. Disintegrations per minute (dpm)
b. Disintegrations per second (dps)
c. Curie (Ci)
EO3 Identify the units used
to measure radioactivity and
contamination.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
7
One curie equals:
C 2,200,000,000,000 disintegrations per
minute (2.2x1012 dpm), or
C 37,000,000,000 disintegrations per
second (3.7x1010 dps), or
C 1,000,000 microcuries (1x106 µCi).
4. Radioactive half-life
Radioactive half-life is the time it takes for one half of the
radioactive atoms present to decay.
EO2 Define radioactive
half-life.
5. Radioactive contamination
Radioactive contamination is radioactive material that is
uncontained and in an unwanted place. (There are certain
places where radioactive material is intended to be.)
EO2 Define radioactive
contamination.
Contamination is measured per unit area or volume.
• dpm/100 cm2
• µCi/ml
• µCi/g.
EO3 Identify the units used
to measure radioactivity and
contamination.
6. Ionization
Ionization is the process of removing electrons from
neutral atoms.
a. Electrons will be removed from an atom if enough
energy is supplied. The remaining atom has a positive
(+) charge. The ionized atoms may affect chemical
processes in cells. The ionizations may affect the
cell’s ability to function normally.
b. The positively charged atom and the negatively
charged electron are called an “ion pair.”
c. Ionization should not be confused with radiation. Ions
(or ion pairs) produced as a result of the interaction of
radiation with an atom allow the detection of radiation.
EO4 Define ionization.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
8
7. Ionizing radiation
Ionizing radiation is energy (particles or rays) emitted from
radioactive atoms, and some devices, that can cause
ionization. Examples of devices that emit ionizing radiation
are X-ray machines, accelerators, and fluoroscopes.
a. It is important to note that exposure to ionizing
radiation does not necessarily result in contamination
of the worker.
EO4 Define ionizing
radiation.
b. Radiation is a type of energy, and contamination is
radioactive material that is uncontained and in an
unwanted place.
8. Non-ionizing radiation
a. Electromagnetic radiation that doesn’t have enough
energy to ionize an atom is called “non-ionizing
radiation.”
EO5 Distinguish between
ionizing radiation and non-
ionizing radiation.
b. Examples of non-ionizing radiation are radar waves,
microwaves, and visible light.
C. The Four Basic Types of Ionizing Radiation
The four basic types of ionizing radiation of concern in the
DOE complex are alpha particles, beta particles, gamma or X
rays, and neutrons.
1. Alpha particles
a. Physical characteristics
1) The alpha particle has a large mass and consists
of two protons, two neutrons, and no electrons.
2) It is a highly charged particle (charge of plus two)
that is emitted from the nucleus of an atom.
Section 26
EO6 Identify the four basic
types of ionizing radiation
and the following for each:
a. Physical characteristics
b. Range
c. Shielding
d. Biological hazards
e. Sources
3) The positive charge causes the alpha particle (+)
to strip electrons (-) from nearby atoms as it
passes through the material, thus ionizing these
atoms.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
9
b. Range
1) The alpha particle deposits a large amount of
energy in a short distance of travel.
2) This large energy deposit limits the penetrating
ability of the alpha particle to a very short
distance.
3) Range in air is about 1-2 inches.
c. Shielding
Most alpha particles are stopped by a few centimeters
of air, a sheet of paper, or the dead layer (outer layer)
of skin.
d. Biological hazards
1) Alpha particles are not considered an external
radiation hazard. This is because they are easily
stopped by the dead layer of skin.
2) Internally, the source of the alpha radiation is in
close contact with body tissue and can deposit
large amounts of energy in a small volume of
living body tissue.
e. Sources
(Insert facility-specific information.)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
10
Table 1-2
Alpha Particles
Physical
Characteristics
• Large mass (2 protons, 2 neutrons, 0
electrons).
• +2 charge.
Range • Very short (about 1-2 inches in air).
• Deposits large amount of energy in a short
distance of travel.
Shielding • Few centimeters of air.
• Sheet of paper.
• Dead layer of skin (outer layer).
Biological
Hazards
• No external hazard (dead layer of skin will
stop alpha particles).
• Internally, the source of alpha radiation is in
close contact with body tissue. It can
deposit large amounts of energy in a small
amount of body tissue.
Sources Insert facility-specific information.
2. Beta particles
a. Physical characteristics
1) The beta particle has a small mass and is
positively or negatively charged. Positively
charged beta particles are called positrons and
have an electrical charge of plus one. Negatively
charged beta particles are high-energy electrons
and have an electrical charge of minus one.
2) A negatively charged beta particle is physically
identical to an electron.
EO6 Identify the four basic
types of ionizing radiation
and the following for each
type:
a. Physical characteristics
b. Range
c. Shielding
d. Biological hazards
e. Sources
3) The beta particle ionizes target atoms due to the
force between itself and the electrons of the
atom. Both have a charge of minus one.
b. Range
1) Because of its charge, the beta particle has a
limited penetrating ability.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
11
2) The range in air of beta particles depends on the
energy of the beta particle. In the case of tritium
(H-3), the range is only an inch; in the case of
phosphorous-32 (P-32) or strontium-90 (Sr-90),
the range is 20 feet in air.
c. Shielding
Beta particles are typically shielded by plastic, glass,
or safety glasses.
d. Biological hazards
1) If ingested or inhaled, a beta emitter can be an
internal hazard when the source of the beta
radiation is in close contact with body tissue and
can deposit energy in a small volume of living
body tissue.
2) Externally, beta particles are potentially hazardous
to the skin and eyes.
3) Provide facility-specific information on the
additional risks or concerns from high-energy beta
sources (e.g., P-32, Y-90), as appropriate.
Section 27
e. Sources
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Table 1-3
Beta Particles
Physical
Characteristic
s
• Small mass.
• -1 charge or + 1 charge.
Range • Short distance (one inch to 20 feet).
Shielding • Plastic.
• Glass.
• Safety glasses.
Biological
Hazard
• Internal hazard (this is due to short range).
• Externally, may be hazardous to skin and eyes.
Sources Insert facility-specific information.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
12
3. Gamma rays/X rays
a. Physical characteristics
1) Gamma/X-ray radiation is an electromagnetic wave
(electromagnetic radiation) or photon and has no mass
and no electrical charge.
2) Gamma rays are very similar to X rays. The
difference between gamma rays and X rays is that
gamma rays originate inside the nucleus and X rays
originate in the electron orbits outside the nucleus.
3) Gamma/X-ray radiation can ionize as a result of direct
interactions with orbital electrons.
EO6 Identify the four basic
types of ionizing radiation
and the following for each
type:
a. Physical characteristics
b. Range
c. Shielding
d. Biological hazards
e. Sources
b. Range
1) Because gamma/X-ray radiation has no charge and no
mass, it has very high penetrating ability.
2) The range in air is very far. It will easily go several
hundred feet.
c. Shielding
Gamma/X-ray radiation is best shielded by very dense
materials, such as lead. Water or concrete, although not
as effective as the same thickness as lead, are also
commonly used, especially if the thickness of shielding is
not limiting.
d. Biological hazards
Gamma/X-ray radiation can result in radiation exposure to
the whole body.
e. Sources
(Insert facility-specific information.)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
13
Table 1-4
Gamma Rays/X-Rays
Physical
Characteristic
s
• No mass.
• No charge.
• Electromagnetic wave or photon.
• Similar (difference is the place of origin).
Range
• Range in air is very far.
• It will easily go several hundred feet.
• Very high penetrating power since it has no
mass and no charge.
Shielding
• Concrete.
• Water.
• Lead.
Biological
Hazard
• Whole body exposure.
• The hazard may be external and/or internal.
This depends on whether the source is inside
or outside the body.
Sources Insert facility-specific information.
4. Neutrons
a. Physical characteristics
1) Neutron radiation consists of neutrons that are ejected
from the nucleus.
2) A neutron has mass, but no electrical charge.
EO6 Identify the four basic
types of ionizing radiation
and the following for each
type:
a. Physical characteristics
b. Range
c. Shielding
d. Biological hazards
e. Sources
3) An interaction can occur as the result of a collision
between a neutron and a nucleus. The nucleus recoils
due to the energy imparted by the neutron and ionizes
other atoms. This is called “secondary ionization.”
4) Neutrons may also be absorbed by a nucleus. This is
called neutron activation. A charged particle or
gamma ray may be emitted as a result of this
interaction. The emitted radiation can cause ionization
in other atoms.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
14
b. Range
1) Because of the lack of a charge, neutrons have a
relatively high penetrating ability and are difficult to
stop.
2) The range in air is very far. Like gamma rays, they
can easily travel several hundred feet in air.
c. Shielding
Section 28
Neutron radiation is best shielded by materials with a high
hydrogen content such as water, concrete, or plastic.
d. Biological hazards
Neutrons are a whole body hazard due to their high
penetrating ability.
e. Sources
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Table 1-5
Neutrons
Physical
Characteristic
s
• No charge.
• Has mass.
Range
• Range in air is very far.
• Easily can go several hundred feet.
• High penetrating power due to lack of charge
(difficult to stop).
Shielding
• Water.
• Concrete.
• Plastic (high hydrogen content).
Biological
Hazard
• Whole body exposure.
• The hazard is generally external.
Sources Insert facility-specific information.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
15
D. Units of Measure for Radiation
1. Roentgen (R)
a. Is a unit for measuring external exposure.
b. Defined only for effect on air.
c. Applies only to gamma and X rays.
d. Does not relate biological effects of radiation to the human
body.
e. 1 R (Roentgen) = 1000 milliroentgen (mR).
EO7 Identify the units used
to measure radiation.
2. Rad (Radiation absorbed dose)
a. A unit for measuring absorbed dose in any material.
Absorbed dose results from
energy being deposited by
the radiation.
b. Is defined for any material.
c. Applies to all types of radiation.
d. Does not take into account the potential effect that
different types of radiation have on the body.
e. 1 rad = 1000 millirad (mrad).
3. Rem (Roentgen equivalent man)
a. A unit for measuring dose equivalence.
b. Is the most commonly used unit.
c. Pertains to the human body.
d. Takes into account the energy absorbed (dose) and the
biological effect on the body due to the different types of
radiation.
The Quality Factor (QF) is used as a multiplier to reflect
the relative amount of biological damage caused by the
same amount of energy deposited in cells by the different
types of ionizing radiation. Rem = rad x QF.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
16
Quality Factors:
alpha = 20
beta = 1
gamma/x-ray = 1
neutron = 2-11 (depending on the energy)
e. 1 rem = 1,000 millirem (mrem).
EO8 Convert rem to
millirem and millirem to rem.
4. Radiation dose and dose rate
a. Radiation dose rate is the dose per time.
b. Example:
1) Radiation dose rate = dose/time.
2) Radiation dose equivalent rate = mrem/hr.
3) Radiation absorbed dose rate = mrad/hr.
Table 1-6
Radiation Units
Roentgen (R)
Rad
(Radiation Absorbed Dose)
Rem
(Roentgen Equivalent Man)
Unit for
measuring
exposure.
Unit for measuring
absorbed dose in any
material.
Unit for measuring dose
equivalence (most
commonly used unit).
Defined only for
effect on air.
Defined for any material. Pertains to human body.
Applies only to
gamma and X-ray
radiation.
Applies to all types of
radiation.
Applies to all types of
radiation.
Does not relate
biological effects
of radiation to the
human body.
Does not take into account
the potential effect that
different types of radiation
have on the body.
Takes into account the
energy absorbed (dose) and
the biological effect on the
body due to the different
types of radiation.
Equal doses of different
types of radiation (as
measured in rad) can cause
different levels of damage to
the body (measured in rem).
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals Instructor’s Notes
17
III. SUMMARY
(Insert facility-specific information.)
IV. EVALUATION
Section 29
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 2: Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
18
Module 2: Biological Effects
Terminal Objective:
Given various radiation doses and sources of radiation, identify natural and manmade sources of radiation
and the biological risks associated with radiation dose in accordance with lesson materials.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify his/her
ability to:
EO1 Identify the major sources of natural background and manmade radiation.
EO2 Identify the average annual dose to the general population from natural background and
manmade sources of radiation.
EO3 State the method by which radiation causes damage to cells.
EO4 Identify the possible effects of radiation on cells.
EO5 Define the terms “acute dose” and “chronic dose.”
EO6 State examples of chronic radiation dose.
EO7 Define the terms “somatic effect” and “heritable effect.”
EO8 State the potential effects associated with prenatal radiation dose.
EO9 Compare the biological risks from chronic radiation doses to health risks workers are subjected
to in industry and daily life.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
19
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
The fact that ionizing radiation produces biological
damage has been known for many years. We have
gained most of our knowledge of these effects since
World War II.
In this module, we will discuss the potential for biological
effects and risks due to ionizing radiation and put these
potential risks into perspective when compared to other
occupations and daily activities. With this information, it
is hoped that employees will develop a healthy respect for
radiation rather than fear or disregard.
C. Objectives Review
D. Introduction
We know more about the biological effects of ionizing
radiation than most other environmental factors. Rather
than just being able to base our information on animal
studies, we have a large body of information available
regarding exposures to humans. There are four major
groups of people that have been exposed to significant
levels of radiation.
The first group includes early radiation workers, such as
radiologists. These workers received large doses of
radiation before the biological effects were recognized.
Since that time, standards have been developed to protect
workers.
The second group is the more than 250,000 survivors of
the atomic bombs dropped at Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
Some of these survivors received doses estimated to be
in excess of 50,000 mrem.
The third group includes individuals who have been
involved in radiation accidents.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
20
The fourth and largest group of individuals are patients
who have undergone radiation therapy for cancer and
other diseases.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. Sources of Radiation
We live in a radioactive world and always have. In fact,
the majority of us will be exposed to more ionizing
radiation from natural background radiation than from our
jobs.
Introduce objectives
1. Natural sources
There are several sources of radiation that occur
naturally. The radiation emitted from these sources
is identical to the radiation that results from
manmade sources.
Section 30
EO1 Identify the major
sources of natural background
and manmade radiation.
The four major sources of naturally occurring
radiation exposures are:
• Cosmic radiation
• Sources in the earth’s crust, also referred to as
terrestrial radiation
• Sources in the human body, also referred to as
internal sources
• Radon
a. Cosmic radiation (total average dose ~
28 mrem/yr)
1) Cosmic radiation comes from the sun and
outer space. It consists of positively
charged particles and gamma radiation.
2) At sea level, the average annual cosmic
radiation dose is about 26 mrem.
3) At higher elevations, the amount of
atmosphere shielding cosmic rays
decreases; therefore, the dose increases.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
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b. Sources in earth’s crust (terrestrial) (total
average dose ~ 28 mrem/yr)
There are natural sources of radiation in the
ground (i.e., rocks and soil).
1) Some of the contributors to terrestrial
sources are the natural radioactive elements
radium, uranium, and thorium.
2) Many areas have elevated levels of
terrestrial radiation due to increased
concentrations of uranium or thorium in the
soil.
c. Internal (total average dose ~40 mrem/yr)
1) The food we eat and the water we
drink contain trace amounts of natural
radioactive materials.
2) These naturally occurring radioactive
materials deposit in our bodies and
cause internal exposure to radiation.
3) Some naturally occurring radioactive
isotopes include Sodium-24 (Na-24),
Carbon-14 (C-14), Argon-41 (Ar-41),
and Potassium-40 (K-40). Most of our
internal exposure comes from K-40.
d. Radon (total average dose ~ 200 mrem/yr)
1) Radon comes from the radioactive decay of
uranium, which is naturally present in the
soil.
2) Radon is a gas. It can travel through the
soil and enter through building foundation
cracks. The greatest concentrations of
indoor radon are found in basements.
3) Radon emits alpha radiation. It presents a
hazard only when taken into the body (e.g.,
when inhaled).
Review characteristics of
alpha radiation.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
22
2. Manmade sources
The difference between manmade sources of
radiation and naturally occurring sources is the origin
of the source.
E01 Identify the major sources
of natural background and
manmade radiation.
The four top sources of manmade radiation
exposures are:
• Tobacco products
• Medical radiation
• Building materials
• Domestic water supply
a. Tobacco products (total average dose ~1300
mrem/yr for smokers)
b. Medical radiation sources (total average dose
~ 54 mrem/yr)
1) X rays (total average dose ~ 40mrem/yr)
a) X rays are similar to gamma rays;
however, they originate outside the
nucleus.
b) A typical radiation dose from a chest
X ray is about 10 mrem.
2) Diagnosis and therapy (total average dose
~14 mrem/yr)
In addition to X rays, radioactive materials
and radioactive sources are used in
medicine for diagnosis and therapy.
c. Building materials (total average dose ~7
mrem/yr)
d. Domestic water supply (total average dose ~5
mrem/yr)
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
23
e. Other minor contributors
Other contributors to dose include consumer
products, industrial sources, and atmospheric
testing of nuclear weapons.
Discuss: It has been more than
20 years since atmospheric
testing has been conducted.
3. Average annual dose
Section 31
The average annual total effective dose equivalent to
the general population (non-smokers) from naturally
occurring and manmade sources is about 360 mrem.
EO2 Identify the average
annual dose to the general
population from natural
background and manmade
sources of radiation.
B. Effects of Radiation on Cells
The human body is made up of many organ systems.
Each system is made up of tissues. Specialized cells
make up tissues. Ionizing radiation can potentially affect
the normal function of cells.
1. Biological effects begin with the ionization of atoms
a. The method by which radiation causes damage
to human cells is by ionization of atoms in the
cells. Atoms make up the cells that make up the
tissues of the body. Any potential radiation
damage begins with damage to atoms.
b. A cell is made up of two principal parts, the body
of the cell and the nucleus. The nucleus is like
the brain of the cell.
EO3 State the method by
which radiation causes
damage to cells.
Review the four types of
ionizing radiation.
c. When ionizing radiation hits a cell, it may strike a
vital part of the cell like the nucleus or a less
vital part of the cell, like the cytoplasm.
2. Cell sensitivity
Some cells are more sensitive than others to
environmental factors such as viruses, toxins, and
ionizing radiation.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
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a. Actively dividing and non-specialized cells
1) Cells in our bodies that are actively dividing
are more sensitive to ionizing radiation.
2) Cells that are rapidly dividing include blood-
forming cells, the cells that line our intestinal
tract, hair follicles, and cells that form
sperm.
b. Less actively dividing and more specialized cells
Cells that divide at a slower rate or are more
specialized (such as brain cells or muscle cells)
are not as sensitive to damage by ionizing
radiation.
3. Possible effects of radiation on cells
Several things can happen when a cell is exposed to
ionizing radiation. The following are possible effects
of radiation on cells.
EO4 Identify the possible
effects of radiation on cells.
a. There is no damage
b. Cells repair the damage and operate normally
1) The body of most cells is made up primarily
of water. When ionizing radiation hits a cell,
it is most likely to interact with the water in
the cell. One of the byproducts of radiation-
induced ionization of water is hydrogen
peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can damage
cell atomic structures.
2) Ionizing radiation can also hit the nucleus of
the cell. The nucleus contains the vital parts
of the cell, such as chromosomes. The
chromosomes determine cell function.
When chromosomes duplicate themselves,
the chromosomes transfer their information
to new cells. Radiation may cause a change
in the chromosome that does not affect the
cell.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
25
3) Damage to chromosomes and other cell
structures can be repaired. In fact, our
bodies repair a very large number of
chromosome breaks every day (References
7 and 10).
c. Cells are damaged and operate abnormally
1) Cell damage may not be repaired or may be
incompletely repaired. In that case, the cell
may not be able to function properly.
2) It is possible that a chromosome in the cell
nucleus could be damaged but not be
repaired correctly. If the cell continues to
reproduce, this is called a mutation and may
result in cancer.
d. Cells die as a result of the damage
Section 32
At any given moment, thousands of our cells die
and are replaced by normal functioning cells.
However, the radiation damage to a cell may be
so extensive that the cell dies prematurely.
C. Acute and Chronic Radiation Dose
Potential biological effects depend on how much and how
fast a radiation dose is received. Radiation doses can be
grouped into two categories: acute and chronic dose.
1. Acute radiation doses
a. High doses of radiation received in a short period
of time are called acute doses. The body’s cell
repair mechanisms are not as effective for
damage caused by an acute dose.
EO5 Define the terms “acute
dose” and “chronic dose.”
b. After an acute dose to the whole body
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
26
After an acute dose, damaged cells will be
replaced by new cells and the body will repair
itself, although this may take a number of
months. Only in extreme cases, such as with the
Chernobyl firefighters (500 rem), would the dose
be so high as to make recovery unlikely.
c. Acute doses to only part of the body
1) X-ray machines
It is possible that radiation exposure may be
limited to a part of the body, such as the
hands.
There have been accidents, particularly with
X-ray machines, in which individuals have
exposed their fingers to part of the intense
radiation beam. In some of these cases,
individuals have received doses of millions
of mrem to their fingers, and some
individuals have lost their finger or fingers.
It is important for individuals who work with
X-ray or similar equipment to be trained in
the safe use of this equipment.
2) Radiation therapy
a) Radiation therapy patients receive high
doses of radiation in a short period of
time, but generally only to a small
portion of the body (not a whole body
dose).
Reference 5.
b) The skin and limited tissue of these
patients may receive significant doses,
but doses to the region of a tumor are
many times higher.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
27
c) Ionizing radiation is used to treat cancer
in these patients because cancer cells
are rapidly dividing and therefore
sensitive to ionizing radiation. Some of
the side effects of people undergoing
radiation therapy are hair loss, nausea,
and tiredness.
d. Probability of a large acute dose
What is important to understand is that it takes a
large acute dose of radiation before any physical
effect is seen. These acute doses have
occurred in Hiroshima/Nagasaki, and in a few
radiation accidents, including Chernobyl. The
possibility of a radiological worker receiving a
large acute dose of ionizing radiation on the job is
extremely low. Typically, radioactive materials
are handled in small quantities that do not
produce a large amount of radiation. Where
there is a potential for larger exposures, many
safety features are required.
2. Chronic radiation doses
A chronic radiation dose is typically a small amount
of radiation received over a long period of time. An
example of a chronic dose is the dose we receive
from natural background every day of our lives. The
body’s cell repair mechanisms are better able to
repair a chronic dose than an acute dose.
EO5 Define the terms “acute
dose” and “chronic dose.”
EO6 State examples of
chronic radiation dose.
a. The body has time to repair damage because a
smaller percentage of the cells need repair at
any given time.
b. The body also has time to replace dead or non-
functioning cells with new, healthy cells.
Section 33
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
28
3. Biological effects of radiation exposure
Somatic effects refer to the effects radiation has on
the individual receiving the dose.
Genetic effects refer to mutations due to radiation
damage to the DNA of a cell. When this change is
in the DNA of parental reproductive cells, it is called
a heritable effect.
a. Somatic Effects
Somatic effects can best be described in terms
of prompt and delayed effects as discussed
below.
EO7 Define the term
“heritable effect.”
1) Prompt Effects
Although rare in the nuclear industry, large
doses are typically acute radiation doses
representing serious overexposures. The
biological effects of large acute doses are as
follows:
Table 2-1
Prompt Biological Effects
Dose (rem) Effect
0-25 None detectable through
symptoms or routine blood tests.
25-100 Changes in blood.
100-300 Nausea, anorexia.
300-600 Diarrhea, hemorrhage, and
possible death
Effects are dependent on
medical intervention and the
individual.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
29
2) Delayed Effects
Delayed effects may result from either a
single large acute overexposure or from
continuing low-level chronic exposure.
Cancer in its various forms is the most
important potential delayed effect of
radiation exposure. Other effects noted
include cataracts, life shortening and, for
individuals exposed in the womb, lower IQ
test scores.
b. Heritable Effects
A heritable effect is a physical mutation or trait
that is passed on to offspring. In the case of
heritable effects, the parental individual has
experienced damage to some genetic material in
the reproductive cells and has passed the
damaged genetic material onto offspring.
1) Heritable effects from radiation have never
been observed in humans but are considered
possible. They have been observed in
studies of plants and animals.
2) Heritable effects have not been found in the
77,000 Japanese children born to the
survivors of Hiroshima and Nagasaki (these
are children who were conceived after the
atom bomb -- i.e., heritable effects).
Studies have followed these children, their
children, and their grandchildren.
4. Factors affecting biological damage due to exposure to
radiation
a. Total dose
In general, the greater the dose, the greater the
potential for biological effects.
b. Dose rate (how fast)
The faster the dose is delivered, the less time the
body has to repair itself.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
30
c. Type of radiation
For example, internally deposited alpha emitters are
more damaging than beta or gamma emitters for the
same energy deposited.
d. Area of the body that receives a dose
In general, the larger the area of the body that
receives a dose, the greater the biological effect.
Extremities are less sensitive than blood forming and
other critical organs. That is why the annual dose
limit for extremities is higher than for a whole body
dose that irradiates internal organs.
e. Cell sensitivity
The most sensitive cells are those that are rapidly
dividing. Examples include blood cells, hair follicles,
and the cells lining the gastrointestinal tract.
f. Individual sensitivity
Some individuals are more sensitive to environmental
factors such as ionizing radiation.
The developing embryo/fetus is the most sensitive,
and children are more sensitive than adults.
Section 34
In general, the human body becomes relatively less
sensitive to ionizing radiation with increasing age.
The exception is that elderly people are more
sensitive than middle-aged adults due to the inability
to repair damage as quickly (less efficient cell repair
mechanisms).
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
31
D. Prenatal Radiation Exposure
Although no effects were seen in Japanese children
conceived after the atomic bomb, there were effects seen in
some children who were in the womb when exposed to the
atomic bomb radiation at Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Some of
these children were born with a slightly smaller head size,
lower average birth weight, and increased incidence of mental
retardation. Some later showed lower IQ test scores and
slower scholastic development, smaller physical size, and
increased incidence of behavioral problems.
EO8 State the potential
effects associated with
prenatal radiation dose.
1. Sensitivity of the fetus
Embryo/fetal cells are rapidly dividing, which makes them
sensitive to many environmental factors including ionizing
radiation. The embryo/fetus is most susceptible to
developing adverse health effects if exposed during the
time period of 8 - 15 weeks after conception.
2. Factors for potential effects associated with prenatal
exposures
Many chemical and physical (environmental) factors are
suspected of causing or known to have caused damage to
a fetus, especially early in the pregnancy. Radiation,
alcohol consumption, exposure to lead, and heat, such as
from hot tubs, are only a few such factors.
E. Risks in Perspective
Current radiation protection standards and practices are based
on the premise that any radiation dose, no matter how small,
can result in health effects such as cancer. Further, it is
assumed that these effects are produced in direct proportion
to the dose received (i.e., doubling the radiation dose results in
a doubling of the risk of the effect). These two assumptions
lead to a dose-response relationship, often referred to as the
linear, no-threshold model, for limiting health effects at very
low radiation dose levels.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
32
However, it should be noted that this is a conservative
assumption made in the absence of more conclusive evidence.
Health effects (primarily cancer) have been observed in
humans only at doses in excess of 10 rem delivered at high
dose rates. Below this dose, estimation of adverse health
effects is speculative. Risk estimates that are used to predict
health effects in exposed individuals or populations are based
on epidemiological studies of well-defined populations (e.g.,
the Japanese survivors of the atomic bombings in 1945 and
medical patients) exposed to relatively high doses delivered at
high dose rates. It is generally accepted that studies have not
demonstrated adverse health effects in individuals exposed to
small doses (less than 10 rem) delivered over a period of
many years.
1. Risk from exposures to ionizing radiation
a. No increases in cancer have been observed in
individuals who receive a dose of ionizing radiation at
occupational levels. The possibility of cancer
induction cannot be dismissed even though an
increase in cancers has not been observed. Risk
estimates have been derived from studies of
individuals who have been exposed to high levels of
radiation.
Section 35
b. The risk of cancer induction from radiation exposure
can be put into perspective. This can be done by
comparing it to the normal rate of cancer death in
today’s society. The current rate of cancer death
among Americans is about 20 percent. Taken from
a personal perspective, each of us has about 20
chances in 100 of dying of cancer. A radiological
worker who receives 25,000 mrem over a working
life increases his/her risk of cancer by 1 percent, or
has about 21 chances in 100 of dying of cancer. A
25,000 mrem dose is a fairly large dose over the
course of a working lifetime. The average annual
dose to DOE workers is less than 100 mrem, which
leads to a working lifetime dose (40 years assumed)
of no more than approximately 4,000 mrem.
Review: There are many other
causes of cancer, not just
radiation.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
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2. Comparison of risks
a. Table 2-2 compares the estimated days of life
expectancy lost as a result of exposure to radiation
and other health risks.
The following information is intended to put the
potential risk of radiation into perspective when
compared to other occupations and daily activities.
Table 2-2
Estimated Loss of Life Expectancy from Health Risks
EO9 Compare the biological
risks from chronic radiation
doses to the health risks
workers are subjected to in
industry and daily life.
Health Risk Estimated Loss of Life Expectancy
Smoking 20 cigarettes a day 6 years
Overweight (by 15%) 2 years
Alcohol consumption (U.S. average) 1 year
Agricultural accidents 320 days
Construction accidents 227 days
Auto accidents 207 days
Home accidents 74 days
Occupational radiation dose (1 rem/y), from
age 18-65 (47 rem total) 51 days
All natural hazards (earthquakes, lightning, flood) 7 days
Medical radiation 6 days
References 1 and 12 of the
PMG.
The estimates in Table 2-2 indicate that the health risks from
occupational radiation doses are smaller than the risks associated
with normal day-to-day activities that we have grown to accept.
b. Acceptance of a risk:
1) is a personal matter.
2) requires a good deal of informed judgment.
c. The risks associated with occupational radiation doses are
generally considered acceptable as compared to other
occupational risks by most scientific groups who have studied
them. There are some scientific groups who claim that the
risk is too high. DOE continues to fund and review worker
health studies to address these concerns.
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Module 2 Biological Effects Instructor’s Notes
34
III. SUMMARY
In summary, the estimated risk associated with occupation radiation
dose is similar to other routine occupational risks and much less
than some risks widely accepted in society. The risk of work in a
radiation environment is considered within the normal occupational
risk tolerance by national and international scientific groups.
However, acceptance of risk is an individual matter and is best
made with accurate information. A radiological worker should
understand the risk of working in a nuclear environment in relation
to the risks of daily life and the risks presented by work in other
professions. The intent of this module is to give you the facts about
radiation exposure risks and provide you with an opportunity to ask
questions about radiation risk. It is hoped that understanding
radiation risk and risk in general will help you to develop an
informed and healthy respect for radiation, and that your
understanding will eliminate excessive fear of or indifference to
radiation.
Section 36
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Limits Instructor’s Notes
35
Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Levels
Terminal Objective:
Given various time frames and different parts of the body, identify the applicable DOE dose limits, DOE
administrative control levels, and facility-specific administrative control levels in accordance with the lesson
material.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify his/her ability
to:
EO1 State the purposes of administrative control levels.
EO2 Identify the DOE radiation dose limits, DOE recommended administrative control level, and the facility
administrative control level.
EO3 State the site policy concerning prenatal radiation exposure.
EO4 Identify the employee’s responsibilities concerning radiation dose limits and administrative control
levels.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Levels Instructor’s Notes
36
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
This module will address DOE dose limits and
administrative control levels.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
DOE limits and administrative control levels have been
established for the purpose of restricting occupational
radiation exposures to levels of acceptable risk.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. Basis for and Purpose of Radiation Dose Equivalent Limits
and Administrative Control Levels
1. Basis for DOE dose limits
a. DOE has established radiation dose equivalent
limits for general workers. These limits are based
on guidance from national and international
scientific groups and government agencies, such
as:
1) International Commission on Radiological
Protection (ICRP)
2) National Council on Radiation Protection and
Measurements (NCRP)
3) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
b. The radiation protection standards for all DOE
workers are described in 10 CFR 835,
“Occupational Radiation Protection.” These
regulations apply to DOE, its contractors, and
persons utilizing or working in DOE facilities and
include dose equivalent limits.
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Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Levels Instructor’s Notes
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2. Facility administrative control levels for general
employees
The facility administrative control levels for workers
are lower than the DOE limits and are set to:
EO1 State the purpose of
administrative control levels.
a. Ensure the DOE limits and control levels are not
exceeded.
b. Help reduce individual and total worker population
radiation dose (collective dose).
B. Dose Equivalent Limits and Administrative Control Levels EO2 Identify the DOE
radiation dose limits and
facility administrative
controls levels.
Table 3-7
Dose Equivalent Limits and Controls
(Optional -- leave chart
blank and have student
complete chart.)DOE Dose
Equivalent
Limit
rem/year
DOE
Recommendations
rem/year
Facility
Administrative
Control Level
rem/year
Whole body 5 2 facility-specific
Extremity 50 N/A facility-specific
Skin & other
organs
50 N/A facility-specific
Lens of the
eye
15 N/A facility-specific
Member of the
public
Section 37
0.1 N/A facility-specific
Declared
pregnant
worker
0.5/gestation
period
N/A facility-specific
NOTE: 1) The chart is based on limits and control levels for routine conditions. The
limits and control levels are also based on the sum of internal and external dose.
External dose is from sources outside the body. Internal dose is from sources inside
the body. 2) The internal dose reported in a given calendar year is actually the
projected dose the individual will receive over the next 50 years from intakes in that
calendar year. Radioactive material may be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the
skin or open wound.
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Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Levels Instructor’s Notes
38
1. Whole body
a. Definition
The whole body extends from the top of the head
down to just below the elbow and just below the
knee. This is the location of most of the blood-
producing and vital organs.
b. Limit and control levels
The DOE whole body dose equivalent limit is
based on the sum of internal and external dose.
1) DOE radiation dose equivalent limit during
routine conditions is 5 rem/year.
2) Because DOE’s objective is to maintain
personnel radiation dose well below the
regulatory limits, the DOE Radiological
Control Technical Standard recommends a
DOE administrative control level during
routine conditions of 2 rem/year.
3) Facility administrative control level.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
2. Extremities
a. Definition
Extremities include the hands and arms below the
elbow, and the feet and legs below the knees.
b. Limit and control level
Extremities can withstand a much larger dose than
the whole body because there are no major blood-
producing organs located here.
1) DOE radiation dose equivalent limit for
extremities is 50 rem/year.
2) Facility administrative control levels.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
3. Skin and other organs
a. DOE radiation dose equivalent limit for skin and
other organs is 50 rem/year.
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Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Levels Instructor’s Notes
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b. Facility administrative control level
(Insert facility-specific information.)
4. Lens of the eye
a. DOE radiation dose equivalent limit for lens of the
eye is 15 rem/year.
b. Facility administrative control level.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
5. Declared pregnant worker: Embryo/fetus
After a female worker voluntarily notifies her employer
in writing that she is pregnant, she is considered a
declared pregnant worker. For the purposes of
radiological protection of the fetus/embryo, DOE
requires a special limit for dose to the fetus/embryo. In
addition, the DOE RCS recommends that the employer
provide the option of a mutually agreeable assignment
of work tasks, with no loss of pay or promotional
opportunity, such that further occupational radiation
exposure is unlikely.
C This declaration may be revoked, in writing, at
anytime by the declared pregnant worker.
b. DOE limit
For a declared pregnant worker who continues
working as a radiological worker, the following
radiation dose limit will apply.
1) The dose equivalent limit for the embryo/fetus
(during the entire gestation period) is 500
mrem.
a) Measures must be taken to avoid
substantial variation above the uniform
exposure rate necessary to meet the 500
mrem limit for the gestation period.
b) The DOE RCS recommends that efforts
be made to avoid exceeding 50
mrem/month to the embryo/fetus of the
declared pregnant worker.
Section 38
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Module 3: Radiation Limits and Administrative Control Levels Instructor’s Notes
40
2) If the dose equivalent to the embryo/fetus is
determined to have already exceeded 500
mrem when a worker notifies her employer of
her pregnancy, the worker shall not be
assigned to tasks where additional
occupational radiation exposure is likely during
the remainder of the pregnancy.
b. Site policy
(Insert facility-specific information.)
c. Facility administrative control level
(Insert facility-specific information.)
EO3 State the site policy
concerning prenatal radiation
exposure.
6. Members of the public
a. DOE radiation dose equivalent limit is
100 mrem/year.
b. Facility administrative control levels
(Insert facility-specific information.)
C. Worker Responsibilities Regarding Dose Limits
1. It is each employee’s responsibility to comply with
DOE dose limits and facility administrative control
levels.
2. If you suspect that dose limits or administrative control
levels are being approached or exceeded, you should
notify your supervisor immediately.
EO4 Identify the
employee’s responsibilities
concerning radiation dose
limits and administrative
control levels.
3. (Insert facility-specific information.)
III. SUMMARY
(Insert Site Summary.)
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
41
Module 4: ALARA Program
Terminal Objective:
Given different radiological conditions, identify the techniques for minimizing exposure to radiation and
radioactive material in accordance with lesson materials.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify his/her
ability to:
EO1 State the ALARA concept.
EO2 State the DOE/Site management policy for the ALARA program.
EO3 Identify the responsibilities of management, the Radiological Control Organization, and the
radiological worker in the ALARA Program.
EO4 Identify methods for reducing external and internal radiation dose.
EO5 State the pathways by which radioactive material can enter the body.
EO6 Identify methods a radiological worker can use to minimize radioactive waste.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
42
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
This module is designed to inform the student of the
concept of ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
This module discusses radiation hazards. Methods for
reducing both external and internal doses from radiation
and radioactive material are also discussed.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
DOE establishes dose limits and administrative control
levels for general employees. However, radiological
workers and their management strive to keep radiation
dose well below these limits. Radiological workers should
always try to maintain their radiation dose As Low As
Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. ALARA Program
ALARA stands for As Low As Reasonably Achievable.
ALARA is an approach to radiation safety that strives to
manage and control doses (both individual and collective) to
the work force and the general public to as low as is
reasonable taking into account social, technical, economic,
practical, and public policy considerations.
Section 39
1. ALARA concept
a. ALARA stands for As Low As Reasonably
Achievable.
EO1 State the ALARA
concept.
b. Because some risk, however small, exists from
any radiation dose, all doses should be kept
ALARA. ALARA includes reducing both
internal and external radiation dose.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
43
c. The ALARA concept is an integral part of all site
activities that involve the use of sources of ionizing
radiation.
d. ALARA is the responsibility of all employees.
2. DOE Management Policy for the ALARA program
Personal radiation exposure shall be maintained As
Low As Reasonably Achievable. Radiation exposure
to the work force and public shall be controlled such
that:
EO2 State the DOE/Site
management policy for the
ALARA program.
• Radiation doses are well below regulatory limits.
• There is no radiation exposure without an overall
benefit.
3. Site policy
(Insert facility-specific information.)
B. Responsibilities for the ALARA Program
The individual radiological worker is ultimately responsible
for maintaining his/her radiation dose ALARA. However,
management and Radiological Control personnel also play
an important role in the ALARA program. The following
are some of the responsibilities of the three groups:
EO3 Identify the
responsibilities of
Management, the
Radiological Control
Organization, and the
radiological worker in the
ALARA Program.
1. Management
(Insert facility-specific information.)
2. Radiological Control Organization
(Insert facility-specific information.)
3. Radiological workers
Each radiological worker is expected to demonstrate
responsibility and accountability. This is accomplished
through an informed, disciplined, and cautious attitude
toward radiation and radioactivity.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
44
C. External and Internal Radiation Dose Reduction
Engineering controls should be the primary method to
control exposure (e.g., enclosed hoods). Administrative
controls is the next method to control exposures (e.g.,
postings). Personnel protective equipment is the last
method (e.g., respirators).
1. Basic protective measures used to minimize external
dose include:
• Minimizing time in radiation areas
• Maximizing the distance from a source of
radiation
• Using shielding whenever possible
• Reducing the amount of radioactive material
(source reduction)
a. Methods for minimizing time
Reducing the time spent in a field of radiation will
lower the dose received by the workers.
EO4 Identify methods for
reducing external and
internal radiation dose.
1) Plan and discuss the task thoroughly prior to
entering the area. Use only the number of
workers actually required to do the job.
2) Have all necessary tools present before
entering the area.
3) Use mock-ups and practice runs that
duplicate work conditions.
4) Take the most direct route to the job site if
possible and practical.
5) Never loiter in an area controlled for
radiological purposes.
6) Work efficiently and swiftly.
7) Do the job right the first time.
8) Perform as much work outside the area as
possible. When practical, remove parts or
components to areas with lower dose rates to
perform work.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
45
9) Do not exceed stay times. In some cases, the
Radiological Control Organization may limit
the amount of time a worker may stay in an
area due to various reasons. This is known
as “stay time.” If you have been assigned a
stay time, do not exceed this time.
Section 40
10) (Insert facility-specific information.)
b. Methods for maximizing distance from sources of
radiation
The worker should stay as far away as possible
from the source of radiation.
EO4 Identify methods for
reducing external and
internal radiation dose.
1) Stay as far away from radiation sources as
practical given the task assignment. For point
sources (such as valves and hot spots), the dose
rate follows a principle called the inverse square
law. This law states that if you double the
distance, the dose rate falls to 1/4 of the original
dose rate. If you triple the distance, the dose
rate falls to 1/9 of the original dose rate.
Dose RateA=
Dose RateB x Distance2
A
Distance2
B
2) Be familiar with radiological conditions in the
area.
3) During work delays, move to lower dose rate
areas.
4) Use remote handling devices when possible.
5) (Insert facility-specific information.)
c. Proper uses of shielding
Shielding reduces the amount of radiation dose to
the worker. Different materials shield a worker
from the different types of radiation.
EO4 Identify methods for
reducing external and
internal radiation dose.
1) Take advantage of permanent shielding, such as
non-radiological equipment/structures.
2) Use shielded containments when available.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
46
3) Wear safety glasses/goggles to protect your
eyes from beta radiation, when applicable.
4) Temporary shielding (e.g., lead or concrete
blocks) can only be installed when proper
procedures are used.
5) Temporary shielding will be marked or labeled
with wording such as “Temporary Shielding -
Do Not Remove Without Permission from
Radiological Control.”
6) Once temporary shielding is installed, it cannot
be removed without proper authorization.
• When evaluating the use of shielding, the
estimated dose saved is compared to the
estimated dose incurred during shield
installation and removal.
7) (Insert facility-specific information.)
d. Source Reduction
Source reduction is another method of reducing
radiation doses. Source reduction often involves
procedures such as flushing radioactive systems,
decontamination, and removal of contaminated
items. This is done to reduce the amount of
radioactive materials present in/on a system
because these materials can add to radiation levels
in an area.
2. Internal radiation dose reduction
a. Pathways
Internal dose is a result of radioactive materials
being taken into the body. Radioactive material
can enter the body through one or more of the
following pathways:
EO5 State the pathways
through which radioactive
material can enter the body.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
47
1) Inhalation
2) Ingestion
3) Absorption through the skin
4) Absorption through wounds
This information excludes
exposure from natural
internal sources of
radioactivity that is discussed
in Unit 305.
b. Methods to reduce internal radiation dose
Reducing the potential for radioactive materials to
enter the body is important. As previously stated,
install or use engineering controls followed by
administrative controls as the primary methods to
control internal exposure. PPE is the last choice
for controlling internal exposure. In addition, the
following are methods the worker can use.
EO4 Identify methods for
reducing external and
internal radiation dose.
1) Wear respirators properly when required.
Respirators should only be used by
personnel qualified to wear them.
Section 41
2) Report all wounds or cuts (including
scratches and scabs) to the appropriate
facility-specific organization before
entering any area controlled for
radiological purposes.
(Discuss reporting wounds
or cuts with facility-specific
information.)
3) Comply with the requirements of the
controlling work documents.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
48
4) Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew in
Radioactive Materials Areas,
Contamination Areas, High
Contamination Areas, or Airborne
Radioactivity Areas, as dispersible
radioactive materials may be present.
5) (Insert facility-specific information.)
3. Lessons Learned
Review lessons learned from your site or other sites to
demonstrate what may be learned from mistakes
leading to excessive personnel exposures.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
D. Radioactive Waste Minimization
One of the potential consequences of working with
radioactive materials is the generation of radioactive waste.
This radioactive waste must be properly disposed.
Examples of radioactive waste include:
• Paper
• Gloves
• Glassware
• Rags
• Brooms, mops
The ALARA concept also applies to minimizing radioactive
waste. This will reduce personnel exposure associated
with the handling, packaging, storing, and disposing of
radioactive waste. This will also reduce the resultant
costs. It is very important for each radiological worker to
minimize the amount of radioactive waste generated.
1. Methods to minimize radioactive waste
The following information identifies methods to
minimize radioactive waste.
a. Minimize the materials used for radiological work.
EO6 Identify methods a
radiological worker can use
to minimize radioactive
waste.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
49
1) Take only the tools and materials you
need for the job into areas controlled for
radiological purposes. This is especially
important for contamination areas.
2) Unpack equipment and tools in a clean
area. This will help to avoid bringing
unnecessary material to the job site. This
material can become radioactive waste if
it is contaminated.
3) Use tools and equipment that are
identified for radiological work when
possible. (Add facility-specific
information about where such tools are
stored.)
4) Use only the materials required to clean
the area. An excessive amount of bags,
rags, and solvent adds to radioactive
waste.
5) Sleeve, or otherwise protect with a
covering such as plastic, clean materials
brought into contaminated areas.
6) (Insert facility-specific information.)
b. Separate radioactive waste from nonradioactive
waste.
1) Place radioactive waste in the containers
identified for radioactive waste. Do not
place radioactive waste in nonradioactive
waste containers.
2) Do not throw nonradioactive waste, or
radioactive material that may be reused,
into radioactive waste containers.
3) (Insert facility-specific information.)
c. Separate compactible material from
noncompactible material.
d. Minimize the amount of mixed waste generated.
Mixed waste is waste that contains both
radioactive and hazardous materials.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 4: ALARA Program Instructor’s Notes
50
e. Use good housekeeping techniques.
f. (Insert facility-specific information.)
III. SUMMARY
This module addressed key points for the implementation and
success of the Site’s ALARA Program. Responsibilities for all
employees and methods to achieve the ALARA concepts were
also discussed.
Section 42
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 5: Personnel Monitoring Programs Instructor’s Notes
51
Module 5: Personnel Monitoring Programs
Terminal Objective:
Given different personnel monitoring programs, identify the purpose, types, and worker
responsibilities for each in accordance with lesson material.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify
his/her ability to:
EO1 State the purpose and worker responsibilities for each of the external dosimeter devices
used at the site.
EO2 State the purpose and worker responsibilities for each type of internal monitoring
method used at the site.
EO3 State the methods for obtaining radiation dose records.
EO4 Identify worker responsibilities for reporting radiation dose received from other sites
and from medical applications.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 5: Personnel Monitoring Programs Instructor’s Notes
52
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
The various types of personnel monitoring devices and the
employee’s responsibilities concerning each will be
discussed.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
External exposure results from radiation that comes from
radioactive material outside of the body. A “personnel
dosimeter” is a device used to measure external dose.
Internal dose is radiation that comes from radioactive
material within the body. The whole body counter, chest
counter, and bioassay sampling are methods for measuring
internal dose.
Personnel monitoring for radiation dose involves assessing
exposure due to external sources and internal sources.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. External Dosimetry
A personnel dosimeter is a device used to measure
radiation dose. Different types of external dosimeters
may be used. Radiological Control personnel determine
which type(s) are needed. The following information
identifies the different types used at this facility.
1. Purpose
(Insert facility-specific information to describe
purpose, and basic operation of each type.)
EO1 State the purpose and
worker responsibility for each
of the external dosimeter
devices used at the site.
2. Worker responsibilities for external dosimetry include
the following:
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 5: Personnel Monitoring Programs Instructor’s Notes
53
a. Wear dosimeters when required.
Radiological Control personnel identify the
requirements. Check signs and radiological work
permits (RWPs) for the requirements.
b. Wear dosimeters properly.
1) Primary dosimeters should be worn on the
chest area. This area is on or between the
neck and the waist. Radiological control
procedures or work authorizations may also
identify proper placement.
2) Supplement dosimeters are worn in
accordance with site policy. This includes
pocket, electronic dosimeters, extremity
dosimetry, or multiple dosimeter sets.
c. Take proper actions if dosimeter is lost, damaged,
contaminated, or off-scale. If in an area
controlled for radiological purposes, take the
following actions:
1) Place work activities in a safe condition.
2) Alert others.
3) Immediately exit the area.
4) Notify radiological control personnel.
Section 43
d. Store the dosimeter in the proper storage location.
e. Return dosimeters for processing as directed.
Personnel that fail to return dosimeters may be
restricted from continued radiological work.
Discuss facility-specific
policy for storage of
dosimeters.
f. Dosimeters issued from the permanent work site
cannot be worn at another site.
g. (Insert facility-specific information.)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 5: Personnel Monitoring Programs Instructor’s Notes
54
B. Internal Monitoring
Whole body counters, chest counters, and/or bioassay
samples may be used to monitor radioactive material in the
human body. In some cases, the locations of radioactive
material may be determined. An internal dose estimate
may be performed based on these measurements.
1. Purpose of each type of internal monitoring.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
2. Worker responsibilities
(Insert facility-specific information.)
C. Methods for Obtaining Radiation Dose Records
EO2 State the purpose and
work responsibilities for each
type of internal monitoring
method used at the site.
1. Individuals who are monitored for exposure at DOE
facilities have the right to request reports of that
exposure as follows:
EO3 State the method for
obtaining radiation dose
records.
a. Upon the request from an individual terminating
employment, records of radiation dose shall be
provided by the DOE facility within 90 days. If
requested, a written estimate of radiation
exposure received by the terminating employee
shall be provided at the time of termination.
b. Each individual required to be monitored for
radiation exposure at a DOE facility shall receive
a report of that exposure on an annual basis.
c. Detailed information concerning any individual’s
dose shall be made available to the individual
upon request of that individual.
d. When a DOE contractor is required to report to
the Department, pursuant to Departmental
requirements for occurrence reporting and
processing, any exposure of an individual to
radiation and/or radioactive material, or planned
special exposure, the contractor shall also provide
that individual with a report on his/her exposure
data included therein. Such a report shall be
transmitted at a time not later than the transmittal
to the Department.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 5: Personnel Monitoring Programs Instructor’s Notes
55
2. Reporting radiation dose received from other facilities
and medical applications
a. Notify Radiological Control personnel prior to and
following any radiation dose received at another
facility so that dose records can be updated.
EO4 Identify worker
responsibilities for reporting
radiation dose received from
other sites and from medical
applications.
b. Notify Radiological Control of medical radioactive
applications. This does not include routine
medical and dental X rays. This does include
therapeutic and diagnostic radio-
pharmaceuticals.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
III. SUMMARY
(Insert facility-specific information.)
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
56
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings
Terminal Objective:
Given an area controlled for radiological purposes, the participant will be able to enter and exit the
area in accordance with radiological access controls and postings.
Enabling Objectives:
Section 44
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify
his/her ability to:
EO1 State the purpose of and information found on Radiological Work Permits (RWPs).
EO2 Identify the worker’s responsibilities in using Radiological Work Permits.
EO3 Identify the colors and symbol used on radiological postings.
EO4 State the radiological and disciplinary consequences of disregarding radiological postings,
signs, and labels.
EO5 Define the areas controlled for radiological purposes.
EO6 Identify the minimum or recommended requirements for entering, working in, and exiting:
a. Radiological Buffer Areas
b. Radiation Areas
c. Radioactive Material Areas
d. Underground Radioactive Material Areas
e. Soil Contamination Areas
f. Fixed Contamination Areas
EO7 Identify the areas a Radiological Worker I trained person may enter.
EO8 Identify the purpose and use of personnel contamination monitors.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
57
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
Radiological Work Permits (RWP) used to control access
into areas controlled for radiological purposes will be
addressed. In addition, radiological requirements for
working in these areas will be presented.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
The previous modules discussed some important
radiological topics from a theoretical perspective. The
current module will discuss the application of this theory to
control radiological work in a safe but efficient manner.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. Radiological Work Permits (RWPs)
1. Purpose of RWPs
RWPs may be used to establish radiological controls
for entry into areas controlled for radiological purposes.
They serve to:
a. Inform workers of area radiological conditions.
b. Inform workers of entry requirements.
EO1 State the purpose of
and information found on
Radiological Work Permits
(RWPs).
c. Provide a record relating radiation doses to
specific work activities.
2. Types of RWPs
The type of RWP used will depend on the radiological
conditions in the area.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
58
a. General Radiological Work Permit
1) This should be used to control routine or
repetitive activities such as tours and
inspections or minor work activities in areas
with well characterized, stable radiological
conditions.
2) General RWPs should not be approved for
periods longer than 1 year.
3) Examples of use
(Insert facility-specific information.)
b. Job-specific radiological work permit
1) This should be used to control nonroutine
operations or work in areas with changing
radiological conditions.
2) It should only remain in effect for the duration
of a particular job.
3) Examples of use
(Insert facility-specific information.)
c. An alternate formal mechanism, such as written
procedures, experiment authorizations, or other
written authorization, may be used in lieu of an
RWP. The alternate method should include the
elements of an RWP.
3. Information found on the RWP
The RWP should include the following information:
a. Description of work.
b. Work area radiological conditions
This information may also be determined from
area radiological survey maps/diagrams or the
radiological posting for that area.
Section 45
c. Dosimetry requirements.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
59
d. Pre-job briefing requirements.
Pre-job briefings generally consist of discussions
among workers and supervisor(s) concerning
various radiological aspects of the job. The
purpose of the briefings should be to discuss
radiological exposure and appropriate actions for
unplanned situations.
e. Required level of training for entry.
f. Protective clothing/equipment requirements.
g. Radiological Control coverage requirements and
stay time controls, as applicable.
h. Limiting radiological condition that may void the
permit.
i. Special dose or contamination reduction.
considerations.
j. Special personnel frisking considerations.
k. Technical work document to be used, as
applicable.
l. Date of issue and expiration.
m. Authorizing signatures and unique identifying
designation or number.
4. Responsibilities of the worker when using an RWP
a. Workers must read and comply with the RWP
requirements.
b. Workers must acknowledge they have read,
understood, and agreed to comply with the RWP
prior to entering the area and after any revision to
the RWP. This is done by signature or through
electronic means.
EO2 Identify the worker’s
responsibilities in using
Radiological Work Permits.
c. Radiological Control or a supervisor should be
contacted prior to work if the RWP appears to be
incorrect or is difficult to understand.
d. Do not make substitutions for specified
requirements.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
60
e. Report to Radiological Control personnel if
radiological controls are not adequate or are not
being followed.
B. Radiological Postings
1. Radiological postings are used to:
a. Alert personnel to the presence of radiation and
radioactive materials.
b. Aid in minimizing personnel dose.
c. Prevent the spread of contamination. In addition,
10 CFR 835 - Subpart F specifies requirements for
personnel entry controls for HR and VHR Areas.
2. Posting requirements
a. Areas and materials controlled for radiological
purposes will be designated with a magenta or
black standard three-bladed radiological warning
symbol (trefoil) on a yellow background.
EO3 Identify the colors and
symbol used on radiological
postings.
b. Fixed barriers such as walls, rope, tape, or chain
will designate the boundaries of posted areas.
Where possible, the barriers will be yellow and
magenta in color.
c. The barriers should be placed to clearly mark the
boundary of the radiological areas.
d. Entrance points to radiologically controlled areas
should have signs or postings stating the entry
requirements, such as “Personnel Dosimeters,
RWP and Respirator Required.”
e. In some cases, more than one radiological
condition may be present. The area shall be
posted to include all of the radiological conditions
that are present.
See 10 CFR 835.603.
f. In areas of ongoing work activities, the dose rate
and contamination levels (or ranges of each) may
be included in postings.
g. The posting will be placed where it is clearly
visible to personnel.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
61
3. Responsibilities of the worker
a. Before entering an area controlled for radiological
purposes, read all of the signs. Since radiological
conditions can change, the signs will also be
changed to reflect the new conditions. A sign or
posting that you saw one day may be replaced
with a new one the next day.
Section 46
EO2 Identify the worker’s
responsibilities in using
Radiological Work Permits.
b. Obey any posted, written or oral requirements
including “Exit,” “Evacuate,” “Hold Point,” or
“Stop Work Orders.” These requirements may be
included in RWPs and work procedures, and may
come from Radiological Control personnel at the
job site.
1) Hold points are specific times noted in a
procedure, work permit, etc., where work
must stop for Radiological Control or other
evaluations.
2) Stop Work Orders are usually a result of:
a) Inadequate radiological controls
b) Failure to implement radiological controls
c) Radiological hold point not being observed
d) Changing or unexpected conditions.
c. Report unusual conditions such as leaks, spills, or
alarming area monitors to the Radiological Control
personnel.
d. Be aware of changing radiological conditions. Be
aware that others’ activities may change the
radiological conditions in your area.
e. If any type of material used to identify a
radiological hazard is found outside an area
controlled for radiological purposes, it should be
reported to Radiological Control personnel
immediately.
4. Consequences of disregarding radiological postings,
signs, and labels
EO4 State the radiological
and disciplinary
consequences of
disregarding radiological
postings, signs, and labels.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
62
a. It is each worker’s responsibility to read and
comply with all the information identified on
radiological postings, signs, and labels.
b. Disregarding any of these or removing/relocating
them without permission can lead to:
1) Unnecessary or excessive radiation dose .
2) Personnel contamination.
3) Disciplinary actions such as formal reprimand,
suspension, or even termination.
C. Areas a RW I Trained Person Can Enter
The level of training a radiological worker has successfully
completed determines the types of areas he/she can enter.
EO7 Identify the areas a
Radiological Worker I-
trained person may enter.
1. Radiological Buffer Areas (RBAs)
RBAs are intermediate areas which DOE RCS
recommends be established to prevent the spread of
radioactive contamination and to protect personnel
from radiation exposure. This area designation is not
required by 10 CFR 835 and its use may vary from site
to site.
EO5 Define the areas
controlled for radiological
purposes.
a. Posting Recommendations:
“CAUTION, RADIOLOGICAL BUFFER
AREA”
b. Recommended requirements for unescorted entry
should include:
1) Appropriate training, such as Radiological
Worker I Training.
EO6 Identify the minimum
or recommended
requirements for entering,
working in, and exiting
Radiological Buffer Areas.
2) Personnel dosimetry, as appropriate.
3) (Insert facility-specific information.)
c. Recommended requirements for working in RBA
(Insert facility-specific information.)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
63
d. Recommended requirements for exiting an RBA:
Personnel exiting a RBA containing a
Contamination Area, High Contamination Area, or
Airborne Radioactivity Area should, at a minimum,
perform a hand and foot frisk.
1) General guidelines for handheld monitoring
using a hand-held radioactive contamination
survey instrument include the following:
E08 Identify the purpose and
use of personnel
contamination methods.
a) Verify the instrument is on, set to the
proper scale, and within the calibration
date.
Section 47
b) Verify instrument response and source
check.
c) Ensure the audible function of the
instrument is on and can be heard.
d) Determine the instrument background.
(Insert facility-specific information concerning
acceptable background rates).
e) Survey hands before picking up the probe.
f) Hold the probe approximately ½" from
the surface being surveyed for
beta/gamma and ¼" for alpha radiation.
g) Move probe slowly over the surface,
approximately 2" per second.
h) If the count rate increases during frisking,
pause for 5 to 10 seconds over the area to
provide adequate time for instrument
response.
2) Alarm response for hand-held survey
instrument
a) If contamination is indicated, remain in the
area and notify the Radiological Control
personnel.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
64
b) Minimize cross contamination. For
example, put a glove on a contaminated
hand while waiting for the Radiological
Control personnel to arrive.
3) Portal monitors
(Insert facility-specific information.)
2. Radiation Areas (RAs)
RAs are any areas accessible to individuals in which
radiation levels could result in an individual’s receiving
a deep dose equivalent in excess of 5 mrem/hr. This is
established based on dose rates at 30 cm from the
source of radiation.
a. Posting Requirements:
“CAUTION, RADIATION AREA”
Additionally, the posting may state:
“Personnel Dosimetry Required for Entry”
b. Minimum requirements for unescorted entry
should be:
1) Appropriate training, such as Radiological
Worker I Training.
2) Personnel dosimeter.
3) Worker’s signature on the RWP, as
applicable.
4) (Insert facility-specific information.)
E05 Define the areas
controlled for radiological
purposes.
E06 Identify the minimum or
recommended requirements
for entering, working in, and
exiting Radiation Areas.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
65
c. Minimum requirements for working in an RA
1) Don’t loiter in the area.
2) Follow proper emergency response to
abnormal situations.
3) Avoid hot spots.
Hot spots are localized sources of radiation or
radioactive material normally within facility
piping or equipment. The radiation levels of
hot spots exceed the general area radiation
level by more than a factor of 5 and are
greater than 100 mrem per hour on contact.
Posting:
“Caution, Hot Spot”
4) (Insert facility-specific information.)
d. Minimum requirements for exiting a RA:
1) Observe posted exit requirements
2) Sign-out on RWP or equivalent, as applicable
3) Insert facility-specific information
3. Radioactive Materials Area (RMA)
RMA means an area, accessible to individuals, in
which items or containers of radioactive material exist
and the total activity of rad-material exceeds ten times
the applicable value provided in 10 CFR 835 Appendix
E.
EO5 Define the areas
controlled for radiological
purposes.
a. Radioactive material may consist of equipment,
components, or materials that have been exposed
to contamination or have been activated. Sealed
or unsealed radioactive sources are also included.
b. Radioactive material may be stored in drums,
boxes, etc., and will be marked appropriately.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
66
c. Posting Requirements:
“CAUTION, RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL(S)”
d. Exceptions to posting requirements.
Section 48
1) Areas may be excepted from the posting
requirements for periods of less than 8
continuous hours when placed under
continuous observation and control of an
individual knowledgeable of, and empowered
to implement, required access and exposure
control measures.
See 10 CFR 835.604
2) The following areas may be excepted from
the radioactive material area posting
requirements:
a) Areas posted Radiation Area, High
Radiation Area, Very High Radiation
Area, Airborne Radioactivity Area,
Contamination Area, or High
Contamination Area
b) Areas in which each item or container of
radioactive material is clearly and
adequately labeled in accordance with 10
CFR 835 such that individuals entering the
area are made aware of the hazard.
c) The radioactive material consists solely of
structures or installed components which
have been activated.
d) Areas containing only packages received
from radioactive material transportation
labeled and in a non-degraded condition
need not be posted in accordance with 10
CFR 835 until the packages are surveyed.
e. Minimum requirements for unescorted entry
should include:
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
67
1) Appropriate training, such as Radiological
Worker I Training.
2) For entry into Radioactive Material Areas
where whole body dose rates exceed 5
mrem/hour, the Radiation Area entry
requirements will apply.
EO6 Identify the minimum
or recommended
requirements for entering,
working in, and exiting
Radioactive Materials
Areas.
3) For entry into Radioactive Material Areas
where removable contamination levels exceed
the specified DOE limits, the Contamination
Area entry requirements will apply.
4) (Insert facility-specific information.)
Show sign.
f. Minimum requirements for working in an RMA
(Insert facility-specific information.)
g. Minimum requirements for exiting an RMA
(Insert facility-specific information.)
4. Fixed Contamination Area (Recommended)
This area designation is recommended by the DOE
RCS. It may be an area or equipment that contains
radioactive material that cannot be easily removed
from surfaces by nondestructive means, such as
wiping, brushing, or laundering. This type of area
designation is not required by 10 CFR 835 and its use
may vary from site to site.
EO5 Define the areas
controlled for radiological
purposes.
EO6 Identify the minimum
or recommended
requirements for entering,
working in, and exiting Fixed
Contamination Areas.
a. Recommended Posting:
“CAUTION, FIXED CONTAMINATION”
b. Contact the Radiological Control Organization for
entry and exit requirements.
c. (Insert facility-specific information.)
Show sign.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
68
5. Soil Contamination Areas (for work that doesn’t
disturb the soil) (Recommended)
This area designation is recommended by the DOE
RCS. It contains surface soil or subsurface
contamination levels that exceed the recommended
DOE limits. This type of area designation is not
required by 10 CFR 835 and its use may vary from site
to site.
EO5 Define the areas
controlled for radiological
purposes.
a. Posting:
“CAUTION, SOIL CONTAMINATION AREA”
b. Contact the Radiological Control Organization for
entry and exit requirements.
c. (Insert facility-specific information.)
EO6 Identify the minimum
or recommended
requirements for entering,
working in.,and exiting Soil
Contamination Areas.
Show sign.
Section 49
6. Underground Radioactive Materials Areas (URMAS)
(when an individual is not likely to receive a dose of
>0.1 rem in a year) (Recommended)
URMAS are area designations recommended by the
DOE RCS. They are established to indicate the
presence of underground items that contain radioactive
materials such as pipelines, radioactive cribs, covered
ponds, inactive burial grounds, and covered spills. This
type of area designation is not required by 10 CFR 835,
and its use may vary from site to site.
EO5 Define the areas
controlled for radiological
purposes.
a. Posting:
“UNDERGROUND RADIOACTIVE
MATERIALS”
Show sign.
Special instructions such as, "Consult with
Radiological Control Organization before Digging"
or "Subsurface Contamination Exists" may be
included.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
69
b. General requirements:
1) An Underground Radioactive Materials Area
may be exempt from the general entry and
exit requirements if individual doses do not
exceed 100 mrem in a year.
EO6 Identify the minimum
or recommended
requirements for entering,
working in, and exiting
Underground Radioactive
Material Areas.
2) Contact the Radiological Control Organization
prior to entry.
c. (Insert facility-specific information.)
D. Areas a RW I Trained Person May Not Enter
1. High Radiation Areas (HRAs)
HRA is any area accessible to individuals in which
radiation levels could result in an individual receiving a
deep dose equivalent in excess of 100 mrem/hr at 30
centimeters from the source.
a. Posting Requirements:
“CAUTION or DANGER, HIGH RADIATION
AREA”
Additionally, the posting may state:
“Personnel Dosimetry Required for Entry”
Show sign.
b. Unescorted entry into this area requires
appropriate training, such as RW II or RW I with
the High Radiation Area training module.
2. Very High Radiation Areas (VHRs)
A VHR is any area accessible to individuals in which
radiation levels could result in an individual receiving an
absorbed dose in excess of 500 rad/hr at 1 meter from
the source of radiation.
a. Posting Requirements:
“GRAVE DANGER, VERY HIGH
RADIATION AREA”
Show sign.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
70
3. Contamination Areas (CAs)
CAs are those areas, accessible to individuals, in which
removable contamination levels are greater than 1 time
but less than or equal to 100 times the specified limits
in Appendix D of 10 CFR 835.
a. Posting Requirements:
“CAUTION, CONTAMINATION AREA”
b. Unescorted entry into this area requires
appropriate training, such as RW II training.
4. High Contamination Areas (HCAs)
An HCA is an area, accessible to individuals, in which
removable contamination levels are 100 times or more
the specified limits in Appendix D of 10 CFR 835.
a. Posting Requirements:
“CAUTION or DANGER, HIGH
CONTAMINATION AREA”
Show sign.
Additionally, the posting may state:
“RWP REQUIRED FOR ENTRY”
b. Unescorted entry into this area requires
appropriate training, such as RW II training.
5. Airborne Radioactivity Areas (ARAs)
ARAs are those areas, accessible to individuals, where
the concentration of airborne radioactivity, above
natural background, exceeds or is likely to exceed the
specified limits in 10 CFR 835.
a. Posting Requirements:
“CAUTION or DANGER AIRBORNE
RADIOACTIVITY AREA”
Additionally, the posting may state:
“RWP REQUIRED FOR ENTRY”
Show sign.
Section 50
b. Unescorted entry into this area requires
appropriate training, such as RW II training.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 6: Radiological Access Controls and Postings Instructor’s Notes
71
III. SUMMARY
(Insert facility-specific information.)
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 7: Radiological Emergencies Instructor’s Notes
72
Module 7: Radiological Emergencies
Terminal Objective:
Given a radiological emergency or alarm, identify the appropriate responses in accordance with
approved lesson materials.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to SELECT the correct response from a group of responses to verify
his/her ability to:
EO1 State the purpose and types of emergency alarms.
EO2 Identify the correct responses to emergencies and alarms.
EO3 State the possible consequences of disregarding radiological alarms.
EO4 State the site administrative emergency radiation dose guidelines.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 7: Radiological Emergencies Instructor’s Notes
73
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
This module discusses off-normal and emergency
situations and the appropriate response to each.
Radiological alarms associated with monitoring equipment
will also be discussed.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
Monitoring systems are used to warn personnel when
off-normal radiological conditions exist. Radiological
workers must become familiar with these alarms and
know the response to each. These responses will help to
minimize exposure and personal contamination during off-
normal conditions.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. Emergency Alarms and Responses
Equipment that monitors radiation dose rates and airborne
contamination levels is placed throughout DOE
radiological facilities. It is essential for radiological
workers to recognize the equipment and the associated
alarms and know the appropriate response.
EO1 State the purpose and
types of emergency alarms.
1. Area Radiation Monitors
C Types and purpose
C Operational check (if appropriate)
C Alarms
C Appropriate response
(Insert facility-specific information.)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 7: Radiological Emergencies Instructor’s Notes
74
2. Airborne Contamination Monitors
C Types and purpose
C Operational check (if appropriate)
C Alarms
C Appropriate response
(Insert facility-specific information.)
EO2 Identify the correct
responses to emergencies and
alarms.
3. Disregard for Radiological Alarms
Disregarding any of these radiological alarms may
lead to:
EO3 State the possible
consequences of disregarding
radiological alarms.
C Possible excessive radiation dose
C Unnecessary spread of contamination
C Unnecessary personal contamination
C Disciplinary action
B. Radiological Emergency Situations
Working in a radiological environment requires more
precautionary measures than performing the same job in
a nonradiological setting. If an emergency arises during
radiological work, response actions may be necessary to
ensure personnel safety.
1. Personnel injuries in areas controlled for radiological
purposes.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
EO2 Identify the correct
responses to emergencies
and/or alarms.
Section 51
2. Situations that require immediate exit from an area
controlled for radiological purpose.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
3. An accidental breach of a radioactive system or spill
of radioactive material
a. For radioactive spills involving highly toxic
chemicals, workers should immediately exit the
area without attempting to stop or secure the
spill. They should then promptly notify Industrial
Hygiene or the Hazardous Material team and
Radiological Control personnel.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 7: Radiological Emergencies Instructor’s Notes
75
b. For other spills:
C Stop or secure the operation causing the
spill, if it can be done safely
C Warn others in the area and notify
Radiological Control personnel
C Isolate the spill area, if possible
C Minimize individual exposure and
contamination
C Secure unfiltered ventilation (fan, open
windows, etc.)
C. Considerations in Rescue and Recovery Operations
1. In extremely rare cases, emergency exposure to high
levels of radiation may be necessary. This is done to
rescue personnel or protect major property.
2. Rescue and recovery operations that involve
radiological hazards can be very complex.
3. The type of response to these operations is generally
left up to the official in charge of the emergency
situation. The official’s judgment is guided by many
variables that include determining the risk versus the
benefit of an action and deciding how best to
implement the action.
4. No individual shall be required to perform a rescue
action that might involve substantial personal risk.
All personnel selected to provide emergency
response shall be trained commensurate with the
hazards in the area and required controls. They shall
be briefed beforehand on the known or anticipated
hazards to which they shall be subjected.
5. The DOE guidelines for control of Emergency
Exposure are as follows:
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 7: Radiological Emergencies Instructor’s Notes
76
Table 7-1
Guidelines for Control of Emergency Exposures
Dose
limit1
(whole
body)
Activity performed Conditions
5 rem
10 rem
25 rem
All activities
Protecting major property.
Lifesaving or protection of large
populations.
Where lower dose
limit is not
practicable.
>25 rem Lifesaving or protection of large
populations.
Only on a voluntary
basis to personnel
fully aware of the
risks involved.
1The lens of the eye dose guideline is three times the listed values. The shallow
dose guideline to the skin of the whole body and the extremities is 10 times the
listed values. These doses are in addition to and accounted for separately from the
doses received under the limits in §§835.202 and 835.205.
6. Site administrative emergency dose guidelines for rescue
and recovery operations.
(Insert facility-specific information.)
EO4 State the site
administrative emergency
radiation dose guidelines.
III. SUMMARY
(Insert facility-specific information.)
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.) Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
77
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training
Prerequisite: Core Academics (Modules 1-7)
Terminal Objective:
Given a High or Very High Radiation area sign, define the area and identify the requirements for entry to
High Radiation Areas in accordance with the lesson material.
Enabling Objectives:
Section 52
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify his/her ability
to:
EO1 Define “High Radiation Area” and “Very High Radiation Area.”
EO2 Identify sources and locations that may produce High Radiation Areas and Very High Radiation
Areas at the site.
EO3 State the minimum requirements for entering, working in, and exiting High Radiation Areas.
EO4 State the administrative and physical controls for access to High Radiation Areas.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
78
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
This module discusses information regarding entry, work in,
and control of High Radiation Areas and the materials and
systems that can emit high radiation levels.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
1. The High Radiation Area lesson plan familiarizes the
participant with requirements for entry, work in, and
exit from High Radiation Areas.
2. Radiological Worker Modules 1-7 (core academic
material) are a prerequisite for this module. If
prerequisite requirements are met, this module may be
taught alone.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. High and Very High Radiation Area Definitions
1. High Radiation Area
A High Radiation Area is any area, accessible to
individuals, in which radiation levels could result in an
individual receiving a deep dose equivalent in excess of
0.1 rem (100 mrem), but less than or equal to 500 rad
in one hour at 30 centimeters from the radiation source
or from any surface that the radiation penetrates.
EO1 Define High Radiation
Area and Very High
Radiation Area.
30 cm is approximately = to
1 foot (11.81 inches)
2. Very High Radiation Area
A Very High Radiation Area is any area, accessible to
individuals, in which radiation levels could result in an
individual receiving an absorbed dose in excess of 500
rads in one hour at 1 meter from a radiation source or
from any surface that the radiation penetrates.
1m is slightly more than 1
yard (39.37 inches)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
79
B. Signs and Postings
1. High Radiation Area
High Radiation Areas will be posted with a standard
radiation symbol colored magenta (or black) on a
yellow background, reading:
“CAUTION”
or
“DANGER
HIGH RADIATION AREA”
Additionally the posting may state:
“Personnel Dosimeter, Supplemental Dosimeters,
and RWP Required for Entry”
Show sign.
2. Very High Radiation Area
Very High Radiation Areas will be posted with a
standard radiation symbol colored magenta (or black)
on a yellow background, reading:
“GRAVE DANGER,
VERY HIGH RADIATION AREA”
Show sign.
Additionally the posting may state:
“Special Controls Required for Entry”
Some HRAs and VHRAs only exist when machinery
is energized, such as radiation producing devices. For
example, a posting could be:
“High Radiation Area When Warning Light is On”
“Controlled Area When Warning Light is Off”
3. Radiation sources
(Insert facility-specific information on radiation sources
that can produce High/Very High Radiation Areas and
the location of each.)
EO2 Identify sources and
locations that may produce
High Radiation Areas and
Very High Radiation Areas.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
Section 53
80
Table 8-1
High and Very High Radiation Area
Definitions and sources (Objectives EO1 and EO2)
Sign Definition Sources
Insert
HRA sign
> 100 mrem in 1 hour
This is taken at 30 centimeters from the
source of radiation or any surface that the
radiation penetrates.
(Insert
facility-
specific
sources and
locations.)
Insert
VHRA
sign
> 500 rad in 1 hour
This is taken at 100 centimeters from the
source of radiation, or any surface that the
radiation penetrates.
(Insert
facility-
specific
sources and
locations.)
C. Entry, Work In, and Exit from High Radiation Areas
1. Minimum requirements for entering HRAs
EO3 State the minimum
requirements for entering
HRAs.
a. Appropriate training (e.g., Radiological Worker I
Training plus High Radiation Area Training or
Radiological Worker II Training).
b. Worker signature on the appropriate Radiological
Work Permit (RWP).
c. Personnel and supplemental dosimeter.
d. Survey meter(s) or dose rate indicating device
available at the work area (may be required for
certain jobs).
Workers need to receive
proper training prior to using
a dose rate indicating
device.
e. Access control.
f. A radiation survey prior to first entry.
g. Notification of operations personnel.
h. Additional requirements where dose rates are
greater than 1 rem in an hour. These should
include:
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
81
1) Determination of worker’s current dose.
2) Pre-job briefing, as applicable.
3) Review and determination by the RCO
regarding the level of RC technician
coverage.
4) Access Points secured by control devices. Required by 10 CFR 835.
i. Additional measures to ensure personnel are not
able to gain unauthorized or inadvertent access to
Very High Radiation Areas.
j. (Insert facility-specific information.)
2. Minimum requirements for working in HRAs
a. Don’t loiter.
b. Practice ALARA.
c. (Insert facility-specific information.)
EO3 State the minimum
requirements for working in
HRAs.
3. Minimum requirements for exiting HRAs
No controls shall be established in a Radiological Area
that would prevent rapid evacuation of personnel.
a. Sign out on RWP, as applicable.
b. (Insert facility-specific information.)
EO3 State the minimum
requirements for exiting
HRAs.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
82
D. Access Controls for High and Very High Radiation Areas
There are different controls that are used to prevent the
inadvertent entry or unauthorized access into Radiological
Areas. The following identifies administrative and physical
controls that are used for HRAs.
1. Administrative controls
The following are administrative controls that may be
used to control access to HRAs. These are used in
addition to physical controls.
a. Formal radiological reviews.
EO4 State the administrative
and physical controls for
access to HRAs.
b. RWPs.
c. Pre-job briefings.
d. Procedures.
e. Postings.
f. Administrative control levels (ACLs).
g. (Insert facility-specific information.)
2. Physical controls
One or more of the following features should be used
for each entrance or access point to an HRA and shall
be used for HRAs >1 rem in any one hour.
It should be noted again that no controls shall be
established in an HRA or VHRA that would prevent
rapid evacuation of personnel.
EO4 State the administrative
and physical controls for
access to HRAs.
Section 54
a. A control device that prevents entry or upon entry
causes the radiation level to be reduced below that
level defining an HRA.
b. An automatic device that prevents use or
operation of the radiation source.
c. A control device that energizes a visible or audible
alarm.
d. Entryways that are locked. Maintain positive
control over each entry.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 8: High/Very High Radiation Area Training Instructor’s Notes
83
e. Continuous direct or electronic surveillance.
f. (Insert facility-specific information.)
3. Consequences of violating radiological signs or
postings, or bypassing physical access controls:
a. Equipment damage.
b. Personnel injury.
c. Excessive and unplanned personnel exposure.
d. Disciplinary action.
E. Access to VHRAs
Due to the extremely high dose rates in a VHRA,
personnel access to these areas needs to be strictly
monitored and controlled. Additional training would be
required, as well as enhanced monitoring.
III. SUMMARY
(Insert facility-specific information.)
IV. EVALUATION
(Insert facility-specific information.)
Refer to RWT Program
Management Guide for
evaluation guidance.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 9: Radioactive Contamination Control Instructor’s Notes
84
Module 9: Radioactive Contamination Control
Prerequisites: Core Academics - (Modules 1-7)
Terminal Objective:
Given different types of radioactive contamination, identify the methods used to control the spread of
radioactive contamination in accordance with lesson material.
Enabling Objectives:
The participant will be able to select the correct response from a group of responses to verify his/her
ability to:
EO1 Define fixed, removable, and airborne contamination.
EO2 State sources of radioactive contamination.
EO3 State the appropriate response to a spill of radioactive material.
EO4 Identify methods used to control radioactive contamination.
EO5 Identify the proper use of protective clothing.
EO6 Identify the purpose and use of personnel contamination monitors.
EO7 Identify the normal methods used for decontamination.
EO8 Define “Contamination,” “High Contamination,” and “Airborne Radioactivity Areas.”
EO9 Identify the minimum requirements for entering, working in, and exiting Contamination, High
Contamination, and Airborne Radioactivity Areas.
Instructional Aids:
1. Student Guide
2. Transparencies
3. Activities (as applicable)
4. Self-check quizzes (as applicable)
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 9: Radioactive Contamination Control Instructor’s Notes
85
I. MODULE INTRODUCTION
A. Self Introduction
1. Name
2. Phone Number
3. Background
B. Module Overview
This module is designed to inform the worker about
radioactive contamination and discuss methods used to
control the spread of contamination.
C. Objectives Review Introduce objectives.
D. Introduction
Contamination control is one of the important aspects of
radiological protection. Using proper contamination control
practices helps to ensure a safe working environment. It is
important for all employees to recognize potential sources
of contamination and to use appropriate contamination
control methods.
II. MODULE OUTLINE
A. Comparison of Ionizing Radiation and Radioactive
Contamination
1. Ionizing radiation
Energy (particles or rays) emitted from radioactive
atoms or generated from machines such as X-ray
machines that can cause ionization (e.g., gamma rays,
X rays, beta particles, and other particles capable of
ionizing atoms).
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Section 55
Module 9: Radioactive Contamination Control Instructor’s Notes
86
2. Radioactive contamination
Radioactive material is material that contains
radioactive atoms. When radioactive material is
properly contained, it still emits radiation and may be an
external dose hazard, but it is not a contamination
hazard. When radioactive material escapes its
container, it is then referred to as radioactive
contamination.
3. Radiation is energy; contamination is a material.
B. Types of Contamination
Radioactive contamination can be fixed, removable, or
airborne.
EO1 Define fixed,
removable, and airborne
contamination.
1. Fixed contamination is contamination that cannot be
easily removed from surfaces.
a. It cannot be removed by casual contact.
b. It may be released when the surface is disturbed
(buffing, grinding, using volatile liquids for cleaning,
etc.).
c. Over time it may “weep,” leach, or otherwise
become loose or removable.
2. Removable contamination is contamination that can
easily be removed from surfaces. Any object that
comes in contact with it may become contaminated.
a. It may be transferred by casual contact, wiping,
brushing, or washing.
b. Air movement across removable contamination
could cause the contamination to become airborne.
3. Airborne contamination is contamination suspended in
air.
DOE-HDBK-1130-98
Module 9: Radioactive Contamination Control Instructor’s Notes
87
Table 9-1
Types of Radioactive Contamination
Types Definitions (Objective EO1)
Fixed
Contamination
Cannot be removed by casual contact.
It may be released when the surface is disturbed
(buffing, grinding, using volatile liquids for cleaning,
etc.).
Over time, may become loose or removable.
Removable
Contamination
May be transferred by casual contact.
Any object that makes contact with it may in turn
become contaminated.
Air movement across removable contamination may
cause the contamination to become airborne.
Airborne
Contamination
Airborne contamination is contamination suspended
in the air.
C. Radioactive Contamination
Radiological work is required in areas and in systems that
are contaminated by design (e.g., maintenance of valves in
radioactive fluid systems).
EO2 State sources of
radioactive contamination.
Regardless of the precautions taken, radioactive material
will sometimes contaminate objects, areas, and people.
1. Sources
The following are some sources of radioactive
contamination.
a. Leaks or breaks in radioactive fluid systems.
b. Leaks or breaks in air-handling systems for
radioactive areas.
c. Airborne contamination depositing on surfaces.
d. Leaks or tears in radioactive material containers
such as barrels, plastic bags or boxes.
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e. Another common cause of contamination is sloppy
work practices. These may lead to contamination
of tools, equipment, and workers. Examples
include:
1) Opening radioactive systems without proper
controls.
2) Poor housekeeping in contaminated areas.
3) Excessive motion or movement in areas of
higher contamination.
4) Improper usage of step-off pads and change
areas.
5) Violation of contamination control ropes and
boundaries.
f. Hot particles: Small, sometimes microscopic
pieces of highly radioactive material may escape
containment. These pieces are known as “hot
particles.”
1) Hot particles may be present when
contaminated systems leak or are opened.
These particles may also be present when
machining, cutting, or grinding is performed on
highly radioactive materials.
Section 56
2) Hot particles can cause a high, localized
radiation dose in a short period of time if they
remain in contact with skin.
2. Indicators of possible contamination:
Radiological workers should be aware of potential
radioactive contamination problems. Potential
contamination problems should be reported to the
Radiological Controls Organization. Examples include:
a. Leaks, spills, or standing water that is possibly
from a radioactive fluid system.
b. Damaged or leaking radioactive material
containers.
c. Open radioactive systems with no observable
controls.
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d. Dust/dirt accumulations in radioactive
contamination areas.
e. Torn or damaged tents and glove bags or
containments on radioactive systems.
3. Radiological worker response to a spill of radioactive
material
Each of the examples listed above may be a spill of
radioactive material. Here is the minimum response to
a spill of radioactive material:
EO3 State the appropriate
response to a spill of
radioactive material.
a. Stop or secure the operation causing the spill, if
qualified.
b. Warn others in the area.
c. Isolate the area.
d. Minimize exposure to radiation and contamination.
e. Secure unfiltered ventilation.
f. Notify Radiological Control personnel.
D. Contamination Control Methods
Every radiological worker should perform work in such a
manner as to minimize the generation of radioactive
contamination and confine the spread of radioactive
contamination to the smallest area possible. By controlling
contamination, the worker minimizes the potential for
internal exposure, and personnel contamination can be
minimized. Examples of methods used to control the
spread of radioactive contamination follow:
1. Prevention
A sound maintenance program can prevent many
radioactive material releases.
EO4 Identify the methods
used to control radioactive
contamination.
a. Establish a solid routine maintenance program for
operating systems to minimize failures and leaks
that lead to contamination.
b. Repair leaks as soon as identified to prevent a
more serious problem.
c. Establish adequate work controls before starting
jobs.
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d. During pre-job briefings, discuss measures that will
help reduce or prevent contamination spread. The
agreed upon measures should be implemented by
workers at the job site.
e. Change protective gear (e.g., gloves) as necessary
(typically as directed by Radiological Control
personnel) to prevent cross-contamination.
f. Stage areas to prevent contamination spread from
work activities.
1) Cover work area to minimize cleanup
afterward.
2) Cover piping/equipment below a work area to
prevent dripping contamination onto cleaner
areas.
3) Cap contaminated pipes or systems when not
in use.
g. Prepare tools and equipment to prevent
contamination.
1) Bag or sleeve hoses and lines to prevent
contamination.
2) Minimize the equipment and tools taken into
and out of contamination areas.
3) Cover/tape tools or equipment used during the
job to minimize decontamination after the job
(i.e., taping up a screwdriver before use).
h. Use good housekeeping practices; clean up during
and after jobs.
“Good Housekeeping” is a prime factor in an
effective contamination control program. Each
radiological worker should keep his/her work area
neat and clean to control the spread of
contamination.
Section 57
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i. Use standard contamination control procedures as
established by the Radiological Control
Organization.
1) Do not violate contamination area ropes or
barricades.
2) Frisk materials out of contamination areas as
directed by site procedures.
3) Use change areas and step-off pads as
directed.
4) Do not pass items out of contamination areas
without following site procedures.
5) Be alert for potential violations to
contamination control procedures.
j. Ensure ventilation systems are operating as
designed (i.e., no unauthorized modifications).
k. Radiological workers should always ensure that
the proper entry, exit, and equipment control
procedures are used to avoid the spread of
contamination. Comply with procedures!!
2. Engineering controls
a. Ventilation
EO4 Identify methods used
to control radioactive
contamination.
1) Systems and temporary spot ventilation (e.g.,
temporary enclosures with HEPA filters) are
designed to maintain airflow from areas of
least contamination to areas of most
contamination (e.g., clean to contaminated to
highly contaminated areas).
2) A slight negative pressure is maintained on
buildings/rooms/enclosures where potential
contamination exists.
3) High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters
are used to remove radioactive particles from
the air.
HEPA - High Efficiency
Particulate Air filter.
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b. Containment
Permanent and temporary containments are used
for contamination control. Examples include
vessels, pipes, cells, glovebags, gloveboxes, tents,
huts, and plastic coverings.
3. Personal Protective Measures
Sometimes engineering controls cannot eliminate
contamination. Personnel protective measures, such as
protective clothing and respiratory equipment, will be
used at this point.
a. Protective clothing EO5 Identify the proper use
of protective clothing.
1) Protective clothing is required for entering
areas containing contamination and airborne
radioactivity levels above specified limits to
prevent personnel contamination.
2) The amount and type of protective clothing
required is dependent on work area
radiological conditions and nature of the job.
3) Personal effects such as watches, rings,
jewelry, etc., should not be worn.
4) Full protective clothing generally consists of:
a) Coveralls.
b) Cotton liners.
c) Rubber gloves.
d) Shoe covers.
e) Rubber overshoes.
f) Hood.
NOTE: Cotton glove liners may be worn inside
rubber gloves for comfort, but should not be worn
alone or considered as a layer of protection against
contamination.
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5) Proper use of protective clothing
a) Inspect protective clothing for rips, tears,
or holes prior to use. If you find damaged
protective clothing, discard properly.
b) Supplemental and multiple dosimeters
should be worn as prescribed by the
Radiological Control Organization.
c) After donning protective clothing, proceed
directly from the dress-out area to the
work area.
d) Avoid getting coveralls wet. Wet
coveralls provide a means for
contamination to reach the skin/clothing.
e) Contact Radiological Control personnel if
clothing becomes ripped, wet, or
otherwise compromised.
b. Respiratory protection equipment
This is used to prevent the inhalation of radioactive
materials. This training course DOES NOT qualify