DOE-STD-1153-2002, A Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota
Functional areas: dose evaluation methods, dose limits
This technical standard provides methods, models, and guidance within a graded approach that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its contractors may use to evaluate doses of ionizing radiation to populations of aquatic animals, terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals from DOE activities for the purpose of demonstrating protection relative to Dose Rate Guidelines.
Superseded By:
Version history and related documents
Superseded by
A newer version replaces this document.
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Text extracted from the attached file. Refer to the original document for the authoritative version.
Section 1
TS
NOT MEASUREMENT
SENSITIVE
DOE-STD-1153-2002
July 2002
DOE STANDARD
A GRADED APPROACH FOR
EVALUATING RADIATION DOSES TO
AQUATIC AND TERRESTRIAL BIOTA
U.S. Department of Energy AREA ENVR
Washington, D.C. 20585
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A. Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
This document has been reproduced 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.
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Foreword
1. Department of Energy (DOE) activities may expose populations of plants and animals to
radioactive materials in environmental media, or to radioactive materials released in waste
streams. This DOE voluntary consensus technical standard provides methods, models, and
guidance within a graded approach that DOE personnel and contractors may use to
characterize radiation doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota that are exposed to radioactive
materials.
2. The graded approach to biota dose evaluation can be used to address requirements for
radiological protection of the environment contained in DOE Orders. It can also be used to
support radiological protection of the environment program elements within Environmental
Management Systems (EMS) at DOE sites.
3. These methods (and the Biota Concentration Guides contained in them) are not intended to
be used as design criteria, indicators of the severity of accidental releases of radioactive
materials, or guides for mitigating the consequences of accidental releases. Furthermore,
this technical standard does not apply to the irradiation of biota for experimental purposes,
nor to research or experimental studies.
4. This technical standard and the RAD-BCG Calculator (an electronic calculational tool
provided with the technical standard) can be downloaded from the Department’s Biota Dose
Assessment Committee (BDAC) web site (http://homer.ornl.gov/oepa/public/bdac).
5. The graded approach to biota dose evaluation and associated guidance contained in this
technical standard is also intended for use with the RESRAD-BIOTA code. The RESRAD
BIOTA dose evaluation code was designed to be consistent with the graded approach and
the BCGs contained herein.
6. DOE technical standards, such as this standard, do not establish requirements. However,
all or part of the provisions in a DOE standard can become requirements under the
following circumstances:
(a) they are explicitly stated to be requirements in a DOE requirements document; or
(b) the organization makes a commitment to meet a standard in a contract or in an
implementation plan or program plan required by a DOE requirements document.
Throughout this standard, the word “shall” is used to denote actions which must be
performed if the objectives of this standard are to be met. If the provisions in this standard
are made requirements through one of the two ways discussed above, then the “shall”
statements would become requirements. However, “should” statements would not
automatically be converted to “shall” statements if provisions in this standard become
requirements, as this action would violate the consensus process used to approve this
standard.
iii
http://homer.ornl.gov/oepa/public/bdac
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Section 2
7. This technical standard has undergone extensive review throughout its development: (1) it
was prepared and reviewed by the Department's Biota Dose Assessment Committee
(BDAC), an approved DOE Technical Standards Program topical committee; (2) it has
undergone a formal DOE review and comment resolution process as required by the
Department's Technical Standards Program; (3) it was made available to other federal
agencies for their review and comment through the Interagency Steering Committee on
Radiation Standards (ISCORS); (4) it was reviewed by an independent external technical
expert; and (5) five papers on the graded approach methodology and associated guidance
contained in this technical standard have undergone external peer review for publication in
scientific journals.
8. Comments in the form of recommendations, pertinent data, and lessons learned from
implementation of DOE’s graded approach to biota dose evaluation that may improve future
versions of this technical standard, the RAD-BCG Calculator, or the RESRAD-BIOTA code,
are welcome and should be sent to:
Mr. Stephen Domotor
U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Environment, Safety and Health
Air, Water, and Radiation Division (EH-412)
1000 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, DC 20585-0119
Stephen.Domotor@eh.doe.gov
iv
mailto:Stephen.Domotor@eh.doe.gov
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table of Contents
SECTION PAGE
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Acknowledgments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xvii
Scope, Purpose and Organization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxi
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxiii
Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxxix
Acronyms and Abbreviations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xlvii
MODULE 1
1 INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-1
1.1 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-1
1.2 Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-2
1.2.1 Increasing Interest and Need for Biota Dose Evaluation Methods . . . M1-2
1.2.2 Basis for Biota Dose Limits Applied in this Technical Standard . . . . . M1-3
1.2.2.1 Aquatic Organisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-4
1.2.2.2 Terrestrial Organisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-5
1.2.2.3 Additional Summaries and Reviews of Radiation Effects
Data on Biota Confirming NCRP and IAEA Findings . . . . . . . M1-6
1.2.2.4 Application of Biota Dose Limits as “Dose Rate Guidelines”
for Evaluating Doses to Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-7
1.2.3 Protection of Populations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-7
2 OVERVIEW OF THE DOE GRADED APPROACH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-9
2.1 Key Features of the Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-10
Section 3
2.2 Key Points Regarding Methods Derivation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-11
2.3 Relationship of the Graded Approach to Ecological Risk Assessment . . . . . M1-16
3 APPLICATION CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-17
3.1 Evaluating Doses to Individual Organisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-20
3.1.1 Threatened and Endangered Species . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-21
3.1.2 Commercially and Culturally Valued Species . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-21
3.2 Evaluating Doses to Aquatic Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-21
3.3 Experimental Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-22
3.4 Hazardous Chemicals and Industrial Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-22
3.5 Frequency of Conducting Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-22
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
4 STEP-BY-STEP IMPLEMENTATION OF THE GRADED APPROACH . . . . . . . . . . M1-23
4.1 Parameter Values that can be Modified in the Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . M1-26
4.2 Use of the RAD-BCG Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-27
4.3 The Biota Dose Assessment Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-28
5 DATA ASSEMBLY PHASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-31
5.1 Step 1: Consider the Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure . . . . . . M1-31
5.2 Step 2: Define Your Area of Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-31
5.3 Step 3: Assemble and Organize Data on Radionuclide Concentrations
in Environmental Media . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-32
5.3.1 Aquatic System Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-32
5.3.2 Terrestrial System Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-32
6 GENERAL SCREENING PHASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-33
6.1 Step 1: Compare Data on Radionuclide Concentrations in
Environmental Media with Generic BCGs Contained in Look-up
Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-33
6.1.1 Aquatic System Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-35
6.1.2 Dealing with High Background Levels of Naturally Occurring
Radionuclides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-36
7 ANALYSIS PHASE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-43
7.1 Analysis Phase - Site-Specific Screening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-43
7.1.1 Step 1: Assess the Representativeness of Your Input Data on
Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media
and the Delineation of Your Evaluation Area . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-44
7.1.1.1 Consider Using Mean Radionuclide Concentrations . . . . . . M1-44
7.1.1.2 Consider Refining the Evaluation Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-44
7.1.1.3 Consider Obtaining Additional Radionuclide
Concentration Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-44
7.1.2 Step 2: Re-Run the Screening Evaluation Using Revised
Section 4
Radionuclide Concentration Data and/or Evaluation
Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-44
7.1.3 Step 3: Assess the Representativeness of Default Parameters
and Assumptions Used in Deriving the Generic BCGs;
Select Site-Specific Parameters and Generate Site
Specific BCGs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-45
7.1.3.1 Identify Radionuclide-Specific Limiting Medium and
Organism Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-45
7.1.3.2 Review and Select Site-Specific Lumped Parameters . . . . M1-45
7.1.3.3 Review and Select Site-Representative Kds . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-46
7.1.4 Step 4: Re-Run the Screening Evaluation and Compare Data
on Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media
with Newly-Generated Site-Specific BCGs . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-47
7.2 Analysis Phase - Site-Specific Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-47
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
7.2.1 Step 5: Assess the Representativeness of Default Parameters
and Assumptions Employed in Kinetic/Allometric
Models; Select Site-Specific Parameters and Generate
Site-Specific BCGs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-48
7.2.1.1 Identify Radionuclide-Specific Limiting Medium and
Organism Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-48
7.2.1.2 Consider Correction Factor for Exposure Area or
Receptor Residence Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-48
7.2.1.3 Riparian and Terrestrial Animals: Review and Select
Parameters Representative of Site-Specific Conditions
and Receptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-50
7.2.1.4 Riparian and Terrestrial Animals: Review and Select
Food Source Parameter Values Representative of Site-
Specific Receptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-50
7.2.2 Step 6: Re-Run the RAD-BCG Calculator and Compare Data
on Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media
with Newly Generated Site-Specific BCGs . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-50
7.3 Analysis Phase - Conducting a Site-Specific Biota Dose Assessment . . . . . M1-51
7.3.1 Determine if Additional Analysis is Warranted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-51
7.3.2 An Important Note Concerning the Use of Available Biota Tissue
Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-52
7.3.3 Step 1: Assemble a Biota Dose Assessment Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-52
7.3.4 Step 2: Review Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-53
7.3.5 Step 3: Review Assumptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-53
7.3.6 Recommended Approaches to Designing and Conducting the
Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-54
7.3.7 Designing and Conducting the Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-55
8 DOCUMENTING YOUR BIOTA DOSE EVALUATION RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-69
9 EXAMPLE APPLICATIONS OF THE GRADED APPROACH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-71
9.1 Generic Example of an Aquatic System Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-71
MODULE 2
1 THE GRADED APPROACH, ECOLOGICAL RISK ASSESSMENT, AND
GUIDANCE ON THEIR IMPLEMENTATION IN EVALUATING RADIATION
DOSES TO BIOTA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-1
Section 5
1.1 Purpose of this Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-1
1.2 Relationship of the Graded Approach and the Ecological Risk
Assessment Framework . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-1
1.3 Principal and Alternative Uses of the Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-2
1.4 Technical Issues to be Considered when Evaluating Radiation as a
Stressor to the Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-3
1.4.1 Problem Formulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-3
1.4.1.1 Scope of the Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-3
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
1.4.1.2 Stressor Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-4
1.4.1.3 Assessment Endpoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-5
1.4.1.4 Conceptual Model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-6
1.4.1.5 Analysis Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-6
1.4.1.6 Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-7
1.5 Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-7
1.5.1 Exposure Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-7
1.5.2 Effects Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-9
1.6 Risk Characterization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-10
2 GUIDANCE ON SOURCES, RECEPTORS, AND ROUTES OF EXPOSURE . . . . M2-13
2.1 General Considerations for Identifying Sources, Receptors, and
Exposure Pathways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-13
2.1.1 Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-14
2.1.2 Receptors and Routes of Exposure Considered in the
Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-15
2.1.3 Examples of Receptors That Could Serve as Good Indicators of
Radiological Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-15
2.2 Rationale for the Active Air Pathway as a Minor Source of Exposure . . . . . . M2-20
2.2.1 Behavior of Radionuclides Discharged to the Atmosphere . . . . . . . . M2-20
2.2.2 Exposure Pathways Resulting from Atmospheric Releases . . . . . . . M2-21
2.2.3 Compliance with Human Radiation Dose Limits at DOE Sites
Relative to Biota Dose Limits: A Perspective . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-21
2.2.4 Derivation of Biota Concentration Guides for Active Air
Releases. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-22
2.2.5 Summary and Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-23
2.3 Aquatic Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-23
2.4 Direct Measurement of Radiation Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-23
2.4.1 Considerations for Evaluating Doses to Biota around
Accelerators or other Sources of Direct Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-24
Section 6
3 GUIDANCE ON SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL AVERAGING REGARDING
APPLICATION OF BIOTA DOSE LIMITS AND MEAN RADIONUCLIDE
CONCENTRATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-27
3.1 Use of Time Averaging in Applying Dose Limits for Aquatic and Terrestrial
Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-27
3.1.1 Guidance on Time Averaging in Applying Daily Dose Limits . . . . . . M2-27
3.1.2 Rationale for Guidance on Time Averaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-28
3.2 Guidance on Spatial Variability in Applying Dose Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-29
3.3 Guidance on Estimating Mean Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-31
3.3.1 Adjustments to Account for Spatial and Temporal Distributions
of Radionuclides in the Environment When Estimating Mean
Concentrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-31
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
4 GUIDANCE FOR DEFINING THE EVALUATION AREA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-35
4.1 General Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-35
4.2 Step-by-Step Guidance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-35
5 GUIDANCE ON SOIL SAMPLING RELATIVE TO PLANT ROOTING DEPTHS . . . M2-39
5.1 Overview of the Problem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-39
5.2 Plant Rooting Depths . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-40
5.3 Consider the Need for Site-Specific Plant Uptake Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-41
5.4 Survey Design Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-41
6 GUIDANCE ON BIOTA SAMPLING TO SUPPORT IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE GRADED APPROACH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-45
6.1 An Important Note about Biota Sampling and Temporal Variation . . . . . . . . M2-45
6.2 General Planning Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-46
6.2.1 Use of Data Quality Objectives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-48
6.2.2 Selection of Receptor Species Sampled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-48
6.2.3 Variability of Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-49
6.2.4 Representative Population Exposures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-50
6.2.5 Dosimetry Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-50
6.2.5.1 Aquatic and Terrestrial Vertebrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-50
6.2.5.2 Terrestrial Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-52
6.2.5.3 Analytical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-52
6.2.5.4 Other Data Needs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-52
6.3 Sampling Design and Statistical Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-53
6.3.1 Sampling Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-53
6.3.1.1 Definition of Population . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-53
Section 7
6.3.1.2 Sampling Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-54
6.3.1.3 Types of Sampling Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-54
6.3.1.4 Sampling Bias . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-55
6.3.1.5 Background/Reference Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-55
6.3.2 Statistical Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-56
6.3.2.1 Determination of Underlying Data Distribution . . . . . . . . . . M2-56
6.3.2.2 Calculation of Summary Statistics and Confidence
Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-57
6.3.2.3 Determination of Minimum Sampling Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-59
6.3.3 Uncontrollable Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-60
6.4 Biota Sampling Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-60
6.4.1 Aquatic Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-61
6.4.1.1 Fish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-61
6.4.1.2 Benthic Invertebrates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-62
6.4.1.3 Amphibians and Reptiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-63
6.4.2 Terrestrial Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-63
6.4.2.1 Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-64
6.4.2.2 Mammals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-64
6.4.2.3 Birds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-65
6.4.2.4 Earthworms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-67
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
6.4.2.5 Terrestrial Arthropods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-68
6.4.3 Additional Sampling Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-68
6.4.3.1 Quality Assurance/Quality Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-68
6.4.3.2 Sample Handling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-68
6.4.3.3 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-69
6.4.3.4 Euthanasia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-70
6.4.3.5 Health and Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-70
7 GUIDANCE ON RADIATION WEIGHTING FACTOR
FOR ALPHA PARTICLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-75
7.1 Statement of Issue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-75
7.2 Previous Assumptions About Radiation Weighting Factor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-75
7.3 Radiation Effects of Concern in Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-76
7.4 Data on Deterministic RBEs for High-LET Radiations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-76
7.5 Recommendations on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles . . . . . M2-77
7.6 Guidance on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-78
Section 8
8 GUIDANCE ON THE APPLICABILITY OF THE GRADED APPROACH FOR
EVALUATING DOSE TO INDIVIDUAL ORGANISMS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-79
8.1 Considerations on the Meaning of "Individual" Organism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-79
8.2 Applicability of Methods and Models Contained in the Graded Approach
to Evaluations of Individual Organisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-79
8.3 Applicability of Biota Dose Limits to Protection of Individual Organisms . . . . M2-80
8.4 Use of the DOE Graded Approach for Evaluating Dose to Individual
Organisms: Application Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-80
8.5 Consideration of Deterministic vs. Stochastic Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-81
MODULE 3
1 INTRODUCTION AND BASIS FOR APPROACH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-1
1.1 Pathways, Media Types, and Organism Types Addressed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-1
1.2 Selection of Target Radionuclides . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-2
1.3 Overview of the Technical Approach for Deriving the BCGs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-2
1.4 Selection of the Most Limiting BCGs for Use in General Screening . . . . . . . . M3-3
2 DOSE COEFFICIENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-5
2.1 External Dose Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-5
2.1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-5
2.1.2 Approach to Calculating External Dose Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-5
2.1.2.1 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Aquatic
Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-6
2.1.2.2 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for
Terrestrial Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-8
2.1.3 Discussion of Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-8
2.2 Internal Dose Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-16
2.2.1 Approach to Calculating Internal Dose Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-16
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
3 EQUATIONS AND MODELS FOR CALCULATING DOSE TO BIOTA AND
DERIVING BCGS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-19
3.1 An Important Note on Estimating Internal Tissue Concentrations for
Use in Dose Equations: The Lumped Parameter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-19
3.2 Equations and Models for Aquatic Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-22
3.2.1 Aquatic Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-22
3.2.2 Riparian Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-23
3.2.3 Important Considerations When Implementing Equations and
Models in an Aquatic System Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-25
3.3 Equations and Models for Terrestrial Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-26
3.3.1 Terrestrial Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-26
3.3.2 Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-27
Section 9
3.4 Alternatives to Lumped Parameters for Riparian and Terrestrial
Animals: The Kinetic/Allometric Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-29
3.4.1 A Scaling Approach to Predicting Tissue Concentrations . . . . . . . . M3-30
3.4.1.1 Estimating Intake (Soil Pathway) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-31
3.4.1.2 Estimating the Total Loss Rate from the Organism . . . . . . . M3-33
3.4.1.3 Calculating the Fractional Buildup to Equilibrium Tissue
Concentrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-34
3.4.1.4 Calculating Species-Independent Tissue Concentrations
from Soil Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-34
3.4.1.5 Calculating Limiting Soil Concentrations (BCGs) Using
the Kinetic/Allometric Method: An Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-35
3.4.2 Application of the Kinetic/Allometric Method in the Derivation of
BCGs for Riparian Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-36
3.4.3 Application of the Kinetic/Allometric Method in the Derivation of
BCGs for Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-38
3.5 Selection of Lumped Parameters for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals . . . . . M3-39
4 DEFAULT PARAMETERS AND THEIR SOURCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-47
4.1 Bioaccumulation Factors (Bivs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-47
4.2 Distribution Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-51
4.3 Coefficients Used in the Kinetic/Allometric Method . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-53
xi
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Figures
FIGURE PAGE
1 Organization and Contents of the DOE Technical Standard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xxii
MODULE 1
1.1 Approximate Acute Lethal Dose Ranges for Various Taxonomic Groups . . . . . . . . M1-8
2.1 Overview of the DOE Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses
to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-9
2.2 Exposure Pathways for Aquatic Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-13
2.3 Exposure Pathways for Riparian Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-13
2.4 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-14
2.5 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-15
4.1 Flowchart Illustrating Step-by-Step Guidance for Progressing
Through the DOE Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-23
7.1 Problem Formulation, Phase 1 of Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-56
7.2 Analysis, Phase 2 of Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-57
7.3 Risk Characterization, Phase 3 of Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-58
MODULE 2
1.1 Problem Formulation, Phase 1 of Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-4
1.2 Analysis, Phase 2 of Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-8
1.3 Risk Characterization, Phase 3 of Dose Assessment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-11
Section 10
2.1 Exposure Pathways for Aquatic Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-18
2.2 Exposure Pathways for Riparian Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-18
2.3 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-19
2.4 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-20
4.1 Hypothetical Maps of Contaminated Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-37
xii
DOE-STD-1153-2002
4.2 Hypothetical Maps of Intersecting Contaminated Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-38
5.1 Average Rooting Depth by Plant Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-40
6.1 Flow Diagram for Collecting Biological Samples to Provide Data for
Dosimetric Assessments of Non-Human Receptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-47
MODULE 3
1.1 Selection of Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) for Use in Aquatic and
Terrestrial System Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-4
3.1 Process for Selecting Default Biv/Lumped Parameter Values for Use in the
General Screening Phase of the Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-21
xiii
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Tables
TABLE PAGE
MODULE 1
2.1 Summary of the DOE’s Three-Step Process for Evaluating Radiation
Doses to Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-10
2.2 Assumptions Regarding Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure
Applied in the General Screening Phase of the Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-12
2.3 General Dose Equation and Approach Used to Derive BCGs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-15
3.1 Applications Matrix Summarizing Intended and Potential Uses
of the DOE Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-17
4.1 Summary of Parameter Values that Can be Modified Corresponding to Each
Phase of the Graded Approach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-26
4.2 Contents of the RAD-BCG Calculator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-29
6.1 Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) for Water and Sediment (in SI Units)
for Use in Aquatic System Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-37
6.2 Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) for Water and Sediment (in Special
Units) for Use in Aquatic System Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-38
6.3 Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) for Water and Soil (in SI Units) for Use
in Terrestrial System Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-39
6.4 Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) for Water and Soil (in Special Units)
for Use in Terrestrial System Evaluations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-40
6.5 Part 1 of Dose Factors and Common Parameters Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-41
7.1 Aquatic Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-59
7.2 Part 1 of the Riparian Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . M1-60
7.3 Terrestrial Plant Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-61
Section 11
7.4 Part 1 of the Terrestrial Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . M1-62
7.5 Part 2 of the Riparian Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . M1-63
7.6 Part 3 of the Riparian Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . M1-64
xiv
DOE-STD-1153-2002
7.7 Part 2 of the Terrestrial Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . M1-65
7.8 Part 3 of the Terrestrial Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet . . . . . . . M1-66
7.9 Part 2 of Dose Factors and Common Parameters Spreadsheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M1-67
MODULE 2
2.1 General Considerations for Defining Sources, Receptors, and Rates of
Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-13
2.2 Examples of Representative Organisms That Could Serve as Indicators of
Radiological Impact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-16
5.1 Average and Ranges of Rooting Depths by Plant Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-41
6.1 Comparison of Common Arthropod Sampling Techniques . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M2-71
MODULE 3
2.1 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Aquatic Animals
to Contaminated Sediments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-11
2.2 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Aquatic Animals
to Contaminated Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-13
2.3 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Terrestrial Biota
to Contaminated Soil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-15
2.4 Screening-Level Internal Dose Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-18
3.1 Parameters Used in Kinetic/Allometric Method Uncertainty Analysis for
Riparian and Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-41
3.2A A Comparison of Lumped Parameter Values Determined by Uncertainty
Analysis on the Kinetic/Allometric Method, Product Approach, and Empirical
Data (Literature Values): Riparian Animal to Sediment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-43
3.2B A Comparison of Lumped Parameter Values Determined by Uncertainty
Analysis on the Kinetic/Allometric Method, Product Approach, and Empirical
Data (Literature Values): Riparian Animal to Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-44
3.2C A Comparison of Lumped Parameter Values Determined by Uncertainty
Analysis on the Kinetic/Allometric Method, Product Approach, and Empirical
Data (Literature Values): Terrestrial Animal to Soil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-45
xv
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3.2D A Comparison of Lumped Parameter Values Determined by Uncertainty
Analysis on the Kinetic/Allometric Method, Product Approach, and Empirical
Data (Literature Values): Terrestrial Animal to Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-46
4.1 Default Bioaccumulation Factors (Bivs) for Aquatic Species . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-48
4.2 Default Bioaccumulation Factors (Bivs) for Terrestrial Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-49
Section 12
4.3 Most Probable Kd Values for Use in Calculating BCGs for Sediment or Water
for an Aquatic System Evaluation in the Absence of Co-Located Water and
Sediment Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-52
4.4 Source of Default f1 Values Used for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . M3-53
4.5 Source of Data Used in Estimating Biological Half-Times for Riparian and
Terrestrial Animals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-54
4.6 Factors Used in Assessing the Relative Contribution to Internal Dose from
Animal Inhalation versus Ingestion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-55
4.7 Allometric Equations and Parameter Values Used in Estimating Intake of
Riparian Animal Organisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-56
4.8 Allometric Equations and Parameter Values Used in Estimating Intake of
Terrestrial Animal Organisms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M3-57
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Acknowledgments
This voluntary consensus technical standard was prepared by the Department's Air, Water and
Radiation Division (EH-412) and the Core Team of the Biota Dose Assessment Committee
(BDAC). The BDAC is a technical standards topical committee organized under the
Department of Energy Technical Standards Program. The purpose of the BDAC is (a) to assist,
consistent with DOE needs, in developing and promoting technical standards and associated
guidance for DOE-wide applications in assessing radiation dose to biota, (b) to serve as a major
forum within DOE for obtaining technical assistance, discussing technical issues, and sharing
lessons learned regarding biota dose standards and assessment methods, and (c) to serve as
a technical resource and advisory group for DOE program and field elements in the design and
review of site-specific biota dose assessments. The committee has broad representation from
DOE Offices, national laboratories, universities, and the private sector. The BDAC charter can
be obtained from the BDAC web site at: http://homer.ornl.gov/oepa/public/bdac.
A guiding principle for the BDAC is that both "developers" and "users" be part of the methods
development process. Consistent with the BDAC’s values and guiding principles documented
in the BDAC charter, this technical standard was prepared using an interdisciplinary team
approach. Each member of the Core Team brought with them specific expertise in health
physics, ecology, radioecology, environmental monitoring, or risk assessment. The collective
knowledge gained through this teaming orientation proved to be essential for developing the
methods and implementation guidance presented in this technical standard.
The Core Team consists of the following members: Mr. Ernest Antonio, Pacific Northwest
National Laboratory (PNNL); Dr. Gordon Bilyard, PNNL; Mr. Stephen Domotor, DOE-EH-412;
Dr. Gary Friday, Westinghouse Savannah River Company (WSRC); Dr. Kathryn Higley, Oregon
State University; Mr. Daniel Jones, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL); Dr. David Kocher,
SENES-Oak Ridge; Dr. Randall Morris, Environmental Science and Research Foundation, and
TREC, Inc.; Dr. Bradley Sample, CH2MHill; and Ms. Patricia Scofield, ORNL.
Section 13
Members of the Core Team, and other members of the BDAC, served as lead developers or
contributors for several key areas of the technical standard. These individuals, and their
specific contributions, are highlighted below. We are grateful to them for their contributions.
Technical Standard Development
BDAC Chairperson: Mr. Stephen Domotor (EH-412); technical standard preparation,
integration, and coordination: Mr. Stephen Domotor (EH-412), with support from Ms. Audrey
Lamanna, Ms. Melissa Hatcher, Mr. Jamie McDonald, and Mr. Clyde Lichtenwalner (Energetics,
Inc.); screening methodology concepts and development: Dr. Kathryn Higley (Oregon State
University) and Dr. David Kocher (SENES-Oak Ridge); kinetic/allometric modeling concepts
and development, and RAD-BCG Calculator design: Dr. Kathryn Higley (Oregon State
University).
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Specific Contributions
Conceptual framework and application of the graded approach: Mr. Stephen Domotor (EH-412),
with support from the BDAC Core Team; primer on ecological risk assessment concepts and
issues concerning the evaluation of radiation as a stressor: Mr. Daniel Jones (ORNL);
interpretation and application of biota dose limits: Dr. David Kocher (SENES-Oak Ridge);
sources, receptors, and routes of exposure: Dr. Gordon Bilyard (PNNL); defining the area of
evaluation: Dr. Randall Morris (Environmental Science and Research Foundation, and TREC,
Inc.); dealing with high background levels of naturally-occurring radionuclides: Dr. Randall
Morris (Environmental Science and Research Foundation, and TREC, Inc.) and Mr. Daniel
Jones (ORNL); soil sampling guidance: Dr. Gordon Bilyard (PNNL) and Mr. Daniel Jones
(ORNL); biota sampling guidance: Mr. Daniel Jones (ORNL) and Dr. Bradley Sample
(CH2MHill); guidance on radiation weighting factor for alpha particles: Dr. David Kocher
(SENES-Oak Ridge); evaluating dose to individual organisms: Dr. David Kocher (SENES-Oak
Ridge); derivation of dose coefficients, dose equations and models, and BCGs: Dr. Kathryn
Higley (Oregon State University), Dr. David Kocher (SENES-Oak Ridge), Mr. Ernest Antonio
(PNNL), and Mr. Stephen Domotor (EH-412); preparation of example applications of the graded
approach: Mr. Ernest Antonio (PNNL) and Ms. Patricia Scofield (ORNL).
We are grateful to Dr. Gary Friday of the Westinghouse Savannah River Corporation (WSRC)
for his valuable comments and recommendations concerning ecological risk issues and
technical considerations.
We are grateful to Dr. Ward Whicker (Colorado State University) for his independent technical
peer review of this technical standard.
We thank Dr. Alvin Young, DOE Office of Environmental Management Center for Risk
Excellence, for sponsoring and coordinating the independent technical peer review of this
technical standard.
We thank all of the BDAC members who provided comments and recommendations on
previous drafts of this technical standard, and who provided recommendations on the screening
and analysis methods which were piloted at the 1999 BDAC Meeting. We also thank the
representatives from federal and state agencies, and international organizations, who provided
review comments on previous drafts of this technical standard.
We thank Mr. Fred Baes (ORNL) for BDAC web site design, database design, and
maintenance support.
We thank Mr. Richard Serbu of the Department’s Technical Standards Program (DOE-TSP) for
guidance and support provided in establishing the BDAC.
Section 14
We thank the DOE-TSP Managers and points of contact for their helpful comments and
suggestions on this technical standard during the DOE-TSP formal review process.
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
We thank Mr. Andrew Lawrence, Director of the Office of Environmental Policy and Guidance
(EH-41); Mr. Andrew Wallo III, Director of the Air, Water, and Radiation Division (EH-412); and
Mr. Harold Peterson, EH-412 Environmental and Radiological Evaluation Unit Leader, for
sponsoring the BDAC and supporting the development of this technical standard.
We thank Mr. Raymond Berube, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Environment (EH-4), for his
support and recognition of the BDAC’s pioneering spirit and efforts in developing the biota dose
evaluation methods in this technical standard.
xix
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INTENTIONALLY BLANK
xx
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Scope, Purpose and Organization
This technical standard provides methods, models, and guidance within a graded approach that
the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and its contractors may use to evaluate doses of ionizing
radiation to populations of aquatic animals, terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals from DOE
activities for the purpose of demonstrating protection relative to Dose Rate Guidelines. It
provides dose evaluation methods that can be used to meet the requirements of DOE Order
5400.5, “Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment” (1990a) and DOE Order
5400.1, “General Environmental Protection Program” (1990b). The technical standard assumes
a threshold of protection for plants and animals at the following doses: for aquatic animals, 1
rad/d (10 mGy/d); for terrestrial plants, 1 rad/d (10 mGy/d); and for terrestrial animals, 0.1 rad/d
(1 mGy/d). Available data indicate that dose rates below these limits cause no measurable
adverse effects to populations of plants and animals.
The DOE graded approach includes a screening method and three more detailed levels of
analysis for demonstrating compliance with applicable dose limits for protection of biota. The
general screening method provides appropriately conservative limiting concentrations of
radionuclides in environmental media (termed "Biota Concentration Guides" or BCGs).
Radionuclide concentrations in samples of environmental media are easily compared with the
BCGs to evaluate compliance with biota dose limits. The three more detailed analysis methods
require more effort, but yield more accurate and realistic biota dose evaluations.
This technical standard is designed to be user-friendly, and is organized into three principal
Modules for ease of implementation. Material in each Module is cross-referenced to pertinent
sections in other Modules. There is some duplication of material across Modules by design, in
order to allow each to be used separately, if desired. Module 1 serves as the principal users
guide for step-by-step implementation of the graded approach to biota dose evaluation. Module
2 serves as a resource guide, providing detailed guidance for implementing key elements of the
graded approach identified in Module 1, and providing a “primer” on technical issues to be
considered when evaluating radiation as a stressor to the environment. Module 3 serves as a
technical reference source, providing the technical basis for the derivation of dose models,
screening values, and selection of default assumptions and parameters applied in the graded
approach. The organization and content of the technical standard are provided in Figure 1.
Section 15
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Figure 1 Organization and Contents of the DOE Technical Standard
xxii
DOE-STD-1153-2002
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Definitions
As defined and used in this technical standard:
Absorbed Dose (D) is the energy imparted to matter by ionizing radiation per unit mass of
irradiated material at the place of interest in that material. More specifically, for any radiation
type and any medium, absorbed dose (D) is the total energy (e) absorbed per unit mass (m) of
material: D = e/m. The absorbed dose is expressed in units of rad (gray), where 1 rad = 0.01
joule/kg material (1 gray = 100 rad). For the purposes of this technical standard, the absorbed
dose in an organism is assumed to be the average value over the whole organism.
Section 25
Allometric refers to the relative growth of a part in relation to the entire organism.
Alpha Particle is a helium-4 nucleus consisting of two protons and two neutrons, given off by
the decay of many heavy elements, including uranium and plutonium. Because the particles
are slow moving as well as heavy, alpha radiation can be blocked by a sheet of paper.
However, once an alpha emitter is in living tissue, it can cause substantial damage because of
the high ionization density along its path.
Aquatic Biota is plant or animal life living in or on water.
Arithmetic Mean is the most commonly used measure of central tendency, commonly called
the “average.” Mathematically, it is the sum of all the values of a set divided by the number of
values in the set:
n
j Xi
X̄ ' i'1
n
Assessment Endpoint is an explicit expression of the environmental value that is to be
protected, operationally defined by an ecological entity and its attributes. For example, salmon
are valued ecological entities; reproduction and age class structure are some of their important
attributes. Together "salmon reproduction and age class structure" form an assessment
endpoint.
Average - See “Arithmetic Mean.”
Beta Particle is an electron. It has a short range in air. Beta particles are moderately
penetrating and can cause skin burns from external exposure, but can be blocked by a sheet of
plywood.
Bias is a consistent underestimation or overestimation of the true values representing a
population.
Bioaccumulation is the ratio of the contaminant concentration in the organism relative to the
contaminant concentration in an environmental medium resulting from the uptake of the
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contaminant from one or more routes of exposure. This ratio is typically described through a
bioaccumulation factor (Biv).
Biomagnification is the tendency of some contaminants to accumulate to higher
concentrations at higher levels in the food web through dietary accumulation.
Biota is plant and animal life of a particular region.
Biota Concentration Guide (BCG) is the limiting concentration of a radionuclide in soil,
sediment, or water that would not cause dose limits for protection of populations of aquatic and
terrestrial biota (as used in this technical standard) to be exceeded.
Carnivore is a flesh-eating animal.
Chronic refers to an extended continuous exposure to a stressor or the effects resulting from
such an exposure.
Community is an assemblage of populations of different species within a specified location in
space and time.
Conceptual Model is a written description and visual representation of predicted relationships
between ecological entities and the stressors to which they may be exposed.
Data Quality Objectives (DQOs) are qualitative and quantitative statements that clarify
technical and quality objectives for a study, define the appropriate type of data, and specify
tolerable levels of uncertainty that a data user is willing to accept in the decision. DQOs specify
the problem to be solved, the decision, the inputs to the decision, the boundaries of the study,
the decision rule, and the limits of uncertainty.
Deterministic Effects are those for which the severity is a function of dose, and for which a
threshold usually exists.
Discharge Point is a conduit through which any radioactively contaminated gas, water, or solid
is discharged to the atmosphere, waters, or soils.
Section 26
Distribution Coefficient is the ratio of the mass of solute species absorbed or precipitated on
the soil or sediment to the solute concentration in the water. This ratio is typically described
through a Kd factor.
Ecological Relevance is one of three criteria for assessment endpoint selection. Ecologically
relevant endpoints reflect important characteristics of the system and are functionally related to
other endpoints.
Ecological Risk Assessment is the process that evaluates the likelihood that adverse
ecological effects may occur or are occurring as a result of exposure to one or more stressors.
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Effluent is any treated or untreated air emission or liquid discharge, including storm water
runoff.
Effluent Monitoring is the collection and analysis of samples or measurements of liquid,
gaseous, or airborne effluents for the purpose of characterizing and quantifying contaminant
levels and process stream characteristics, assessing radiation exposures to members of the
public and the environment, and demonstrating compliance with applicable standards.
Environmental Medium is a discrete portion of the total environment, animate or inanimate,
that may be sampled or measured directly.
Environmental Surveillance is the collection and analysis of samples of air, water, soil,
foodstuffs, biota, and other media and the measurement of external radiation and radioactive
materials for purposes of demonstrating compliance with applicable standards, assessing
radiation exposures to members of the public, and assessing effects, if any, on the local
environment.
Error is the difference between an observed or measured value and its true value.
Exposure is the co-occurrence or contact between the endpoint organism and the stressor
(e.g., radiation or radionuclides).
Facility means a building, structure, or installation subject to the regulations/standards
pertinent to this technical standard.
Forb is an herb other than grass.
Gamma Rays are high-energy electromagnetic photons similar to X-rays. They are highly
penetrating and several inches of lead or several feet of concrete are necessary to shield
against them.
Geometric Mean is mathematically expressed as the nth root of the product of all values in a
set of n values:
1/n
n
X̄g ' J Xi
i'1
or as the antilogarithm of the arithmetic mean of the logarithms of all the values of a set of n
values:
n
j log Xi
i'1X̄g ' antilog
n
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The geometric mean is generally used when the logarithms of a set of values are normally
distributed, as is the case for much of the monitoring and surveillance data.
Geometric Standard Deviation is mathematically expressed as the antilog of the standard
deviation of the logarithms of the measurements:
n 1/2 j log Xi
2
log Xi & i'1
n nSg ' antilog Xi…0j n&1i'1
Grab Sample is a single sample acquired over a short interval of time.
Herbivore is a plant-eating animal.
Lentic refers to living in or relating to still waters (as lakes, ponds, or swamps).
Lotic refers to living in or relating to actively moving water (as streams or rivers).
Median is the middle value of a set of data when the data are ranked in increasing or
decreasing order. If there is an even number of values in the set, the median is the arithmetic
average of the two middle values; if the number of values is odd, it is the middle value.
Mode refers to the value occurring most frequently in a data set.
Monitoring is the use of instruments, systems, or special techniques to measure liquid,
Section 27
gaseous, solid, and/or airborne effluents and contaminants.
Nuclide refers to an isotope, either stable or unstable, of any chemical element.
Phylogenetic refers to the evolution of a genetically related group of organisms as
distinguished from the development of the individual organism.
Poikilothermic refers to a cold-blooded organism.
Population is an aggregate of individuals of a species within a specified location in space and
time.
Proportional Sample is a sample consisting of a known fraction of the original stream.
Quality refers to the totality of features and characteristics of a material, process, product,
service, or activity that bears on its ability to satisfy a given purpose.
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Quality Assurance (QA) refers to those planned and systematic actions necessary to provide
adequate confidence that a measurement represents the sampled population. Quality
assurance includes quality control (QC), which comprises all those actions necessary to control
and verify the features and characteristics of a material, process, product, or service to
specified requirements.
Quality Control (QC) refers to those actions necessary to control and verify the features and
characteristics of a material, process, product, service, or activity to specified requirements.
The aim of quality control is to provide quality that is satisfactory, adequate, dependable, and
economical.
Rad is a unit of absorbed dose of ionizing radiation equal to an energy of 100 ergs per gram of
irradiated material.
Radiation (Ionizing) refers to alpha particles, beta particles, photons (gamma rays or x-rays),
high-energy electrons, and any other particles capable of producing ions.
Radioactive Material refers to any material or combination of materials that contain
radionuclides that spontaneously emits ionizing radiation.
Radionuclide is an unstable nuclide that undergoes spontaneous transformation, emitting
radiation. There are approximately 2,200 known radionuclides, both man-made and naturally
occurring. A radionuclide is identified by the number of neutrons and protons in the atomic
nucleus and its half-life.
Random Error refers to variations of repeated measurements made within a sample set that
are random in nature and individually not predictable. The causes of random error are
assumed to be indeterminate or non-assignable. Random errors are generally assumed to be
normally distributed.
Random Samples are samples obtained in such a manner that all items or members of the lot,
or population, have an equal chance of being selected in the sample.
Range is the difference between the maximum and minimum values of a set of values.
Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) is defined as the ratio of the absorbed dose of a
reference radiation (normally gamma rays or X rays) required to produce a level of biological
response to the absorbed dose of the radiation of concern required to produce the same level
of biological response, all other conditions being kept constant.
Representative Individual is an individual organism within a population that receives a
radiation dose which is equivalent to the value of the appropriate measure of central tendency
(i.e., mean, median, mode) of the distribution of doses received by that population. The
individual is assumed to be representative of the population as a whole.
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Section 28
Representative Sample is a sample taken to depict the characteristics of a lot or population as
accurately and precisely as possible. A representative sample may be a “random sample” or a
“stratified sample” depending upon the objective of the sampling and the characteristics of the
conceptual population.
Riparian Organisms are those organisms related to, living, or located on the bank of a natural
watercourse (as a river) or sometimes of a lake or a tidewater.
Safety Factor is a factor applied to an observed or estimated toxic concentration or dose to
arrive at a criterion or standard that is considered safe.
Sample has two definitions: 1) A subset or group of objects selected from a larger set, called
the “lot” or “population;” and 2) an extracted portion or subset of an effluent stream or
environmental media.
Sampling is the extraction of a prescribed portion of an effluent stream or of an environmental
medium for purposes of inspection and/or analysis.
Sequential Sampling refers to timed samples collected from an effluent stream.
Site refers to the land or property upon which DOE facilities or activities are located and access
to which is subject to Departmental or DOE contractor control.
Source (Radioactive) is either (1) a known amount of radioactive material emanating a
characteristic amount of energy in the form of alpha, beta, gamma, neutron, or x-ray emissions
(or a combination of such emissions), or (2) a single process or release point that contributes to
or causes a release to the environment and that can be separated from other processes by a
break in the flow of material.
Standard Deviation is an indication of the dispersion of a set of results around the average of
samples collected or the mean of a population; it is the positive square root of the sample
variance. For samples taken from a population, the standard deviation, s, is calculated as:
n 1/2
¯j (Xi & X)2
i'1s '
n & 1
¯where X = average value of the samples measured;
n = number of samples measured; and
Xi = individual measurement value for sample I.
For a finite population, the standard deviation (σ) is
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N 1/2
j (Xi & µ)2
i'1σ '
N
where F is the mean value of the population and N is the number of values within the
population.
Stochastic Effects are those for which the probability of occurrence is a function of dose, but
the severity of the effects is independent of dose.
Stratified Sample (Stratified Random Sample) refers to a sample consisting of various
portions that have been obtained from identified subparts or subcategories (strata) of the total
lot or population. Within each category or stratum, the samples are taken randomly. The
objective of taking stratified samples is to obtain a more representative sample than might be
obtained by a completely random sampling.
Systematic Error is the condition in which there is a consistent deviation of the results from the
actual or true values by a measurement process. The cause for the deviation, or bias, may be
known or unknown; however, it is considered “assignable” (i.e., the cause can be reasonably
determined).
Terrestrial Biota is plant and animal life living on or in land.
Variability is a general term for the dispersion of values in a data set.
Variance is a measure of the variability of samples within a subset or the entire population.
Mathematically, the sample variance (s2) is the sum of squares of the differences between the
individual values of a set and the arithmetic average of the set, divided by one less than the
number of values:
Section 29
n
¯j (Xi & X)2
2 i'1s '
n & 1
where Xi = value of sample i;
X̄ = average of samples measured; and
n = number of samples measured.
For a finite population, the variance (σ2) is the sum of squares of deviations from the arithmetic
mean, divided by the number of values in the population:
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N
j (Xi & µ)2
σ2 i'1
'
N
where F is the mean value of the population and N is the number of values within the
population.
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Acronyms and Abbreviations
λbio biological decay constant
λeff the combination of biological and radiological decay constants
λrad radiological decay constant
ACRP Advisory Committee on Radiation Protection
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
Biv bioaccumulation factor
BCG Biota Concentration Guide
BDAC Biota Dose Assessment Committee
CERCLA Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CV coefficient of variation
D absorbed dose
H dose equivalent
DOE U.S. Department of Energy
DQO data quality objectives
EE/CA engineering evaluation/cost analysis
EH DOE’s Office of Environment, Safety, and Health
EMS Environmental Management System
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
IAEA International Atomic Energy Agency
ICRP International Commission on Radiological Protection
Kd solid/solution distribution coefficient
M&O management and operating (contractor)
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NCRP National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
NEA Nuclear Energy Agency
NEPA National Environmental Policy Act
NIST National Institute of Standards and Technology
NOAEL No Observed Adverse Effects Levels
NRC U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NRDA Natural Resource Damage Assessment
PRA population-relevant attribute
QA quality assurance
QC quality control
QF quality factor
RBE relative biological effectiveness
RCRA Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
RI/FS remedial investigation/feasibility study
UNSCEAR United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation
USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
wT tissue or organ weighting factor
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
A Graded Approach for
Evaluating Radiation Doses to
Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota
MODULE 1
PRINCIPLES AND
APPLICATION
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
1 Introduction
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is accountable to Congress and the public for the safe
conduct of its activities, including facility operation, waste management and disposal activities,
and remediation of environmental contamination. These routine activities may result in
releases of radionuclides to the air and water, accumulation of radionuclides in soil and
sediment, and the potential for plants, animals, and members of the public to be exposed to
radiation. DOE Order 5400.5, “Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment”
(1990a), lists the environmental radiation protection requirements that DOE and DOE-
contractor employees must meet to protect aquatic animals. In addition, dose limits below
which deleterious effects on populations of aquatic and terrestrial organisms have not been
observed, as discussed by the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
(NCRP 1991), and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA 1992), are considered by
DOE to be relevant to the protection of all aquatic and terrestrial biota on DOE sites.
Section 30
1.1 Purpose
This DOE technical standard provides a graded approach (including screening methods and
methods for detailed analyses) and related guidance that DOE and DOE contractors may use
to evaluate compliance with specified limits on radiation dose to populations of aquatic animals,
terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals due to anthropogenic sources at DOE sites.
Specifically, the technical standard provides dose evaluation methods that can be used to meet
the requirements for protection of biota in DOE Orders 5400.1, "General Environmental
Protection Program" (DOE 1990b), 5400.5 (DOE 1990a), and the dose limits for protection of
biota developed or discussed by the NCRP (1991) and IAEA (1992). Accordingly, this technical
standard uses the biota dose limits specified below within a graded approach to demonstrate
that populations of plants and animals are adequately protected from the effects of ionizing
radiation:
C Aquatic Animals. The absorbed dose to aquatic animals should not exceed 1 rad/d
(10 mGy/d) from exposure to radiation or radioactive material releases into the aquatic
environment. This dose limit is specified in DOE Order 5400.5.
C Terrestrial Plants. The absorbed dose to terrestrial plants should not exceed 1 rad/d
(10 mGy/d) from exposure to radiation or radioactive material releases into the terrestrial
environment.
C Terrestrial Animals. The absorbed dose to terrestrial animals should not exceed 0.1 rad/d
(1 mGy/d) from exposure to radiation or radioactive material releases into the terrestrial
environment.
Avoiding measurable impairment of reproductive capability is deemed to be the critical
biological endpoint of concern in establishing the dose limits for aquatic and terrestrial biota.
Module 1, Section 1.2.2 discusses this issue further. Guidance for interpreting and applying
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these dose limits with respect to the length of time and geographic area over which actual
doses should be compared with the limits is provided in Module 2, Section 3.
DOE has proposed these dose limits for aquatic and terrestrial biota under proposed rule
Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 834 (10 CFR 834), “Radiation Protection of the
Public and the Environment” (DOE 1993). DOE has decided not to promulgate these dose
limits until guidance for demonstrating compliance has been developed. Consequently, this
technical standard was developed, in part, in response to comments and recommendations
received by DOE through the proposed rule comment period. Principal themes in the
comments included: (1) requests for development of cost-effective methods to support the use
of DOE's existing and proposed biota dose limits, (2) support for a multi-tiered approach to
include screening, (3) requests for guidance on biota monitoring, and (4) requests for
development of a generic method to promote consistency, while retaining some flexibility for
site-specific methods and information. These themes served as the guiding principles for
development of the methods contained in this technical standard.
Section 31
The specific methods and guidance in this technical standard are acceptable for use by DOE
and DOE-contractors when evaluating doses to biota in relation to the above dose limits.
The methods and guidance in this technical standard should also be useful to ecological risk
assessors who must evaluate risks to biota from radionuclides that occur on DOE sites. Using
the graded approach provided in this technical standard, risk assessors can use soil, sediment,
and water radionuclide concentration data to determine whether radionuclide concentrations at
a site are likely to result in doses in excess of those listed above and would, therefore, have the
potential to impact resident populations of plants and animals. The methods can also give risk
assessors an immediate qualitative assessment of the importance of doses of ionizing radiation
to the resident receptors. The dose equations in this technical standard also provide methods
of estimating upper-bound (e.g., conservatively derived) doses to specific plants and animals.
Refer to Module 1, Section 3, for a description of intended and potential applications of the
DOE graded approach.
1.2 Background
1.2.1 Increasing Interest and Need for Biota Dose Evaluation Methods
There is growing national and international interest in establishing a regulatory framework (e.g.,
to include standards or criteria) and supporting evaluation methodologies for demonstrating
protection of the environment from the effects of ionizing radiation. Regarding environmental
protection, the ICRP statement that "...if man is adequately protected then other living things
are also likely to be sufficiently protected" (ICRP 1977; 1991) uses human protection to infer
environmental protection from the effects of ionizing radiation. This assumption is most
appropriate in cases where humans and other biota inhabit the same environment and have
common routes of exposure, and less appropriate in cases where human access is restricted or
pathways exist that are much more important for biota than for humans. The inclusion of
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radiation as a stressor within ecological risk assessments is also a consideration. Ecological
risk assessments at contaminated sites being considered for remediation under the
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) generally
require an assessment of all stressors, including radiation. Assessments of radiation impacts
on contaminated ecosystems are currently underway in the U.S. under CERCLA regulations
(EPA 1988).
Nationally and internationally, no Benefits of a Screening Process
standardized methods have been
adopted for evaluating doses and “A multi-tiered screening approach is normally used in
demonstrating protection of plants and ecological risk assessments. Screening may also be a
potentially cost-effective and easy way of animals from the effects of ionizing
demonstrating compliance with radiation criteria or
standards for protection of the environment. Screening
radiation. In 1999, the IAEA convened
a technical committee examining
values should be used to identify radionuclides in protection of the environment from the
situations of concern, and to determine whether these effects of ionizing radiation and
radionuclides warrant further assessment, or if they are provided recommendations and
at levels that require no further attention. In practice,
Section 32
discussion points for moving forward this initial screening is expected to be sufficient in the
with the development of protection majority of cases. When initial screening fails,
frameworks and dose assessment additional analysis or assessment may be needed. A
methods. The resulting IAEA two- or three-tiered scheme would help ensure that the
Technical Document, "Protection of magnitude of the assessment effort would be scaled to
the likelihood and severity of environmental impacts.” the Environment from the Effects of
Ionizing Radiation" (1999) references
From: IAEA-TECDOC-1091, Protection of the multi-tiered screening as a potentially
Environment from the Effects of Ionizing Radiation: A cost-effective and easy way of
Report for Discussion (July 1999) demonstrating compliance with
radiation criteria for protection of biota.
The IAEA has subsequently hosted a
series of Specialists’ Meetings on radiological protection of the environment, and the Nuclear
Energy Agency (NEA) and the ICRP have sponsored a series of fora on this issue. It is hoped
that the methods and guidance provided in this DOE technical standard will serve as a platform
for national and international discussion of radiation protection frameworks, standards, and
dose assessment methods for biota.
1.2.2 Basis for Biota Dose Limits Applied in this Technical Standard
A dose limit for controlling radiological impacts from DOE activities to native aquatic animals is
specified in DOE Order 5400.5. At present, DOE Orders do not specify dose limits for
terrestrial organisms. However, an intended objective of DOE Orders 5400.1 and 5400.5 is to
protect the aquatic and terrestrial environment, including populations of plants and animals,
within and beyond the boundaries of DOE sites from impacts of routine DOE activities. The
dose limits in this technical standard are consistent with (a) the intent of DOE Orders 5400.1
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and 5400.5, (b) the dose limit for aquatic animals specified in DOE Order 5400.5, and
(c) findings of the IAEA and NCRP regarding doses below which deleterious effects on
populations of aquatic and terrestrial organisms have not been observed. They are also
consistent with the intent of the IAEA document, “The Principles of Radioactive Waste
Management” (IAEA 1995), in which Principle 2 states that “radioactive waste shall be managed
in such a way as to provide an acceptable level of environmental protection.” The background
for the dose limits for aquatic and terrestrial biota is briefly discussed below. These dose limits
represent expected safe levels of exposure, and are consensus No Adverse Effects Levels
(NOAELs) for effects on population-relevant attributes in natural populations of biota.
1.2.2.1 Aquatic Organisms
At the request of DOE, the NCRP (1991) reviewed the literature on the effects of radiation on
aquatic organisms and prepared a report on the then-current understanding of such effects.
The report also provided guidance for protecting populations of aquatic organisms, concluding
that a chronic dose of no greater than 1 rad/d (0.4 mGy/h) to the maximally exposed individual
in a population of aquatic organisms would ensure protection of the population.
The IAEA examined and summarized the conclusions regarding aquatic organisms of several
previous reviews (IAEA 1992):
• Aquatic organisms are no more sensitive than other organisms; however, because they
are poikilothermic animals, temperature can control the time of expression of radiation
effects.
Section 33
• The radiosensitivity of aquatic organisms increases with increasing complexity, that is,
as organisms occupy successively higher positions on the phylogenetic scale.
• The radiosensitivity of many aquatic organisms changes with age, or, in the case of
unhatched eggs, with the stage of development.
• Embryo development in fish and the process of gametogenesis appear to be the most
radiosensitive stages of all aquatic organisms tested.
• The radiation-induced mutation rate for aquatic organisms appears to be between that
for Drosophila (fruit flies) and mice.
Furthermore, the 1992 review found that the conclusions of an earlier IAEA review (1976) were
still supported; namely, that appreciable effects in aquatic populations would not be expected at
doses lower than 1 rad/d (10 mGy/d) and that limiting the dose to the maximally exposed
individuals to less than 1 rad/d would provide adequate protection of the population.
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1.2.2.2 Terrestrial Organisms
The IAEA (1992) summarized information about the effects of acute ionizing radiation on
terrestrial organisms as follows:
• Reproduction (encompassing the processes from gametic formation through embryonic
development) is likely to be the most limiting endpoint in terms of survival of the
population.
• Lethal doses vary widely among different species, with birds, mammals, and a few tree
species being the most sensitive among those considered.
• Acute doses of 10 rad (100 mGy) or less are very unlikely to produce persistent and
measurable deleterious changes in populations or communities of terrestrial plants or
animals.
The IAEA (1992) also summarized information about the effects of chronic radiation on
terrestrial organisms:
• Reproduction (encompassing the processes from gametogenesis through embryonic
development) is likely to be the most limiting endpoint in terms of population
maintenance.
• Sensitivity to chronic radiation varies markedly among different taxa; certain mammals,
birds, reptiles, and a few tree species appear to be the most sensitive.
• In the case of invertebrates, indirect responses to radiation-induced changes in
vegetation appear more critical than direct effects.
• Irradiation at chronic dose rates of 1 rad/d (10 mGy/d) or less does not appear likely to
cause observable changes in terrestrial plant populations.
• Irradiation at chronic dose rates of 0.1 rad/d (1 mGy/d) or less does not appear likely to
cause observable changes in terrestrial animal populations. The assumed threshold for
effects in terrestrial animals is less than that for terrestrial plants, primarily because
some species of mammals and reptiles are considered to be more radiosensitive.
• Reproductive effects on long-lived species with low reproductive capacity may require
further consideration.
The NCRP and IAEA concluded for aquatic organisms and the IAEA concluded for terrestrial
organisms that the statement by the ICRP (1977; 1991), "...if man is adequately protected, then
other living things are also likely to be sufficiently protected" was reasonable within the
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Section 34
limitations of the generic exposure scenarios examined. A similar assessment was made at a
DOE-sponsored workshop (Barnthouse 1995) held to evaluate the adequacy of existing effects
data and approaches to radiation protection of aquatic and terrestrial organisms to support
moving forward with setting regulatory limits. DOE workshop participants agreed that
protecting humans generally protects biota, except under the following conditions: (1) human
access to a contaminated area is restricted but access by biota is not restricted, (2) unique
exposure pathways exist for plants and animals that do not affect exposure of humans, (3) rare
or endangered species are present, or (4) other stresses on the plant or animal population are
significant.
1.2.2.3 Additional Summaries and Reviews of Radiation Effects Data on Biota Confirming
NCRP and IAEA Findings
UNSCEAR. In 1996, the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic
Radiation (UNSCEAR) summarized and reviewed information on the responses to acute and
chronic radiation of plants and animals, both as individuals and as populations (UNSCEAR
1996). The conclusions from the UNSCEAR review were consistent with findings and
recommendations made earlier by the NCRP and IAEA concerning biota effects data and
appropriate dose limits for protection of biota. In 2002, UNSCEAR reported that these dose
rate criteria (1 rad/d for aquatic animals and terrestrial plants; 0.1 rad/d for terrestrial animals)
remain defensible for protection of populations of plants and animals. The UNSCEAR plans to
develop a new scientific annex to further address radioecology and effects of radiation on the
environment (Gentner 2002).
UK Environment Agency. In 2001, the Environment Agency of the United Kingdom (UK)
conducted a review of the available body of radiation effects data on biota (Copplestone et al.
2001). They concluded that it is unlikely that there will be any significant effects in:
• populations of freshwater and coastal organisms at chronic dose rates below 400 uGy/h (or
1 rad/d; 10 mGy/d);
• terrestrial plant populations at chronic dose rates below 400 uGy/h (or 1 rad/d; 10 mGy/d);
and
• terrestrial animal populations at chronic dose rates below 40 uGy/h (or 0.1 rad/d; 1 mGy/d).
It is noteworthy that the UK Environment Agency’s review findings are largely consistent with
the findings and biota dose recommendations of the NCRP, the IAEA, and UNSCEAR cited
above. Additionally, they concluded that it is unlikely that there will be any significant effects in
populations of organisms in the deep ocean at chronic dose rates below 1,000 uGy/h (or 2.5
rad/d; 25 mGy/d).
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ACRP. In 2002, the Advisory Committee on Radiation Protection (ACRP), charged with
providing advice to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regarding approaches
needed for the radiological protection of the environment, provided recommendations
concerning appropriate dose rate criteria for protection of biota. The ACRP recommended that
the generic dose rate criterion for protecting biota should be in the range of 1-10 mGy/d (0.1-1
rad/d). The ACRP indicated that this dose rate criterion is based on population-level effects
and, given the current state of knowledge and consensus views of radiation effects on biota,
represents the level at which ecosystems will suffer no appreciable deleterious effects. The
criterion is specified in terms of daily dose rather than annual dose. The intent is to avoid, for
example, what would be the annual dose at this dose rate criterion being received in a few
days. The ACRP further recommended that there should be some flexibility in the averaging
time used in interpreting this dose rate criterion (CNSC-ACRP 2002).
Section 35
1.2.2.4 Application of Biota Dose Limits as “Dose Rate Guidelines” for Evaluating Doses
to Biota
The biota dose limits specified in this technical standard are based on the current state of
science and knowledge regarding effects of ionizing radiation on plants and animals. They
should not be interpreted as a “bright line” that, if exceeded, would trigger a mandatory
regulatory or remedial action. Rather, they should be interpreted and applied more as “Dose
Rate Guidelines” that provide an indication that populations of plants and animals could be
impacted from exposure to ionizing radiation and that further investigation and action is likely
necessary.
1.2.3 Protection of Populations
The intent of the graded approach (i.e., the screening and analysis methods) in this technical
standard is to protect populations of aquatic animals, terrestrial animals, and terrestrial plants
from the effects of exposure to anthropogenic ionizing radiation. As noted above, certain taxa
are more sensitive to ionizing radiation than others. Based on this observation, it is generally
assumed that protecting the more sensitive taxa will adequately protect other, less sensitive
taxa. Hence, in cases where site-specific evaluations may be required, receptors should be
selected that (1) are important to the structure and function of the community, (2) are expected
to receive a comparatively high degree of exposure (e.g., expected to receive a radiation dose
to reproductive tissues which is relatively high per unit of radionuclide present in the ecosystem,
in comparison with other receptors in the same community), and (3) have a comparatively high
degree of radiosensitivity (e.g., radiation effects of concern occur at relatively low doses, in
comparison with other receptors in the same community). Figure 1.1 shows the relative
radiosensitivity of various taxa for both aquatic and terrestrial systems.
Participants at the DOE-sponsored workshop to evaluate the adequacy of existing effects data
and approaches to radiation protection of aquatic and terrestrial organisms (Barnthouse 1995)
concluded that existing data support the application of recommended dose limits to
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representative rather than maximally exposed individuals within populations of plants and
animals. Participants concluded that exposure below the recommended dose limits would not
cause adverse effects at the population level, even though some individuals within the
population might be adversely affected.
Viruses
Molluscs
Protozoa
Bacteria
Moss, Lichen, Algae
Insects
Crustaceans
Reptiles
Amphibians
Fish
Higher Plants
Birds
Mammals
ACUTE LETHAL DOSE (Gy)
ACUTE LETHAL DOSE (rad)
1
100
10
1,000
100
10,000
1,000
100,000
10,000
1,000,000
Figure 1.1 Approximate Acute Lethal Dose Ranges for Various Taxonomic Groups
Source: Whicker and Schulz 1982; UNSCEAR 1996.
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Overview of the DOE Graded Approach
DOE's graded approach for evaluating radiation doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota consists
of a three-step process which is designed to guide a user from an initial, conservative general
screening to, if needed, a more rigorous analysis using site-specific information (Figure 2.1).
The three-step process includes: (1) assembling radionuclide concentration data and
knowledge of sources, receptors, and routes of exposure for the area to be evaluated;
(2) applying an easy-to-use general screening methodology that provides limiting radionuclide
concentration values (i.e., Biota Concentration Guides - BCGs) in soil, sediment, and water;
and (3) if needed, conducting an analysis through site-specific screening, site-specific analysis,
or an actual site-specific biota dose assessment conducted within an eco-risk. Any of the steps
within the graded approach may be used at any time, but the general screening methodology
will usually be the simplest, most cost-effective, and least time-consuming. Table 2.1 provides
a summary of DOE’s graded approach.
Section 36
Figure 2.1 Overview of the DOE Graded Approach for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic
and Terrestrial Biota
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Table 2.1 Summary of DOE's Three-Step Process for Evaluating Radiation Doses to Aquatic
and Terrestrial Biota
1. Data Assembly Knowledge of sources, receptors, and routes of exposure
for the area to be evaluated is summarized. Measured radionuclide
concentrations in water, sediment, and soil are assembled for
subsequent screening.
2. General Screening Maximum measured radionuclide concentrations in an environmental
medium (i.e., water, sediment, soil) are compared with a set of Biota
Concentration Guides (BCGs). Each radionuclide-specific BCG
represents the limiting radionuclide concentration in an
environmental medium which would not result in recommended dose
standards for biota to be exceeded.
3. Analysis
(a) Site-Specific
Screening
(b) Site-Specific
Analysis
(c)Site-Specific Biota
Dose Assessment
This phase consists of three increasingly more detailed steps of
analysis.
Site-specific screening, using more realistic site-representative
lumped parameters (e.g., bioaccumulation factors) in place of
conservative default parameters. Use of mean radionuclide
concentrations in place of maximum values, taking into account time
dependence and spatial extent of contamination, may be considered.
Site-specific analysis employing a kinetic modeling tool (applicable to
riparian and terrestrial animal organism types) provided as part of the
graded approach methodology. Multiple parameters which represent
contributions to the organism’s internal dose (e.g., body mass,
consumption rate of food/soil, inhalation rate, lifespan, biological
elimination rates) can be modified to represent site and organism-
specific characteristics. The kinetic model employs allometric
equations relating body mass to these internal dose parameters.
An actual site-specific biota dose assessment involving the collection
and analysis of biota samples. The dose assessment would involve
a problem formulation, analysis, and risk characterization protocol
consistent with the widely-used ecological risk assessment
paradigm.
2.1 Key Features of the Graded Approach
The graded approach was designed for flexibility and acceptability:
• It provides users with a tiered approach for demonstrating compliance with biota dose limits
that is generally cost-effective and easy-to-implement.
• It allows for the use of measured radionuclide concentrations in environmental media
typically collected as part of routine environmental surveillance programs.
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• It is designed for multiple applications. The technical standard is applicable to
demonstrations of compliance with biota dose limits and for use in ecological risk
assessments of radiological impact.
• It provides a framework that supports the use of site-specific information.
• It incorporates ecological risk assessment concepts and provides guidance for site-specific
biota dose assessments (where needed) employing the widely-used ecological risk
assessment (ERA) paradigm.
• All of the equations and resulting BCGs contained in this technical standard have been
encoded into a series of electronic spreadsheets. The spreadsheets were built using
Microsoft Excel® and incorporate Visual Basic® commands to help guide and automate the
user’s progression through the biota dose evaluation process. Use of these spreadsheets,
termed the "RAD-BCG Calculator," is described in Module 1, Sections 4-8. Refer to Module
1, Section 4 for an overview of the RAD-BCG Calculator and its contents for use as a
companion tool to this technical standard.
Section 37
• It provides users with “a place to start” and “an analysis path forward.” The BCGs are not
stand-alone. Exceedance of BCGs leads the user to the more-detailed tiers of analysis as
needed in a stepwise manner. These linkages are an integral part of the graded approach
framework and are built into the companion software tool, the RAD-BCG Calculator.
2.2 Key Points Regarding Methods Derivation
Internal and external sources of dose (and their contributing exposure pathways) are
incorporated in the derivation of the graded approach methodology. Sufficient prudence has
been exercised in the development of each of the assumptions and default parameter values to
ensure that the resulting BCGs are appropriately conservative. In the event that an individual
default parameter value is subsequently found to be an upper-end value but not the “most
limiting” value for a unique site-specific exposure scenario, the other prudent assumptions and
default parameter values will ensure that the BCGs (and resultant doses to biota) should
continue to carry the appropriate degree of conservatism for screening purposes. Refer to
Module 3 for a detailed description of the derivation of dose equations and default parameters
used in the graded approach. Key assumptions used in deriving the BCGs that highlight the
conservatism applied in the general screening phase are presented in Table 2.2. Exposure
pathways for each of the reference organism types considered in the graded approach are
presented in Figures 2.2 through 2.5. A summary of the general dose equation and approach
used to derive the BCGs is provided in Table 2.3.
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Table 2.2 Assumptions Regarding Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure Applied in the
General Screening Phase of the Graded Approach
Dose Limits • BCGs were derived for aquatic animal, riparian animal, terrestrial plant,
and terrestrial animal reference organisms. The dose rate limits used to
derive the BCGs for each organism type are 1 rad/d, 0.1 rad/d, 1 rad/d,
and 0.1 rad/d respectively.
• While existing effects data support the application of these dose limits to
representative individuals within populations of plants and animals, the
assumptions and parameters applied in the derivation of the BCGs are
based on a maximally exposed individual, representing a conservative
approach for screening purposes.
External
Sources of
Radiation
Exposure
• Estimates of the contribution to dose from external radioactive material
were made assuming that all of the ionizing radiation was deposited in the
organism (i.e., no pass-through and no self-shielding). This is
conservative, and is tantamount to assuming that the radiosensitive
tissues of concern (the reproductive tissues) lie on the surface of a very
small organism.
• For external exposure to contaminated soil, the source was presumed to
be infinite in extent. In the case of external exposure to contaminated
sediment and water, the source was presumed to be semi-infinite in
extent.
• The source medium to which the organisms are continuously exposed is
assumed to contain uniform concentrations of radionuclides.
• These assumptions provide for appropriately conservative estimates of
energy deposition in the organism from external sources of radiation
exposure.
Internal Sources
of Radiation
Exposure
• Estimates of the contribution to dose from internal radioactive material
were conservatively made assuming that all of the decay energy is
retained in the tissue of the organism, (i.e., 100% absorption).
Section 38
• Progeny of radionuclides and their decay chains are also included. This
provides an over-estimate of internal exposure, as the lifetime of many of
the biota of interest is generally short compared to the time for the build-up
of progeny for certain radionuclides.
• The radionuclides are presumed to be homogeneously distributed in the
tissues of the receptor organism. This is unlikely to under-estimate the
actual dose to the tissues of concern (i.e., reproductive organs).
• A radiation weighing factor of 20 for alpha particles is used in calculating
the BCGs for all organism types. This is conservative, especially if non-
stochastic effects are most important in determining harm to biota. The
true value may be a factor of 3 to 4 lower.
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Figure 2.2 Exposure Pathways for Aquatic Animals
Figure 2.3 Exposure Pathways for Riparian Animals
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Figure 2.4 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Plants
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Figure 2.5 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Animals
Table 2.3 General Dose Equation and Approach Used to Derive BCGs
Dose Rate Limit Limiting Concentration '
(Internal Dose Rate)%(External Dose Ratesoil /sed.)%(External Dose Rate )water
• The limiting concentration in an environmental medium was calculated by first setting a target total
dose (e.g., 1 rad/d for aquatic organisms and terrestrial plants, or 0.1 rad/d for riparian and
terrestrial animals) and then back-calculating to the medium concentration (i.e., the BCG)
necessary to produce the applicable dose from radionuclides in the organism (internal dose), plus
the external dose components from radionuclides in the environment (external dose).
• The denominator of the generic equation represents the dose per unit media concentration and
may be broken down into the base components of internal and external dose.
• Internal doses originate from radionuclides inside the organism’s body. The internal dose is
calculated as the product of the internal radionuclide concentration and internal dose conversion
factor. External doses originate from radionuclides external to the organism and are calculated as
the product of the radionuclide concentration in the environmental medium in which the organism
resides and an appropriate dose conversion factor.
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2.3 Relationship of the Graded
Approach to Ecological Risk
Assessment
The graded approach for evaluating radiation
doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota is
consistent with the standard ecological risk
assessment (ERA) paradigm (EPA 1998).
The ERA structure provides a process for
organizing and evaluating information to
determine the nature, likelihood, and
magnitude of potential impacts on
environmental receptors (Suter 1993). The
three major phases of an ERA are problem
formulation, analysis of exposure and
effects, and risk characterization. The ERA
is typically done in successively rigorous
tiers, each of which includes the three
general ERA phases (Suter, Efroymson,
The Graded Approach Is a Framework for
Organizing Successively Rigorous Tiers of
Assessment, with a Particular Emphasis on
Ionizing Radiation.
The graded approach for evaluating radiation
doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota is
consistent with the standard ecological risk
assessment (ERA) paradigm (EPA 1998). As in
the standard ERA paradigm, the graded
approach moves from a simple and relatively
conservative screening evaluation to a more
detailed and realistic assessment. Each step in
the graded approach addresses, either explicitly
or implicitly, the principal ERA components.
That is, the graded approach is a framework for
organizing the successively rigorous ERA tiers,
but with a particular emphasis on ionizing
radiation.
Section 39
Sample & Jones 2000). As in the widely-
used ERA paradigm, the graded approach moves from a simple and relatively conservative
screening evaluation to a more detailed and realistic assessment. Each step in the graded
approach addresses, either explicitly or implicitly, all of the aforementioned ERA components.
That is, the graded approach is a framework for organizing the successively rigorous ERA tiers,
but with a particular emphasis on ionizing radiation.
The ERA process is general in nature and could be applied to the evaluation of radiation as a
stressor, but not without some modifications and provision of additional guidance. There are
some noteworthy technical issues concerning the evaluation of radiation that require further
consideration and elaboration. Some issues are the same as for chemicals, but some are
unique to radionuclides. In response to requests for guidance on this topic, Module 2, Section
1 provides a basic “primer” on technical issues that should be considered when evaluating
radiation as a stressor to the environment, and draws on the experiences gained by BDAC
members in developing the graded approach and conducting radiological ERAs. To our
knowledge, standardized guidance on how to address these issues is not available elsewhere.
M1-16
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3 Application Considerations
The principal application of the graded approach is to demonstrate that routine DOE operations
and activities are in compliance with the biota dose limits for protecting populations of plants
and animals. In addition, the design of the graded approach (e.g., assumptions used; a multi-
tiered screening and analysis approach; flexibility to allow use of site-specific information on
sources, receptors, and routes of exposure) permits its application in ecological assessments of
radiological impact and in other environmental assessment scenarios. Discussions on other
intended or potential applications of the graded approach were first held in 1999 at a Biota
Dose Assessment Committee (BDAC) Meeting (DOE 1999). Additional applications of the
graded approach were identified by users
and reviewers of an interim version of this
Data Quality Objectives technical standard that was made available
for a trial use period beginning in July 2000
Data quality objectives (DQOs) shall be
(DOE 2000a). Recommendations made by
considered when determining the
BDAC members and users on the intended appropriateness of applying the DOE graded
and potential applications of the graded approach to other environmental assessment
approach are summarized in an applications scenarios identified in Table 3.1.
matrix (Table 3.1).
Table 3.1 Applications Matrix Summarizing Intended and Potential Uses of the DOE Graded
Approach
APPLICATIONS INTENDED / POTENTIAL USE CONSIDERATIONS
Types of Receptors
Populations of plants and animals This is the primary intended use.
Individual plants and animals,
including threatened and
endangered species, and
commercially or culturally valued
species
Equations used within the graded
approach are technically sound
for application to individual
organisms. Applying dose limits
intended for the protection of
populations to evaluations of
individuals may require further
consideration.
Use of effects endpoints/dose
limits appropriate for protection of
the individuals being evaluated;
and/or application of safety
factors, conservative exposure
assumptions, and parameter
values. Dose evaluations should
be performed under the
provisions of the applicable
Federal and/or state statutes or
regulations for rare and
endangered species.
Section 40
M1-17
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 3.1 (Continued) Applications Matrix Summarizing Intended and Potential Uses of the
DOE Graded Approach
APPLICATIONS INTENDED / POTENTIAL USE CONSIDERATIONS
Types of Exposure
Chronic The methodology assumes
chronic exposure and equilibrium
conditions.
Acute The methodology is not intended
to be used for assessing acute
exposures. The models and
assumptions used in the graded
approach assume equilibrium
conditions.
Accidents Could be used to provide an
indication of long-term "recovery"
or health of the population over
time following an accident.
Equations and models used
within the graded approach are
technically sound for this
application.
Accidents typically result in short-
term, acute exposures for which
the methodology is not intended.
However, it can be applied for
assessing long-term exposures
due to accidents.
Types of Environments
Fresh water, coastal, and marine
environments
The methodology is intended to
be applied to fresh water
environments, and can be
applied to coastal and marine
environments.
Care must be taken when
selecting parameter values (e.g.,
receptor lumped parameters; Kd
values), as fresh water, coastal,
and marine equilibrium chemistry
differ considerably.
Terrestrial environments The methodology is intended to
be applied to terrestrial
environments.
Compliance / Impact Assessment
Demonstration that DOE activities
are in compliance with biota dose
limits
This is a principal DOE
application of the graded
approach.
M1-18
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 3.1 (Continued) Applications Matrix Summarizing Intended and Potential Uses of the
DOE Graded Approach
APPLICATIONS INTENDED / POTENTIAL USE CONSIDERATIONS
Compliance / Impact Assessment (Continued)
National Environmental Policy
Act (NEPA)
The graded approach could be
coupled with predictive dispersion
codes that model a facility’s
effluents prior to construction, to
estimate doses to biota in the
Environmental Impact Statement.
C Comparison of alternatives
C Screen for issues needing
analysis
C Defining significance criteria
C Mitigation action plan
Effects and assessment
endpoints selected for use in the
biota dose evaluation should be
relevant to the management
goals of the study.
Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and
Liability Act (CERCLA)
Screening for potential
radiological impacts within an
ecological risk assessment.
C Remedial Investigation/
Feasibility Study (RI/FS)
C Engineering Evaluation/
Cost Analysis (EE/CA)
Effects and assessment
endpoints selected for use in the
biota dose evaluation should be
relevant to the management
goals of the study.
Natural Resource Damage Screening assessments. Effects and assessment
Assessments (NRDA) endpoints selected for use in the
biota dose evaluation should be
relevant to the management
goals of the study.
Decommissioning Could be used to evaluate doses
to biota, and to predict future
doses to biota, associated with
pre- and post- site or facility
decommissioning activities.
Effects and assessment
endpoints selected for use in the
biota dose evaluation should be
relevant to the management
goals of the study.
Resource Conservation and C Mixing zone definition Effects and assessment
Recovery Act (RCRA) C Alternative concentration
limits
endpoints selected for use in the
biota dose evaluation should be
relevant to the management
goals of the study.
M1-19
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 3.1 (Continued) Applications Matrix Summarizing Intended and Potential Uses of the
DOE Graded Approach
Section 41
APPLICATIONS INTENDED / POTENTIAL USE CONSIDERATIONS
Compliance / Impact Assessment (Continued)
Clean Water Act Mixing zone assessments. Effects and assessment
endpoints selected for use in the
biota dose evaluation should be
relevant to the management
goals of the study.
As mentioned earlier, the principal driver and basis of need for developing the graded approach
was to provide DOE field and program elements with methods for demonstrating compliance
with DOE biota dose limits and recommendations for radiological protection of the environment.
Thus, many of the decisions that are traditionally made when conducting a case-specific
assessment (e.g., choice of indicator receptors; defining receptor exposure profiles; selection of
effects endpoints) were made at a programmatic level and incorporated into the screening
phase of the graded approach a priori. For example, the thresholds for adverse effects were
set at the recommended limits for protection of natural populations of biota. Those are the
appropriate effects levels for demonstrating protection with DOE requirements and
recommendations for the protection of the environment from ionizing radiation (Module 1,
Section 1.2). If the graded approach is used for other purposes (e.g., Table 3.1), then the
programmatic objectives and the methods should be reviewed and discussed with the relevant
decision makers and stakeholders, preferably via the Data Quality Objectives (DQO) process
(Bilyard et al. 1997) to ensure that the results obtained through application of the graded
approach will support the management goals and objectives of the environmental assessment.
3.1 Evaluating Doses to Individual Organisms
The equations and models used within the graded approach for estimating the dose per unit
concentration of radionuclides in environmental media and for deriving the BCGs are also
applicable to individual organisms. However, there are questions concerning the applicability of
the biota dose limits to individual organisms. While the biota dose limits presented in Module 1,
Section 1.1 were derived based on dose-response information for the most radiosensitive of all
species studied, and taking into account the most radiosensitive life stages, the question of
whether these dose limits can be applied to protection of individual members of a species, in
contrast to protection of populations of species, requires further consideration. That is, for
individual plants and animals, especially threatened and endangered species, the health effects
of concern could be different from the effects of concern in protection of populations.
The application of safety factors to these dose limits is one approach that has been used in
evaluating doses to individual organisms (e.g., for culturally valued species). Use of safety
M1-20
DOE-STD-1153-2002
factors, appropriate default parameter values, maximum radionuclide concentrations in
environmental media, and 100 percent organism residence time and exposure are factors to
consider in the application of the graded approach for evaluating doses to individuals. Refer to
Module 2, Section 8 for a more detailed discussion on this issue. Specific cases where
evaluation of individual organisms may be needed are discussed below.
3.1.1 Threatened and Endangered Species
Section 42
Care must be taken by the user if the graded approach is applied in an evaluation of potential
radiological impacts to endangered, threatened, rare, or otherwise sensitive species of plants
and animals managed under the Federal Endangered Species Act or similar state laws or
regulations pertaining to rare or endangered species (Endangered Species Act, 16 USC 1531
et seq.). It is the users responsibility to select effects and assessment endpoints, and the
required input parameter values that reflect actual or expected exposure profiles, for the
individuals being evaluated. Protection of endangered species should be performed under the
provisions of the applicable Federal and/or state statutes or regulations for rare and
endangered species.
3.1.2 Commercially and Culturally Valued Species
Care must be taken by the user if the graded approach is applied in an evaluation of potential
radiological imacts to these categories of species. These would include species that are
routinely harvested for their economic value (e.g., salmon) or their cultural value (e.g., medicinal
plants used by Native Americans). One issue is whether or not these species should be
evaluated at the individual or the population level. It is the users responsibility to select effects
and assessment endpoints, and the required input parameter values that reflect actual or
expected exposure profiles, for the individuals being evaluated.
3.2 Evaluating Doses to Aquatic Plants
Available information about the effects of ionizing radiation on aquatic plants does not appear to
be adequate to characterize their sensitivity to ionizing radiation, or to establish defensible
recommendations (i.e., in the form of dose standards or criteria) for allowable exposures of
populations or individuals. However, regarding this technical standard, indirect means can
provide a general qualitative indication of the effects to aquatic plants relative to effects on
other organisms. In general, one would expect substantially lower radiosensitivity in higher
plants in comparison to the most sensitive birds, fishes and mammals (Whicker and Schultz
1982; Whicker 1997). Therefore, an evaluation using this technical standard that demonstrates
protection of aquatic and riparian animals should provide an indication that aquatic plants are
also likely protected. Alternatively, appropriate bioaccumulation factors (Bivs) for aquatic plants
could be used in the appropriate aquatic system spreadsheets to calculate BCGs for aquatic
plants. Refer to Module 2, Section 2.3, and Module 3, Section 3.2.1, for guidance in this area.
M1-21
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3.3 Experimental Facilities
The methods in this technical standard are not directly intended to be applied to properly
permitted experimental facilities that expose biota to ionizing radiation without releasing
materials to the environment (e.g., particle beam accelerators). Although the operation of such
facilities may be considered to be “routine,” any inadvertent exposure of biota as a result of
such operations should have been addressed in the operating permit, precluding any need to
apply the methods described herein. Additionally, any such exposures would be localized, and
would thus be unlikely to affect substantial populations of any species that this technical
standard addresses. Refer to Module 2, Section 2.4 for detailed considerations and methods
for evaluating potential impacts to biota around accelerators or other sources of direct radiation.
Section 43
3.4 Hazardous Chemicals and Industrial Hazards
The methods in this technical standard are not appropriate for evaluating potential impacts on
biota from hazardous chemicals or industrial-type hazards, including noise and traffic.
3.5 Frequency of Conducting Evaluations
Dose evaluations for aquatic and terrestrial biota shall be conducted annually in conjunction
with the preparation of annual site environmental reports that are required under DOE Orders
5400.1 and 5400.5. More frequent evaluations could be required at the direction of DOE’s
Office of Environment, Safety and Health (EH).
M1-22
Yes
No
DOE-STD-1153-2002
4 Step-by-Step Implementation of the Graded Approach
Here we present an overview of the complete process for implementing the graded approach.
This section is provided to help orient you to the step-by-step guidance corresponding to each
phase of the graded approach which follows in Sections 5 - 8 of this Module. A flowchart
showing how to progress through each phase of the graded approach, and the components of
each phase, is provided in Figure 4.1. Refer to this figure as you proceed through the step-by
step guidance presented in subsequent sections. References to more comprehensive
guidance (presented in Module 2 of this technical standard) are provided throughout the step
by-step guidance. Example applications of the graded approach, using actual DOE site data,
are presented in Section 9 of this Module.
Figure 4.1 Flowchart Illustrating Step-by-Step Guidance for Progressing Through the DOE
Graded Approach. Section numbers within this technical standard corresponding
to each phase are highlighted for reference.
• Consider sources, receptors and
routes of exposure
• Define the area of evaluation
• Assemble radionuclide concentration
data for each medium
• Compare maximum radionuclide
concentration data with generic
BCGs. Sum all fractions for each
radionuclide and medium
Is sum of
fractions < 1.0?
Evaluation is
complete.
Document
rationale and
results.
Proceed to
ANALYSIS
PHASE.
Yes
No
D
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a
A
ss
em
b
ly
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as
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(6
)
M1-23
DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-24
Yes
No
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Site-Specific Biota Dose Assessment
• Consider use of available biota tissue data
• Assemble a biota dose assessment team
• Review requirements and assumptions
• Design and conduct the biota dose assessment
• Problem formulation
• Analysis
• Risk characterization
Document
rationale and
results.
Site-Specific Analysis
• Identify media and nuclide-specific limiting organism
types
• Consider correction factor for exposure area or receptor
residence time
• For riparian and terrestrial animals, review and select
parameters contributing to internal dose (e.g., body
mass; ingestion and inhalation rates; biological decay
and f1 values) appropriate for site-specific receptors
• Use site-specific parameters to generate site-specific
BCGs
• Compare radionuclide concentration data with site-
specific BCGs. Sum all fractions for each radionuclide
and medium
Evaluation is
complete.
Document
rationale and
results.
Is sum of
fractions < 1.0?
Yes
No
A
n
al
ys
is
P
h
as
e
(7
)
M1-25
DOE-STD-1153-2002
4.1 Parameter Values that Can be Modified in the Graded Approach
Section 44
DOE's three-phased approach is designed to guide you from an initial conservative evaluation
using general screening to, if needed, a more rigorous analysis using site-specific information.
The amount of effort required for your biota dose evaluation and the information needed on
site-specific conditions and receptors increases as you progress through the three phases of
the graded approach, particularly during the analysis phase. The result will be a set of less
conservative, more realistic site-representative BCGs. Table 4.1 provides a general summary
of parameter values that can be modified or applied corresponding to each phase of the graded
approach. Use this table as a reference when progressing through the step-by-step guidance
provided in subsequent sections of this Module.
Table 4.1 Summary of Parameter Values that Can, with Technical Justification, be Modified
Corresponding to Each Phase of the Graded Approach
Phase Parameters1
Data Assembly •
•
Size of evaluation area
Radionuclide concentrations in environmental media
General Screening • Initial general screening using maximum radionuclide
concentrations: No parameter modifications are allowed
Analysis:
Site-Specific
Screening
•
•
•
Use of mean radionuclide concentrations, taking into account time
dependence and spatial extent of contamination, may be
considered
Site-specific lumped parameter values in place of default values
used in the general screening phase
Sediment Kd values may be modified, with technical justification,
for aquatic system evaluations where only water or only sediment
concentration data are available for the screening process
Site-Specific
Analysis
•
•
A correction factor for exposure area or receptor residence time
for all organism types may be considered
For riparian and terrestrial animals:
- Food source Biv value for riparian and terrestrial animals
- Body mass
- Uptake fraction of radionuclide ingested/absorbed (f1)
- Biological elimination rate constant of radionuclide exiting the
organism (λ bio)
M1-26
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 4.1 (Continued) Summary of Parameter Values that Can, with Technical Justification,
be Modified Corresponding to Each Phase of the Graded Approach
Phase Parameters1
- Food intake rate and supporting parameters
- Soil intake rate and supporting parameters
- Inhalation rate and supporting parameters
- Soil inhalation rate and supporting parameters
- Water consumption rate
- Maximum life span
- Allometric equations provided can be modified
Site-Specific
Biota Dose
Assessment
• Design, collection, and direct analysis of environmental media and
biota
1 The RAD-BCG Calculator provides the capabilities to modify the dose limits for aquatic and terrestrial organisms, to
modify the RBE weighting factor for alpha emitters, and to de-select inclusion of energies for progeny of chain-
decaying nuclides with regard to internal dose conversion factors. These default values shall be used in dose
evaluations conducted for DOE sites. See Module 2, Section 7 for a detailed discussion on the selection of the RBE
weighting factor for alpha emitters.
4.2 Use of the RAD-BCG Calculator
The RAD-BCG Calculator is a companion tool to the technical standard. It contains a series of
electronic spreadsheets for use in:
• entering site data on radionuclide concentrations in soil, sediment, or water,
• comparing radionuclide-specific data with radionuclide-specific BCGs,
Section 45
• determining if the sum of fractions for all radionuclide data/BCG comparisons is less
than 1.0, and
• when technically justified, modifiying default parameters used in the general screening
phase, and calculating site-specific BCGs using site-specific information representing
the evaluation area and receptors.
A Table of Contents within the RAD-BCG Calculator provides a listing of the spreadsheets and
information text screens, with a brief statement about their application. The contents of the
RAD-BCG Calculator are also provided in Table 4.2.
Within these electronic spreadsheets, several fields (e.g., columns) of cells contain notes,
viewed by placing the cursor over the cell, that provide additional information on the source of
the number of parameter value cited in that cell. The equations used to derive the BCG
calculations and to link values across different spreadsheets are presented in a separate
M1-27
DOE-STD-1153-2002
protected spreadsheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator. The equations and assumptions used
to derive the BCGs are described in detail within Module 3 of this technical standard.
4.3 The Biota Dose Assessment Committee
The Biota Dose Assessment Committee (BDAC), chaired by DOE’s Air, Water and Radiation
Division (EH-412), is available as a resource to answer questions concerning the graded
approach for evaluating radiation doses to biota. The BDAC is an approved technical
standards topical committee organized under
the DOE Technical Standards Program. As
stated in its charter, the purpose of the The BDAC is available as a resource to DOE
BDAC is (a) to assist, consistent with DOE program and field elements
needs, in developing and promoting technical
standards and associated guidance for DOE- The Department’s Biota Dose Assessment
Committee is available as a technical resource wide applications in assessing radiation dose
and advisory group concerning evaluation of to biota, (b) to serve as a major forum within
radiation doses to biota. Questions concerning DOE for obtaining technical assistance,
the application of the DOE graded approach discussing technical issues, and sharing
should be coordinated through DOE’s Air,
lessons learned regarding biota dose
Water and Radiation Division (EH-412).
standards and assessment methods, and (c)
to serve as a technical resource and advisory
group for DOE program and field elements
regarding site-specific biota dose assessments. The BDAC web site
(http://homer.ornl.gov/oepa/public/bdac) provides internet access to guidance, methods, and
related tools associated with this technical standard; links to related web sites also are
provided. Specific questions concerning the guidance and methods contained in this technical
standard, and requests for consultation with the BDAC Core Team, should be coordinated
through EH-412 (contact Stephen Domotor, 202-586-0871, Stephen.Domotor@eh.doe.gov).
M1-28
mailto:Stephen.Domotor@eh.doe.gov
http://homer.ornl.gov/oepa/public/bdac
DOE-STD-1153-2002
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i/g
)
un
its
in
th
e
bi
ot
a
do
se
e
va
lu
at
io
n.
P
ro
vi
de
s
a
fe
at
ur
e
to
r
es
et
a
ll
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
to
th
ei
r
de
fa
ul
t v
al
ue
s.
R
es
to
re
in
iti
al
d
ef
au
lt
pa
ra
m
et
er
s;
s
el
ec
t u
ni
ts
A
qu
at
ic
a
nd
T
er
re
st
ria
l
S
ys
te
m
D
at
a
E
nt
ry
/B
C
G
W
or
ks
he
et
s
P
ro
vi
de
s
th
e
en
vi
ro
nm
en
ta
l s
ys
te
m
d
at
a
en
tr
y/
B
C
G
w
or
ks
he
et
fo
r
aq
ua
tic
s
ys
te
m
e
va
lu
at
io
ns
a
nd
te
rr
es
tr
ia
l s
ys
te
m
e
va
lu
at
io
ns
,
re
sp
ec
tiv
el
y.
A
llo
w
s
th
e
us
er
to
e
nt
er
d
at
a
on
r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e
co
nc
en
tr
at
io
ns
in
s
oi
l,
se
di
m
en
t a
nd
w
at
er
.
Li
st
s
th
e
B
C
G
s
fo
r
ea
ch
ra
di
on
uc
lid
e.
C
al
cu
la
te
s
th
e
su
m
o
f f
ra
ct
io
ns
fo
r
al
l r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e
da
ta
/B
C
G
c
om
pa
ris
on
s
an
d
in
di
ca
te
s
if
th
is
s
um
o
f f
ra
ct
io
ns
is
le
ss
th
an
1
.0
.
Li
st
s
th
e
lim
iti
ng
o
rg
an
is
m
ty
pe
r
es
po
ns
ib
le
fo
r
th
e
B
C
G
ci
te
d,
w
hi
ch
r
ef
er
en
ce
s
th
e
or
ga
ni
sm
ty
pe
s
pr
ea
ds
he
et
w
he
re
de
fa
ul
t p
ar
am
et
er
s
ca
n
be
m
od
ifi
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-s
pe
ci
fic
v
al
ue
s.
S
ite
r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e
co
nc
en
tr
at
io
n
da
ta
fo
r
so
il,
s
ed
im
en
t,
an
d
w
at
er
M1-29
DOE-STD-1153-2002
S
p
re
ad
sh
ee
t
T
yp
e
S
p
re
ad
sh
ee
Section 47
t
T
it
le
C
o
n
te
n
t
D
es
cr
ip
ti
o
n
P
ar
am
et
er
s
T
h
at
C
an
B
e
M
o
d
if
ie
d
S
u
p
p
o
rt
in
g
P
ar
am
et
er
an
d
R
ef
er
en
ce
S
p
re
ad
sh
ee
ts
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
C
on
ta
in
s
th
e
ba
si
c
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
us
ed
in
th
e
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
of
w
at
er
a
nd
s
ed
im
en
t B
C
G
s
fo
r
aq
ua
tic
b
io
ta
.
C
on
ta
in
s
al
l o
f t
he
s
am
e
in
fo
rm
at
io
n
an
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
as
is
p
re
se
nt
ed
in
M
od
ul
e
1,
T
ab
le
7
.1
.
B
iv ;
c
or
re
ct
io
n
fa
ct
or
fo
r
ex
po
su
re
a
re
a
an
d
tim
e
T
er
re
st
ria
l
P
la
nt
C
on
ta
in
s
th
e
ba
si
c
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
us
ed
in
th
e
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
of
w
at
er
a
nd
s
oi
l B
C
G
s
fo
r
te
rr
es
tr
ia
l p
la
nt
s.
C
on
ta
in
s
al
l o
f t
he
s
am
e
in
fo
rm
at
io
n
an
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
as
is
pr
es
en
te
d
in
M
od
ul
e
1,
T
ab
le
7
.3
.
B
iv ;
c
or
re
ct
io
n
fa
ct
or
fo
r
ex
po
su
re
a
re
a
an
d
tim
e
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
C
on
ta
in
s
th
e
ba
si
c
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
us
ed
in
th
e
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
of
w
at
er
a
nd
s
ed
im
en
t B
C
G
s
fo
r
rip
ar
ia
n
an
im
al
s.
C
on
ta
in
s
al
l o
f t
he
s
am
e
in
fo
rm
at
io
n
an
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
as
is
p
re
se
nt
ed
in
M
od
ul
e
1,
T
ab
le
s
7.
2,
7
.5
, a
nd
7
.6
.
W
ith
"
lu
m
pe
d
B
C
G
s"
s
el
ec
te
d:
l
um
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
; c
or
re
ct
io
n
fa
ct
or
s
fo
r
ex
po
su
re
ar
ea
a
nd
ti
m
e;
w
ith
"
al
lo
m
et
ric
B
C
G
s"
se
le
ct
ed
: c
or
re
ct
io
n
fa
ct
or
s
fo
r
ex
po
su
re
ar
ea
a
nd
ti
m
e;
fr
ac
tio
n
of
in
ta
ke
r
et
ai
ne
d;
bi
ol
og
ic
al
d
ec
ay
c
on
st
an
t;
al
l a
llo
m
et
ric
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
an
d
eq
ua
tio
ns
T
er
re
st
ria
l
A
ni
m
al
C
on
ta
in
s
th
e
ba
si
c
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
us
ed
in
th
e
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
of
w
at
er
a
nd
s
oi
l B
C
G
s
fo
r
te
rr
es
tr
ia
l a
ni
m
al
s.
C
on
ta
in
s
al
l o
f t
he
s
am
e
in
fo
rm
at
io
n
an
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
as
is
p
re
se
nt
ed
in
M
od
ul
e
1,
T
ab
le
s
7.
4,
7
.7
, a
nd
7
.8
.
W
ith
"
lu
m
pe
d
B
C
G
s"
s
el
ec
te
d:
l
um
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
; c
or
re
ct
io
n
fa
ct
or
s
fo
r
ex
po
su
re
ar
ea
a
nd
ti
m
e;
w
ith
"
al
lo
m
et
ric
B
C
G
s"
se
le
ct
ed
: c
or
re
ct
io
n
fa
ct
or
s
fo
r
ex
po
su
re
ar
ea
a
nd
ti
m
e;
fr
ac
tio
n
of
in
ta
ke
r
et
ai
ne
d;
bi
ol
og
ic
al
d
ec
ay
c
on
st
an
t;
al
l a
llo
m
et
ric
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
an
d
eq
ua
tio
ns
S
u
p
p
o
rt
in
g
S
p
re
ad
sh
ee
ts
D
os
e
F
ac
to
rs
an
d
C
om
m
on
P
ar
am
et
er
s
C
on
ta
in
s
in
te
rn
al
d
os
e
co
nv
er
si
on
fa
ct
or
s,
a
nd
ex
te
rn
al
d
os
e
co
nv
er
si
on
fa
ct
or
s
in
s
oi
l,
se
di
m
en
t a
nd
w
at
er
fo
r
ea
ch
r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e.
C
on
ta
in
s
se
di
m
en
t a
nd
so
il
m
os
t p
ro
ba
bl
e
K
d
va
lu
es
u
se
d
as
d
ef
au
lt
pa
ra
m
et
er
s,
a
nd
p
ro
vi
de
s
th
ei
r
ra
ng
es
.
C
on
ta
in
s
al
l
of
th
e
sa
m
e
in
fo
rm
at
io
n
an
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
as
is
pr
es
en
te
d
in
M
od
ul
e
1,
T
ab
le
s
6.
5
an
d
7.
9.
M
os
t p
ro
ba
bl
e
K
d
va
lu
es
; r
ad
ia
tio
n
w
ei
gh
tin
g
fa
ct
or
fo
r
al
ph
a
em
itt
er
s;
in
cl
us
io
n
of
e
ne
Section 48
rg
ie
s
fo
r
pr
og
en
y
of
c
ha
in
-
de
ca
yi
ng
n
uc
lid
es
w
ith
r
eg
ar
d
to
in
te
rn
al
do
se
c
on
ve
rs
io
n
fa
ct
or
s
D
ec
ay
C
ha
in
s
C
on
ta
in
s
de
ca
y
ch
ai
ns
(
bo
th
w
ith
a
nd
w
ith
ou
t
pr
og
en
y)
fo
r
ea
ch
r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e.
T
hi
s
sp
re
ad
sh
ee
t i
s
no
t p
ro
vi
de
d
in
th
e
te
ch
ni
ca
l s
ta
nd
ar
d.
M1-30
DOE-STD-1153-2002
5 Data Assembly Phase
The DOE graded approach for evaluating radiation doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota was
designed to minimize the need for additional data collection above and beyond environmental
radionuclide concentration data typically available through routine environmental monitoring and
surveillance programs. The data assembly phase encompasses three steps: (1) considering
the sources of radioactivity, the key receptors, and the routes of exposure to these receptors;
(2) defining the geographic area to be evaluated; and (3) assembling and organizing data on
radionuclide concentrations in water, sediments, and soil for use in the general screening
phase, and for use in the analysis phase, if needed. Each of the three steps are
interdependent and should be considered collectively when implementing the data assembly
phase.
5.1 Step 1: Consider the Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure
It is expected that general knowledge concerning sources, receptors, and routes of exposure
will be sufficient for defining the geographic area of evaluation when implementing the general
screening phase of the graded approach. However, more detailed information regarding these
elements may need to be considered as you progress through the graded approach. For
example, if the BCGs for the general screening evaluation are exceeded, you may wish to
refine your input data for site-specific screening (e.g., using mean radionuclide concentration
data in place of maximum values; re-defining the geographic area of evaluation). Alternatively,
you may wish to move to the site-specific analysis component of the graded approach, which
may require consideration of internal dose parameters relating to site-specific receptors and
routes of exposure. Detailed guidance on consideration of sources, receptors, and routes of
exposure, for application in defining the area of evaluation and for use in the analysis phase, is
provided in Module 2, Section 2.
5.2 Step 2: Define Your Area of Evaluation
It is necessary to determine the spatial
extent over which the graded approach will
be applied. The assumptions regarding
sources, receptors, and routes of exposure
used in the development of the graded
approach provide for conservative BCGs. In
the derivation of the screening approach, the
source medium to which the organisms are
exposed is assumed to be infinite in extent
and to contain uniform concentrations of
radionuclides. The organisms are also
assumed to be resident in the contaminated
area (e.g., exposed to contaminated media)
100 percent of the time. Given these
Three conditions should be present for a
dose evaluation:
C Radioactivity should be present or
anticipated to be present in the
environment as a result of DOE activities
C Receptors (i.e., plants and/or animals)
should be present in the vicinity of those
sources
C Routes of exposure should exist from
those sources to the receptors
M1-31
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Section 49
assumptions, the first approach shall be to use maximum radionuclide concentration data
applicable to your geographic area of interest (e.g., the entire site). A review of your effluent
monitoring and environmental surveillance program design and resultant data should provide
insights on sampling locations yielding the highest radionuclide concentrations.
5.3 Step 3: Assemble and Organize Data on Radionuclide Concentrations in
Environmental Media
The next step is to collect and organize relevant data on radionuclide concentrations in
environmental media. Radionuclide concentrations in surface water and/or sediment and in soil
are needed for implementing the graded approach. Acceptable sources of data include but are
not limited to: Annual Site Environmental Reports, effluent monitoring and environmental
surveillance data, remediation data, and data from special site-specific studies (e.g., ecological
studies conducted for other purposes). The data should be organized by location and medium,
and be applicable to the geographic area of evaluation identified in Step 2 above. Locations
may be defined by management and administrative characteristics (e.g., remediation sites;
operations areas; operable units), physical characteristics (e.g., watershed; pond; stream), or
ecological characteristics (e.g., corresponding to habitat types). Maximum radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media shall be used in the initial application of the general
screening phase to provide the most conservative evaluation.
5.3.1 Aquatic System Considerations
If you are conducting an aquatic system evaluation, note that use of radionuclide concentration
data from co-located surface water and sediment samples is preferred and will result in a less
conservative, more realistic evaluation. A mix of data from water and/or sediment samples
collected from different locations within the vicinity of one another may be used, with
justification. Note that where co-located samples are not available, only water or only sediment
data may be used, but will result in a significantly more conservative evaluation. This is
because the BCGs derived using individual water or sediment values involve the use of a
conservative sediment distribution coefficient (Kd) to calculate the environmental media
radionuclide concentration and dose contribution of either the missing water or sediment
component.
5.3.2 Terrestrial System Considerations
If you are conducting a terrestrial system evaluation, you should consider the types of receptors
resident in your area of evaluation and the appropriateness of your soil samples with regard to
these receptors. For example, surface soil samples may not be representative of potential
radionuclide exposure to deep-rooted plant receptors. Refer to Module 2, Section 5 for detailed
guidance in this area. Also note that if you have a water body in your evaluation area, you must
also conduct an aquatic system evaluation.
M1-32
DOE-STD-1153-2002
6 General Screening Phase
A major goal of the general screening phase is to provide a method that allows you to easily
apply data on radionuclide concentrations in an environmental medium to evaluate compliance
with the dose limits for biota. In the general screening phase, data on radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media are compared with a set of generic BCGs. Each
radionuclide-specific BCG represents the limiting radionuclide concentration in environmental
media which would not result in DOE’s established or recommended dose limits for biota to be
exceeded. These limiting radionuclide concentrations, or BCGs, are presented in Tables 6.1
through 6.4. These "look-up" tables allow for quick, easy comparisons of radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media with the BCGs. Guidance on using these look-up tables
is provided below.
Section 50
6.1 Step 1: Compare Data on Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental
Media with Generic BCGs Contained in Look-up Tables
A sum of fractions approach is used in comparing data
on measured radionuclide concentrations in Sum of Fractions Rule
environmental media with the BCGs contained in the
When multiple radionuclides are look-up tables. That is, when multiple radionuclides
present in multiple environmental are present in multiple environmental media, the sum
media, the sum of fractions rule shall of fractions rule shall be applied to account for all
be applied to account for all sources
sources of exposure. Hence, the sum of the ratios of
of exposure.
the measured concentration of each radionuclide to its
corresponding BCG for each medium shall then be
summed across media, and the total sum of fractions
shall not exceed 1.0.
For each environmental medium, for radionuclides A, B, ... N, with concentrations CA, CB ...CN,
and corresponding screening BCG values BCGA, BCGB, ... BCGN, this relationship for aquatic
and terrestrial system evaluations is as follows:
• Aquatic System Evaluation:
CA CB CN CA CB CN
% %...% water % % %...% sediment<1.0
BCGA BCGB BCGN BCGA BCGB BCGN
• Terrestrial System Evaluation:
CA CB CN CA CB CN
% %...% water % % %...% soil<1.0
BCGA BCGB BCGN BCGA BCGB BCGN
M1-33
DOE-STD-1153-2002
If the sum of fractions
(the summed ratios
between the
radionuclide
concentrations in
environmental media
and the radionuclide-
specific BCGs) is less
than 1.0, the dose to an
aquatic or terrestrial
receptor is below the
biota dose limit, and you
have passed the
general screening
evaluation. Proceed to
Section 8, Documenting
Your Biota Dose
Evaluation Results. If
the sum is greater than
1.0, further investigation
is required (e.g.,
initiating site-specific
screening or analysis).
Getting Started with the RAD-BCG Calculator
Enable Macros. Click on “Enable Macros” when prompted.
Select your units. You may work in either SI Units (e.g., Bq/kg) or
Special Units (e.g., pCi/g). Select your units in the “Initial Conditions”
spreadsheet of the RAD-BCG calculator.
Enter your data. The RAD-BCG Calculator contains aquatic and
terrestrial system data entry/BCG worksheets. These environmental
data/BCG worksheets allow you to enter your data on radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media, automatically calculate the sum
of fractions, and determine whether the sum of fractions is greater or less
than 1.0.
When entering data for an aquatic system evaluation, be sure to select
“water,” “sediment,” or “both,” corresponding to the data you are working
with.
The terrestrial system data entry/BCG worksheet provides a feature that
allows you to import water data used in the aquatic evaluation, as
appropriate.
Prepare for General Screening. To prepare for general screening, be
sure that the “lumped BCGs” button is selected within the riparian and
terrestrial animal spreadsheets.
Using the Sum of Fractions Rule: Terrestrial System Evaluation
Maximum radionuclide concentrations for water and soil collected within the evaluation area and available
through the existing site environmental surveillance program were summarized. Maximum radionuclide
concentrations for Cs-137 and Sr-90 in soil were 1.21 and 1.30 pCi/g, respectively. Maximum
radionuclide concentrations for Cs-137 and Sr-90 in water were 49.6 and 84.5 pCi/L, respectively.
Applying the sum of fractions rule, and using the BCG values listed in Table 6.4, one obtains the
following:
Section 51
1.21 1.30
% ' 1.2E&01soil: 20 20
49.6 84.5 water: % ' 1.63E&03
6E%05 5E%04
1.2E-01 + 1.77E-03 = 0.12
(soil sum of fractions) (water sum of fractions) (total sum of fractions)
Conclusion: Because 0.12 is less than 1.0, the dose to a terrestrial receptor does not exceed the
recommended dose limits for protection of populations of terrestrial plants and animals. Note that the soil
medium provides most of the contribution to dose.
M1-34
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Using the Sum of Fractions Rule: Aquatic System Evaluation
Maximum radionuclide concentrations for co-located water and sediment samples collected within
the evaluation area and available through the existing site environmental surveillance program
were summarized. Maximum radionuclide concentrations for water and sediment are:
Sr-90 Cs-137
water (pCi/L)
1.5E-03 ND
sediment (pCi/g)
3.8 7.9
Applying the sum of fractions rule, and using the BCG values listed in Table 6.2, one obtains the
following:
1.5E&03 0 (sum of fractions for radionuclides in water) % ' 5.0E&06
3E%02 4E%01
3.8 7.9
% ' 8.96E&03 (sum of fractions for radionuclides in sediment)
6E%02 3E%03
(total sum of fractions for radionuclides 5.0E&06 % 8.96E&03 ' 8.96E&03
in water and sediment)
Conclusion: Dose to an aquatic receptor does not exceed the recommended dose limits for
aquatic or riparian animals.
6.1.1 Aquatic System Considerations
In situations where co-located water and
sediment data are not available, in the
general screening phase you must estimate
the missing radionuclide concentration data
through the use of “most probable”
radionuclide-specific Kd values.
Radionuclide-specific most probable Kd
values are provided in Table 6.5 of this
Module and in the Dose Factors and
Common Parameters spreadsheet of the
RAD-BCG Calculator. The radionuclide
concentration data estimated for the missing
water or sediment medium is then used along
Estimating Radionuclide Concentration
Data in Situations where Co-Located
Water and Sediment Data are not
Available
The RAD-BCG Calculator uses a “most
probable” default Kd value to automatically
calculate the missing radionuclide
concentration, and then automatically
enters it into the aquatic system data
entry/BCG worksheet.
M1-35
DOE-STD-1153-2002
with the radionuclide concentration data for the available medium in the sum of fractions
calculation as described previously.
Judgement should be applied in determining if measured radionuclide concentration data for
water and sediment media can be considered as originating from co-located water and
sediment samples. If measured radionuclide concentration data for water and sediment media
are only available from separate locations, you should calculate the missing radionuclide
concentration data for each missing medium, and apply the approach that results in the highest
(e.g., most conservative) sum of fractions in your biota dose evaluation. Equations for
estimating radionuclide concentration data in situations where co-located water and sediment
data are not available are provided in Module 3, Section 3.2.3. If the sum of fractions is less
than 1.0, the dose to an aquatic receptor is below the biota dose limit, and you have passed the
general screening evaluation. Proceed to Section 8, Documenting Your Biota Dose Evaluation
Results. If the sum is greater than 1.0, further investigation is required (e.g., initiating site-
specific screening or analysis).
6.1.2 Dealing with High Background Levels of Naturally Occurring Radionuclides
Section 52
Radiation dose rates at local background reference sites can be used to ensure that the site-
related dose rates represent an actual increase in exposure. If the evaluation area is suspected
or has been documented to have high background levels of naturally occurring radionuclides,
these background levels may be taken into account when determining compliance of DOE
activities with the biota dose limits. For example, this may be a consideration for the two
isotopes of radium (see BCGs for Ra-226 and Ra-228, Tables 6.1 - 6.4). Background levels for
environmental media should be estimated based on data for the same or similar media types in
uncontaminated areas. If the sum of fractions for measured radionuclide concentrations in
media from the contaminated area exceeds 1.0, this sum should be compared with the sum of
fractions calculated using measured radionuclide concentrations in media from the background
area. If the sum of fractions from the contaminated area does not exceed that from the
background area, the contaminated area has passed the screening evaluation. Proceed to
Module 1, Section 8 and document the results of the comparison. If it does exceed the
background sum of fractions, proceed to the next phases of the graded approach. Refer to
Module 2, Section 3.3.1, and Module 2, Section 6.3.1.5 for related guidance on this topic.
M1-36
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
6
.1
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
s
(B
C
G
s)
fo
r
W
at
er
a
nd
S
ed
im
en
t (
in
S
I U
ni
ts
)
fo
r
U
se
in
A
qu
at
ic
S
ys
te
m
E
va
lu
at
io
ns
.
F
or
u
se
w
ith
r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e
co
nc
en
tr
at
io
ns
fr
om
c
o-
lo
ca
te
d
w
at
er
a
nd
s
ed
im
en
t.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(
w
at
er
),
B
q
/m
3
O
rg
an
is
m
R
es
p
o
n
si
b
le
f
o
r
L
im
it
in
g
D
o
se
in
W
at
er
B
C
G
(
se
d
im
en
t)
, B
q
/k
g
O
rg
an
is
m
R
es
p
o
n
si
b
le
f
o
r
L
im
it
in
g
D
o
se
in
S
ed
im
en
t
24
1 A
m
2E
+
04
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
14
4 C
e
6E
+
04
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
13
5 C
s
2E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
06
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
13
7 C
s
2E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
60
C
o
1E
+
05
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
15
4 E
u
8E
+
05
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
15
5 E
u
1E
+
07
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
06
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
3 H
1E
+
10
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
07
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
12
9 I
1E
+
06
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
06
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
13
1 I
5E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
9 P
u
7E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
22
6 R
a
2E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
4E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
22
8 R
a
1E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
12
5 S
b
1E
+
07
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
90
S
r
1E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
99
T
c
2E
+
07
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
06
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
2 T
h
1E
+
04
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
3 U
7E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
Section 53
A
ni
m
al
23
4 U
7E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
5 U
8E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
8 U
8E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
9E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
65
Z
n
5E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
95
Z
r
3E
+
05
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
9E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
M1-37
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
6
.2
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
s
(B
C
G
s)
fo
r
W
at
er
a
nd
S
ed
im
en
t (
in
S
pe
ci
al
U
ni
ts
)
fo
r
U
se
in
A
qu
at
ic
S
ys
te
m
E
va
lu
at
io
ns
.
F
or
u
se
w
ith
m
ea
su
re
d
ra
di
on
uc
lid
e
co
nc
en
tr
at
io
ns
fr
om
c
o-
lo
ca
te
d
w
at
er
a
nd
s
ed
im
en
t.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(w
at
er
),
p
C
i/L
O
rg
an
is
m
R
es
p
o
n
si
b
le
f
o
r
L
im
it
in
g
D
o
se
in
W
at
er
B
C
G
(s
ed
im
en
t)
,
p
C
i/g
O
rg
an
is
m
R
es
p
o
n
si
b
le
fo
r
L
im
it
in
g
D
o
se
in
S
ed
im
en
t
24
1 A
m
4E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
14
4 C
e
2E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
13
5 C
s
5E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
4E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
13
7 C
s
4E
+
01
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
60
C
o
4E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
15
4 E
u
2E
+
04
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
15
5 E
u
3E
+
05
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
3 H
3E
+
08
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
4E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
12
9 I
4E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
3E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
13
1 I
1E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
9 P
u
2E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
6E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
22
6 R
a
4E
+
00
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
22
8 R
a
3E
+
00
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
9E
+
01
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
12
5 S
b
4E
+
05
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
7E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
90
S
r
3E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
6E
+
02
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
99
T
c
7E
+
05
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
4E
+
04
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
2 T
h
3E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
3 U
2E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
4 U
2E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
5E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
5 U
2E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
4E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
23
8 U
2E
+
02
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
65
Z
n
1E
+
01
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
1E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
95
Z
r
7E
+
03
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
2E
+
03
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
M1-38
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
6
.3
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
s
(B
C
G
s)
fo
r
W
at
er
a
nd
S
oi
l (
in
S
I U
ni
ts
)
fo
r
U
se
in
T
er
re
st
ria
l S
ys
te
m
E
va
lu
at
io
ns
.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(
w
at
er
),
B
q
/m
3
O
rg
an
is
m
R
es
p
o
n
si
b
le
f
o
r
L
im
it
in
g
D
o
se
in
W
at
er
B
C
G
(s
o
il)
,
B
q
/k
g
O
rg
an
is
m
R
es
p
o
n
si
b
le
f
o
r
L
im
it
in
g
D
o
se
in
S
o
il
Section 54
24
1 A
m
7E
+
06
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
14
4 C
e
1E
+
08
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
5E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
13
5 C
s
3E
+
08
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
1E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
13
7 C
s
2E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
8E
+
02
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
60
C
o
4E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
3E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
15
4 E
u
8E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
5E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
15
5 E
u
1E
+
09
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
6E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
3 H
9E
+
09
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
6E
+
06
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
12
9 I
2E
+
08
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
13
1 I
7E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
3E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
23
9 P
u
7E
+
06
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
22
6 R
a
3E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
03
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
22
8 R
a
3E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
03
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
12
5 S
b
3E
+
08
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
90
S
r
2E
+
06
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
8E
+
02
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
99
T
c
6E
+
08
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
23
2 T
h
2E
+
06
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
6E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
23
3 U
1E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
23
4 U
1E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
23
5 U
2E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
1E
+
05
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
23
8 U
2E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
6E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
65
Z
n
6E
+
06
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
2E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
95
Z
r
8E
+
07
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
4E
+
04
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
M1-39
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
6
.4
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
s
(B
C
G
s)
fo
r
W
at
er
a
nd
S
oi
l (
in
S
pe
ci
al
U
ni
ts
)
fo
r
U
se
in
T
er
re
st
ria
l S
ys
te
m
E
va
lu
at
io
ns
.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(w
at
er
),
p
C
i/L
O
rg
an
is
m
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-41
DOE-STD-1153-2002
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
M1-42
DOE-STD-1153-2002
7 Analysis Phase
The analysis phase of the graded approach contains three increasingly more detailed
components of analysis for evaluating doses to biota: site-specific screening, site-specific
analysis, and site-specific biota dose assessment. In the analysis phase, you are also
increasingly moving away from the default parameters and assumptions used in the general
screening phase of the graded approach. The amount of effort required for your biota dose
evaluation and the information needed about site-specific conditions and receptors increase as
you progress through the three components of the analysis phase. The amount of specialized
assistance (e.g., in health physics, radioecology, and eco-risk assessment) that might be
needed also increases as you progress through the components of the analysis phase. In
return, the result will be a set of less conservative, more realistic and site-representative BCGs.
The rationale for selection of site-specific parameters applied in this phase shall be
sufficiently documented when reporting your biota dose evaluation results. Each of the
three analysis components is described below.
7.1 Analysis Phase - Site-Specific Screening
Site-specific screening allows you
Questions to Consider in Determining Your Path to apply knowledge of site-
Forward in Site-Specific Screening: specific conditions and receptors
in your biota dose evaluation in Can I use mean radionuclide concentrations rather than
place of the default parameter maximum values?
values and assumptions used in
the general screening phase of Does it make sense to adjust or re-define my evaluation
area, using knowledge of the spatio-temporal extent of my the graded approach. For
contamination with respect to receptor habitats? example, use of mean
radionuclide concentrations in Are the "limiting organism types" corresponding to my
place of maximum values, taking media and radionuclides expected to be present in my
evaluation area? into account time dependence
and spatial extent of
Do I have site-representative parameters (e.g., lumped contamination, may be parameters; Bivs; Kds) that can be used in place of default
considered. Parameters values?
representative of site-specific
receptors also may be
considered. These
considerations and their application in site-specific screening are discussed below.
M1-43
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Section 57
7.1.1 Step 1: Assess the Representativeness of Your Input Data on Radionuclide
Concentrations in Environmental Media and the Delineation of Your
Evaluation Area
Spatial and temporal variability relative to the distribution of contamination in the evaluation
area can be taken into account when evaluating doses to biota. Each of the elements presented
below should be considered collectively as you proceed through this step.
7.1.1.1 Consider Using Mean Radionuclide Concentrations
Determine if mean radionuclide concentrations can be used in place of maximum
concentrations. For example, use of mean values is appropriate and permitted in situations
where time-series data are available and of sufficient quality. Spatial variability in the
distribution of contamination can also be taken into account. Note that depending on the
purpose of your application of the graded approach, you may be requested (e.g., by regulators
or stakeholders) to use only maximum radionuclide concentration data rather than mean
values. Detailed guidance on applying spatio-temporal considerations in determining mean
radionuclide concentrations for use in the graded approach is provided in Module 2, Section 3.
7.1.1.2 Consider Refining the Evaluation Area
It may be useful to re-assess your rationale for delineating the evaluation area (e.g., breaking
one large area into several smaller areas) through consideration of the quality and spatio
temporal distribution of radionuclide concentration data, the ecological susceptibility and
habitats of the receptors, and the spatial distribution of contaminants with respect to these
habitats. Refer to Module 2, Section 4 for detailed guidance in this area.
7.1.1.3 Consider Obtaining Additional Radionuclide Concentration Data
Consider collecting additional radionuclide concentration data. For an aquatic system
evaluation, consider using co-located water and sediment data if you have not already done so.
7.1.2 Step 2: Re-Run the Screening Evaluation Using Revised Radionuclide
Concentration Data and/or Evaluation Area
Here you are comparing your refined data on measured radionuclide concentrations
corresponding to your original or re-defined evaluation area, with the generic BCGs. This is
done by re-entering these revised data into the appropriate environmental data/BCG worksheet
in the RAD-BCG Calculator. It is important to note that in this step you have not modified the
initial, generic BCG values. They are the same generic BCGs that are used in the general
screening phase of the graded approach. This step is considered a site-specific screen in that
you are now making site-specific judgements relative to your measured radionuclide
concentration data and your evaluation area. If the sum of fractions is less than 1.0, then you
M1-44
DOE-STD-1153-2002
have passed the site-specific screening evaluation. Proceed to Section 8, Documenting Your
Biota Dose Evaluation Results. If the sum of fractions is greater than 1.0, then continue to
progress through the graded approach.
7.1.3 Step 3: Assess the Representativeness of Default Parameters and Assumptions
Used in Deriving the Generic BCGs; Select Site-Specific Parameters and
Generate Site-Specific BCGs
This step allows you to replace default parameters used in the general screening phase with
site-representative parameters for use in site-specific screening. Each of the elements
presented below should be considered collectively as you proceed through this step.
Section 58
7.1.3.1 Identify Radionuclide-Specific Limiting Medium and Organism Type
Review the radionuclide-specific BCGs used in the
general screening phase of the graded approach. Selecting A Site-Specific Receptor
First, identify the environmental medium and
individual radionuclides from your evaluation that The receptor should be important to
the structure and function of the provide the greatest contribution to potential dose
community. It should: (1) be (e.g., medium concentration: BCG ratios that
expected to receive a comparatively
represent the largest contributors to the sum of high degree of exposure (e.g.,
fractions). Then, for each of these radionuclides, expected to receive a radiation dose
to reproductive tissues which is
relatively high per unit of
identify the limiting organism type from which the
generic BCGs were derived. Limiting organism types
radionuclide present in the corresponding to generic BCGs are listed for each
ecosystem, in comparison to other
radionuclide in Tables 6.1 - 6.4 and in the receptors in the same community);
corresponding RAD-BCG Calculator spreadsheets. If (2) have a comparably high degree
of radiosensitivity (e.g., radiation
effects of concern occur at relatively
you did not conduct a general screen prior to site-
specific screening, go to the organism type table or
low doses, in comparison with other spreadsheet that corresponds to the site-specific
receptors in the same community);
receptor you have chosen to use in your analysis. and (3) exhibit a high degree of
The site-specific receptor you select should be bioaccumulation.
important to the structure and function of the
community, in that protection of this organism within
your evaluation area assures that all other organisms
in your evaluation area are also protected. Some
examples of receptors that could serve as good indicators of radiological impact are provided
for your reference in Module 2, Section 2.1.3.
7.1.3.2 Review and Select Site-Specific Lumped Parameters
The general screening phase uses a conservative default “lumped parameter” in the estimation
of internal dose to an organism. The lumped parameter is based largely on empirical
M1-45
DOE-STD-1153-2002
measurements of radionuclides in biological tissues of organisms collected in contaminated
habitats. In cases where empirical measurements are unavailable or few in number, the
lumped parameter is based on a conservative value derived using uncertainty analysis on the
kinetic/allometric method (see Module 3, Section 3.5). The lumped parameter serves as a
“natural integrator” of internal contamination in that it inherently reflects all pathways of intake
by an organism. Here, in site-specific screening, lumped parameters representative of site-
specific conditions and receptors are used to generate site-specific BCGs in place of the default
lumped parameters that were used in generating the generic BCGs. This site-specific screening
results in a less conservative, more realistic evaluation of potential doses to biota for your area
of evaluation.
Section 59
The initial values of the lumped parameters were specifically chosen to produce conservative
(e.g., highly protective) BCGs. It is recognized that actual lumped parameters for a single
radionuclide may range over several orders of magnitude, depending upon biotic and abiotic
features of the environment. In step 3 you review the default lumped parameters used in
deriving the BCGs for the appropriate organism type. The default lumped parameter values
(and other input parameters) are contained in a set of organism type tables (Tables 7.1 - 7.4).
The RAD-BCG Calculator contains similar tables which can be easily located (see Module 1,
Section 4). Review and select lumped parameters representative of site-specific conditions and
receptors you have selected for your evaluation area. These site-specific lumped parameters
are entered into the appropriate organism type spreadsheet in the RAD-BCG Calculator and
used to generate site-specific BCGs. Sources for lumped parameter values representative of
your site-specific conditions and receptors include: (1) your own site-derived lumped
parameters (e.g., Bivs) for site-specific receptors; (2) values published in the scientific literature
or in site-specific technical reports (e.g., from specialized ecological studies) for receptors that
are comparable to site-specific receptors in your evaluation area; and (3) databases such as
the pilot version of the Biota Dose Assessment Database of Environmental Parameters
(BDAD), which is accessible via the Internet through the BDAC web site
(http://homer.ornl.gov/oepa/public/bdac).
7.1.3.3 Review and Select Site-Representative Kds
For aquatic system evaluations where co-located water and sediment samples are not
available, recall that in the general screening phase a most probable Kd is used to calculate the
environmental media radionuclide concentration and dose contribution of either the missing
water or sediment component. Site-specific screening allows you to consider the use of a site-
representative Kd value in place of the default most probable value that was used in the general
screening phase. Minimum, maximum, and most probable Kd values for each radionuclide are
provided in Table 6.5. Sources for Kd values representative of your site specific conditions
include: (1) your own site-derived Kd values; (2) values published in the scientific literature or in
site-specific technical reports; and (3) databases such as the pilot version of the BDAD, which
is accessible via the Internet (see above). Site-representative Kd values are entered into the
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Dose Factors and Common Parameters spreadsheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator and used
in generating site-specific BCGs.
7.1.4 Step 4: Re-Run the Screening Evaluation and Compare Data on Radionuclide
Concentrations in Environmental Media with Newly-Generated Site-
Specific BCGs
The use of lumped parameters appropriate for site-specific conditions or receptors should result
in more realistic, site-representative BCGs. When using the RAD-BCG Calculator, the generic
BCGs listed in the aquatic and terrestrial system data entry/BCG worksheets are automatically
updated with the newly generated BCGs, allowing for easy evaluation. If the sum of fractions
(the summed ratios between the radionuclide concentrations in environmental media and the
radionuclide-specific BCGs) is less than 1.0, the dose to the aquatic or terrestrial receptor is
below the biota dose limit. Refer to Section 8, Reporting Your Biota Dose Evaluation Results.
If the sum is greater than 1.0, further analysis is required. Proceed to Section 7.2, Site-Specific
Analysis.
Section 60
Entering Site-Specific Information into the RAD-BCG Calculator
to Calculate Site-Specific BCGs
Lumped parameters may be modified in each of the organism type spreadsheets contained in
the RAD-BCG Calculator. When working in the riparian or terrestrial animal spreadsheets, click
on the “Lumped BCGs” button to allow these parameters to be modified. A “user supplied value”
message will appear for each lumped parameter modified. Reset buttons for returning all values
to their defaults are also featured.
Site-specific Kd values may be used by entering these values in place of the “most probable”
values in the Dose Factors and Common Parameters spreadsheet.
The site-specific BCGs derived using these new parameters will show up in the organism-type
spreadsheet, and also in the environmental data entry/BCG worksheets, allowing for easy
comparison with site radionuclide concentration data previously entered.
7.2 Analysis Phase - Site-Specific Analysis
In site-specific analysis, a kinetic/allometric model is employed to conduct a more rigorous
analysis of riparian animal and terrestrial animal organism types. Here you are conducting a
very site-specific evaluation (essentially estimating an upper-bound dose) to a site-specific
riparian or terrestrial animal of known characteristics (e.g., body mass, behavior, internal
exposure pathways, and parameters). Recall that the general and site-specific screening
approaches use a lumped parameter in the estimation of internal dose to an organism. The
lumped parameter serves as a "natural integrator" of internal contamination in that it inherently
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reflects all pathways of intake by an organism. In site-specific analysis, simplistic, first-order
kinetic modeling is used to examine the internal pathways of exposure for riparian animal and
terrestrial animal receptors in greater detail. Appropriate parameters representing individual
mechanisms (e.g., ingestion; inhalation) that contribute to internal dose are applied in place of
the lumped parameter (one value which reflects all mechanisms contributing to internal dose).
Appropriate values (e.g., organism body mass; ingestion rate; inhalation rate; biological uptake
and elimination rates) representative of site-specific conditions and receptors are used in the
estimation of internal dose and generation of site-specific BCGs. Allometric equations relating
body size to many of these parameters (e.g., ingestion rate; inhalation rate; life span) are used
in the estimation of internal dose. Alternatively, you can enter your own values in place of
allometrically derived parameters. A correction factor for exposure area or organism residence
time may also be applied for all organism types in site-specific analysis.
7.2.1 Step 5: Assess the Representativeness of Default Parameters and Assumptions
Employed in Kinetic/Allometric Models; Select Site-Specific Parameters
and Generate Site-Specific BCGs
This step allows you to examine and replace default parameters, assumptions, and allometric
relationships used in kinetic/allometric models to derive BCGs for riparian animals and
terrestrial animals. A correction factor for exposure area or organism residence time may also
be applied for all organism types. Each of the elements presented below should be considered
collectively when implementing this step.
7.2.1.1 Identify Radionuclide-Specific Limiting Medium and Organism Type
Section 61
Review the radionuclide-specific BCGs used in the general or site-specific screening portions of
the graded approach. First, identify the environmental medium and individual radionuclides
from your evaluation that provide the greatest contribution to potential dose (e.g., medium
concentration:BCG ratios that represent the largest contributors to the sum of fractions). Then,
for each of these radionuclides, identify the limiting organism type from which the general or
site-specific BCGs were derived. Limiting organism types corresponding to general BCGs are
listed for each radionuclide in Tables 6.1 - 6.4, and in the corresponding RAD-BCG Calculator
spreadsheets. If the riparian animal or terrestrial animal organism types are listed, then you
may consider the guidance in Sections 7.2.1.2 - 7.2.1.4. If riparian or terrestrial animals are not
listed as the limiting organism types, then you need only consider Section 7.2.1.2 below. If you
did not conduct a general or site-specific screen prior to site-specific analysis, the proceeding
statement applies to the site-specific receptor you have chosen to use in your analysis.
7.2.1.2 Consider Correction Factor for Exposure Area or Receptor Residence Time
A correction factor for exposure area or receptor residence time should be among the first
parameters that you consider in site-specific analysis. Temporal and spatial variability can be
taken into account when evaluating doses to biota. For example: (1) radionuclides will typically
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be distributed non-uniformly in the environment; and (2) organisms are typically distributed non-
uniformly within the environment such that exposure may vary among individuals in an affected
population (e.g., organisms may migrate into and out of areas of greater and lesser
contamination). The general and site-specific screening portions of the graded approach
assume for conservative purposes that an organism's residence time in the evaluation area is
100 percent and that the contaminated media are available 100 percent of the time to provide a
source of exposure. These assumptions can be modified in site-specific analysis.
Using a Correction Factor for Exposure Area or Receptor Residence Time
in the RAD-BCG Calculator
A correction factor for exposure area or receptor residence time, located in each of the organism-
type spreadsheets, may be applied. Site-specific BCGs derived using these correction factors will
appear in the organism-type spreadsheets, and also in the environmental data entry/BCG
worksheet, allowing for easy comparison with site radionuclide concentration data previously
entered.
Note that in cases where a riparian or terrestrial animal was indicated as the limiting organism in
general or site-specific screening, it is possible that “scaling down” the correction factor to reflect a
very small percentage of time an organism spends in the contaminated area may result in triggering
the identification of a new limiting organism type (e.g., aquatic animal; terrestrial plant).
Correction Factor for
Receptor Residence
Time. The term
"residence time" as
used in the graded
approach refers to the
fraction of time that an
organism resides in a
radioactively
contaminated area. In
site-specific analysis, a
correction factor for
residence time (e.g., as
a percentage of time)
may be applied to take
into account a specific
receptor's home range,
movements, and
behavior relative to the
evaluation area. This
Section 62
Using the Kinetic/Allometric Method for Riparian and Terrestrial
Animals: Entering Site-Representative Parameters into the
Riparian Animal and Terrestrial Animal Spreadsheets contained in
the RAD-BCG Calculator.
First, click on the “Allometric BCGs” button to allow these parameters
to be modified.
Individual parameters (e.g., body mass; ingestion rate; inhalation rate;
radionuclide uptake and retention factors) related to mechanisms
providing an internal dose may be modified.
Changing the radionuclide-specific food source (Biv) values in the
aquatic animal and terrestrial plant spreadsheets will automatically
change the BCG values in the riparian animal and terrestrial animal
spreadsheets, respectively.
Site-specific BCGs derived using these new parameter values will
show up in the riparian and terrestrial animal spreadsheets, and also in
the environmental data entry/BCG worksheets, allowing for easy
comparison to site radionuclide concentration data previously entered.
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correction factor is entered into the appropriate organism type spreadsheet within the RAD
BCG Calculator and used in generating site-specific BCGs.
Correction Factor for Exposure Area. Radionuclides will typically be distributed non-
uniformly in the environment. In site-specific analysis, a correction factor for contaminated area
(e.g., as a percentage of time) can be applied to take into account an intermittent source of
exposure to all receptors in the evaluation area. This correction factor is entered into the
appropriate organism type spreadsheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator and used in generating
site-specific BCGs.
7.2.1.3 Riparian and Terrestrial Animals: Review and Select Parameters Representative
of Site-specific Conditions and Receptors
In site-specific analysis you can also modify the individual parameters that relate to internal
exposure pathways for site-specific conditions and receptors. The RAD-BCG Calculator is
designed for easy modification of these parameters and subsequent generation of site-specific
BCGs that are derived using these new parameter values. Refer back to Table 4.1 for a
complete list of parameters that can be modified when conducting a site-specific analysis.
7.2.1.4 Riparian and Terrestrial Animals: Review and Select Food Source Parameter
Values Representative of Site-Specific Receptors
The kinetic/allometric method for deriving riparian and terrestrial animal BCGs uses a
radionuclide-specific food source parameter in calculating the internal dose contribution for
these organism types. The method uses radionuclide-specific default Bivs for aquatic animals
(listed in Table 7.1) and terrestrial plants (listed in Table 7.3) as the default food source
parameter values for riparian and terrestrial animals respectively. You may review the
appropriateness of these default food source parameter values (i.e., the Bivs and their source
organisms) and replace these with food source parameter values (Bivs) corresponding to
organisms which are more representative of the expected food sources for the riparian or
terrestrial animal you have selected to use in your site-specific analysis. When using the RAD
BCG Calculator, changing the radionuclide-specific Biv values in the aquatic animal and
terrestrial plant spreadsheets will automatically change the BCG values in the riparian animal
and terrestrial animal spreadsheets respectively. These new site-specific BCGs will also show
up in the environmental system data entry/BCG worksheets, allowing for easy comparisons with
previously entered radionuclide concentration data.
Section 63
7.2.2 Step 6: Re-Run the RAD-BCG Calculator and Compare Data on Radionuclide
Concentrations in Environmental Media with Newly-Generated Site-
Specific BCGs
The use of parameter values and a correction factor appropriate for site-specific conditions or
receptors should result in more realistic, site-representative BCGs. If the sum of fractions (the
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summed ratios between the radionuclide concentrations in environmental media and the
radionuclide-specific BCGs) is less than 1.0, the dose to the aquatic or terrestrial receptor
organism is below the biota dose limit. Refer to Section 8, Documenting Your Biota Dose
Assessment Results. If the sum is greater than 1.0, further analysis is required.
7.3. Analysis Phase - Conducting a Site-Specific Biota Dose Assessment
7.3.1 Determine if Additional Analysis is Warranted
While the majority of the graded approach centers on the use of measured radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media for comparison with BCGs, the site-specific biota dose
assessment component of the analysis phase centers on the actual collection and analysis of
biota from the evaluation area. This is so that measured concentrations of radionuclides in the
tissues of biota can then be used to more realistically estimate the internal dose contribution to
a site-specific receptor.
Should Additional Analysis or Remedial Action be Considered?
Factors to consider if initial general screening, site-specific screening, and site-specific analysis
elements of the graded approach indicate a potential radiological impact to populations of biota
within the evaluation area:
• The geographical extent of the contamination
• The magnitude of potential or observed effects of the contamination relative to the level of
biological organization affected
• The likelihood that these effects could occur or will continue to occur
• The presence of genetically-isolated populations
• The ecological relationship of the affected area to the surrounding habitat
• The preservation of threatened or endangered species, or commercially or culturally valued
species
• The recovery potential of the affected ecological resources and expected persistence of the
radionuclides of concern under present site conditions
• The short- and long-term effects of the remedial alternatives on the habitat and the surrounding
ecosystem
• Information obtained through a “lines of evidence” approach
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Additional analysis may be warranted if biota dose evaluations using the screening and analysis
methods described to this point continue to indicate that there is a potential adverse impact
from radiation as a stressor to populations of biota (i.e., the BCGs are exceeded). An important
point is that exceeding the BCGs should not force a mandatory decision regarding remediation
of the evaluation area, but rather is an indication that further investigation is likely necessary.
There are many factors that should be considered when deciding how to respond following a
determination that the BCGs are exceeded (e.g., ecological relevance and susceptibility of the
affected population; size of the contaminated area and persistence of contaminants; impacts of
remediation alternatives).
Section 64
If radionuclide concentrations in environmental media exceed the BCGs, two courses of action
may be taken. On the one hand, it may be desirable to perform detailed dose assessments for
relevant receptors. But given the potentially large expense that such a site-specific assessment
could incur, removing the sources of ionizing radiation by reducing or eliminating discharges, or
remediating existing environmental contamination, should also be considered. Site-specific
conditions, especially the cost of eliminating discharges and/or remediating contaminated
areas, will determine which approach is the more desirable.
The discussion below provides basic guidance on how to conduct a site-specific biota dose
assessment.
7.3.2 An Important Note Concerning the Use of Available Biota Tissue Data
It is important to note that the use of measured concentrations of radionuclides in tissues of
plants and animals in estimating internal dose is a reasonable and acceptable approach if
adequate data are available. That is, if it can be justified that the available tissue data (1) are
representative of species within the evaluation area that are capable of receiving the highest
dose, and (2) reflect a representative sampling of the population within the evaluation area.
These considerations are especially important in cases where biota tissue data becomes
available as a result of opportunistic sampling (e.g., road kills; hunting). Detailed guidance
regarding the selection of representative receptor species, and representative population and
exposure considerations, is provided in Module 2, Section 6. If available biota tissue data is
determined to be inadequate, then collection and analysis of biota from the evaluation area will
be required. The internal dose conversion factors for biota, and external dose conversion
factors for water, sediment and soil used to derive the generic BCGs in the graded approach
are provided in Table 7.9. These values, together with your measured radionuclide
concentrations in water, sediment and soil, and biota tissue data, can be used to estimate an
upper-bound dose to a receptor.
7.3.3 Step 1: Assemble a Biota Dose Assessment Team
The composition of the biota dose assessment team is critical to designing and conducting a
technically sound dose assessment. Together, team members must have a complete set of the
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relevant skills necessary to do the work. Necessary skills will vary somewhat by site, but should
include ecology, health physics, radioecology, and specialists in fate and transport of
contaminants for the environmental media of interest. Depending on the regulatory compliance
agreements and monitoring program requirements that exist at the site, it may also be desirable
to have a regulatory specialist participate in the assessment. Other site-specific conditions will
dictate the need for other related skills within the team or the need for direct stakeholder
participation at this level.
7.3.4 Step 2: Review Requirements
To perform a detailed dose assessment, it will usually be necessary to design and conduct a
relatively comprehensive environmental study of the sources of ionizing radiation and the
potential receptors (e.g., to involve collection and analysis of site-specific organisms within the
evaluation area). Such a study should be consistent with the requirements of applicable DOE
Orders and guidance, Federal regulations, and State regulations. Particularly important are the
following DOE Orders:
Section 65
C Order 5400.1, General Environmental Protection Program
C Order 5400.5, Radiation Protection of the Public and the Environment
C Order 414.1A, Quality Assurance
These Orders, and the Federal legislation and Executive Orders cited therein, applicable State
regulations, and applicable DOE site-specific requirements should be consulted during the
design and conduct of field and laboratory studies to support dose assessments.
7.3.5 Step 3: Review Assumptions
Two assumptions will most likely be implicit in the dose assessment:
C Because it will be impossible to assess dose to all potential receptor populations in the
area of contamination, one (to several) receptor species must serve as surrogates for
all potentially exposed populations. Therefore, species selected for dose assessment
should be among those that are most sensitive to the effects of ionizing radiation,
helping to ensure that all populations are protected.
C The population of the receptor species for which doses are assessed is defined as
those individuals living within the contaminated area. This assumption is consistent
with the EPA definition of “population.” This assumption is conservative to the extent
that individuals move in and out of the contaminated area.
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Any deviations from the above assumptions when designing or conducting the dose
assessment should be documented.
7.3.6 Recommended Approaches to Designing and Conducting the Dose Assessment
It is strongly recommended that all dose assessments be designed and conducted following the
Guidelines for Ecological Risk Assessment (EPA 1998). Use of these guidelines will help
ensure that the resulting dose assessments are technically sound. In addition, some of the
steps in the ecological risk process (e.g., development of a site conceptual model) will be useful
for assessing toxicological risks associated with some radionuclides (e.g., uranium isotopes) as
well as the ecological risks from other co-occurring substances or stressors within the
contaminated area (e.g., hazardous chemicals). The site conceptual model will also be useful
for understanding the large-scale distribution of contaminants and the sources of ecological risk
to the populations within and beyond the study area. Guidelines for Ecological Risk
Assessment can be downloaded from the DOE EH-41 Dose and Risk Assessment web site
(http://www.eh.doe.gov/oepa/risk). An electronic tool for developing a site conceptual model is
also available at this web site. If multiple stressors are present and need to be evaluated, then
appropriate guidance concerning cumulative risk assessment should be considered (e.g., see
EPA 1997b).
In addition to the references found in EPA’s Guidelines for Ecological Risk Assessment, the
following references and materials should be useful, many of which are also available on the
EH-41 Dose and Risk Assessment web site: (http:/www.eh.doe.gov/oepa/risk).
C G.R. Bilyard, H. Beckert, J.J. Bascietto, C.W. Abrams, S.A. Dyer, and L.A. Haselow.
1997. Using the Data Quality Objectives Process During the Design and Conduct of
Ecological Risk Assessments. DOE/EH-0544, prepared for U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Environmental Policy and Assistance by Pacific Northwest National
Laboratory, Richland, Washington.
C B.E. Sample, M.S. Aplin, R.A. Efroymson, G.W. Suter II, and C.J.E. Welsh. 1997.
Methods and Tools for Estimation of the Exposure of Terrestrial Wildlife to
Contaminants. ORNL/TM-13391, prepared for U.S. Department of Energy, Office of
Environmental Policy and Assistance by Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge,
Tennessee.
Section 66
C U.S. Department of Energy. 1991. Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological
Effluent Monitoring and Environmental Surveillance. DOE/EH-0173T, Assistant
Secretary for Environment, Safety and Health, U.S. Department of Energy,
Washington, D.C.
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http://www.eh.doe.gov/oepa/risk
DOE-STD-1153-2002
C U.S. Department of Energy. 1998. Compendium of EPA-Approved Analytical
Methods for Measuring Radionuclides in Drinking Water. Office of Environmental
Policy and Assistance, Assistant Secretary for Environment, Safety and Health, U.S.
Department of Energy, Washington, D.C.
C U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 1997. Ecological Risk Assessment
Guidance for Superfund: Process for Designing and Conducting Ecological Risk
Assessments. EPA 540-R-97-006 (Interim Final June 5, 1997), U.S. EPA,
Washington, D.C.
7.3.7 Designing and Conducting the Dose Assessment
The Guidelines for Ecological Risk Assessment (EPA 1998) provide a flexible framework for
assessing ecological risks. The framework consists of three major phases of activity: problem
formulation, analysis, and risk characterization. Activities within each of these phases can be
summarized as follows:
In problem formulation, risk assessors evaluate goals and select assessment endpoints,
prepare the conceptual model, and develop an analysis plan. During the analysis phase,
assessors evaluate exposure to stressors and the relationship between stressor levels and
ecological effects. In the third phase, risk characterization, assessors estimate risk (or dose)
through integration of exposure and stressor-response profiles, describe risk by discussing
lines of evidence and determining ecological adversity, and prepare a report. A more detailed
“primer” on how to evaluate doses to biota through the ecological risk assessment process is
provided in Module 2, Section 1.
The dose assessment team has
Assessment Endpoint
considerable latitude over how activities
should be conducted within each phase of An explicit expression of the environmental
the assessment. The dose limits value that is to be protected, operationally
recommended in Module 1, Section 1.1 do defined by an ecological entity and its
not compromise this flexibility, but provide a attributes. For example, salmon are valued
major advantage for the dose assessment ecological entities; reproduction and age class
structure are some of their important attributes. team because they define doses below which
Together “salmon reproduction and age class
structure” form an assessment endpoint.
risks to populations are assumed not to
occur. This definition simplifies those steps
in the ecological risk assessment process
that involve assessing the relationship
between stressor levels and ecological effects, characterizing, estimating, and assessing risks.
Caution should be exercised if more restrictive limits are selected, to ensure that the supporting
effects data are of high quality, reproducible, and clearly relevant to protection of natural
populations. In cases where evaluating dose to individual organisms is needed, you should
consider the guidance provided in Module 2, Section 8. The following brief overview of the
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ecological risk assessment process emphasizes how the recommended dose limits simplify the
risk assessment process for the dose assessment team.
Section 67
Problem Formulation. In this first phase, the purpose of the dose assessment is clearly
defined, the problem is clearly stated, and a plan for analyzing and characterizing risks is
developed. As seen in Figure 7.1, available information is integrated to develop a site
conceptual model and define assessment endpoints. The analysis plan is derived from the
assessment endpoints and conceptual model. As the risk assessment proceeds, assessment
endpoints and/or the site conceptual model may be refined, requiring subsequent revisions to
the analysis plan.
In the problem formulation phase, the dose assessment team will perform the above steps in
much the same way as would an ecological risk-assessment team. For this reason, the dose
assessment team should coordinate its activities with other ecological risk assessment efforts
Integrate Available
Inform ation
Integrate Available
Inform ation
As Necessary:
Acquire D ata,
Iterate Process,
Monitor Results
Conceptual
Model
Assessment
Endpoints
Conceptual
Model
Analysis
P lanP lan
P lanning
(R isk Assessor/
R isk Manager/
Interested Parties
D ia logue)
ANANAALLYYSSIISS
Figure 7.1 Problem Formulation, Phase 1 of Dose Assessment
(from EPA 1998)
so that the identification of assessment endpoints and the development of site conceptual
models are coordinated. The dose assessment team will, however, need to consider two
factors that an ecological risk-assessment team might not. First, the analysis plan should
select receptor species resident at the specific site that are known to be radiosensitive.
Second, certain considerations are important to collecting biological samples for dosimetric
assessments. Collection of biological samples is done to provide more realistic estimates of
internal dose to organisms. Considerations for collecting biological samples are reviewed in
detail in Module 2, Section 6. Additional considerations for both dose assessments and
ecological risk assessments are the movement of receptors into and out of the contaminated
area and the distribution of receptors relative to the contaminated area. These considerations
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are particularly relevant to motile species, small “hot spots” of contamination, and areas where
the concentrations of contaminants vary spatially. In such cases, it may be expedient to better
PPRROOBBLLEEMM FFORMORMUULALATITIOONN
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of Exposure
Characterization
of Ecological Effects
elifoPr
eurposxE
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of
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of
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and Receptor
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Exposure Ecological Response
Analys is Analysis
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of Exposure
Characterization
of Ecological Effects
Measures
of
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M easures
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Figure 7.2 Analysis, Phase 2 of Dose Assessment (from EPA 1998)
define the distribution of organisms in time and/or space relative to the contaminated area. For
example, individuals of a species may reside year-round within the region but move into and out
of the contaminated area, necessitating the collection of data on duration of exposure. Or,
ecologically significant species of plants may be located in only one part of the contaminated
area and may be exposed to radionuclide concentrations that are above or below mean values
for the area. Refer to Module 2, Sections 2 through 5 for detailed guidance in these areas.
Section 68
Analysis Phase. The exposure profile and stressor-response profile (i.e., ecological effects
profile) are estimated during this phase (see Figure 7.2). The dose assessment team should
focus on the exposure side of the analysis phase because deleterious effects on receptor
populations are assumed not to occur below the recommended limits of 0.1 rad/d or 1.0 rad/d,
as appropriate.
In this phase, the dose assessment team should focus on identifying exposure pathways and
quantifying exposure. The site conceptual model is the basis for identifying exposure
pathways. Quantifying exposure is achieved by assessing the strengths and limitations of the
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existing site-specific environmental data on radionuclide contamination, collecting additional
supplemental data as needed, and quantitatively analyzing exposure. If supplemental data are
needed, the analysis plan may also need to be revised.
Figure 7.3 Risk Characterization, Phase 3 of Dose Assessment
(from EPA 1998)
Risk Characterization. In this phase, doses are estimated and described (see Figure 7.3).
The recommended limits again simplify this process since adverse effects on receptor
populations are assumed not to occur at exposures below the recommended limits. Plants and
animals may also be simultaneously exposed to other stressors, such as noise and hazardous
chemicals. At present, no consensus exists within the scientific community about what the
cumulative impacts are of simultaneous exposure to ionizing radiation and other anthropogenic
stressors, or how to measure them. This factor should be considered when estimating and
describing the risks associated with doses of ionizing radiation, if only qualitatively. In cases
where exposure of biota to ionizing radiation exceeds the biota dose limits, a consideration of
cumulative impacts from radiation and other stressors present may be warranted. Refer to
EPA’s Guidance on Cumulative Risk Assessment, Part 1, Planning and Scoping (EPA 1997b)
for an introduction to this topic.
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Table 7.1 Aquatic Animal Biota Concentration Guide Spreadsheet. BCGs are for use with
radionuclide concentrations from co-located water and sediment. The default
lumped parameter values (Bivs) listed here were used to derive the generic BCGs
for the general screening phase. These lumped parameter values may be replaced
with site-representative values in the site-specific screening component of the
analysis phase.
Nuclide
Derived Concentrations Bioaccumulation Factor
BCG
(sediment)
Bq/kg
BCG
(water)
Bq/m3
Biv, Organism to Water
(L/kg) Fresh Mass
Water Biv
Reference(a)
241Am 3E+07 2E+04 400 CRITR
144Ce 1E+06 6E+04 9000 T&M, Table 5.41
135Cs 3E+07 5E+05 22000 T&M, Table 5.41
137Cs 2E+06 4E+04 22000 T&M, Table 5.41
60Co 6E+05 1E+05 2000 T&M, Table 5.41
154Eu 1E+06 8E+05 600 GENII
155Eu 1E+07 1E+07 600 GENII
3H 3E+08 2E+11 0.2 CRITR
129I 2E+07 4E+07 220 T&M, Table 5.41
131I 3E+06 6E+06 220 T&M, Table 5.41
239Pu 3E+08 7E+03 1000 T&M, Table 5.41
226Ra 5E+05 4E+02 3200 T&M, Table 5.41
228Ra 1E+06 3E+02 3200 Based on 226Ra
125Sb 3E+06 1E+07 100 T&M, Table 5.41
90Sr 1E+06 2E+06 320 T&M, Table 5.41
99Tc 2E+07 9E+07 78 T&M, Table 5.41
232Th 1E+08 1E+04 80 T&M, Table 5.41
233U 4E+08 7E+03 1000 T&M, Table 5.41
234U 1E+08 7E+03 1000 T&M, Table 5.41
235U 4E+06 8E+03 1000 T&M, Table 5.41
238U 2E+06 8E+03 1000 T&M, Table 5.41
65Zn 2E+06 7E+04 17000 T&M, Table 5.41
95Zr 9E+05 3E+05 1600 T&M, Table 5.41
Section 69
(a) T&M = Till and Meyer 1983; GENII = Napier et al. 1988; CRITR = Baker and Soldat 1992
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ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
B
C
G
s
ar
e
fo
r
us
e
w
ith
r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
e
co
nc
en
tr
at
io
ns
fr
om
c
o-
lo
ca
te
d
w
at
er
a
nd
s
ed
im
en
t.
T
he
d
ef
au
lt
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
w
er
e
us
ed
to
d
er
iv
e
th
e
ge
ne
ric
B
C
G
s
fo
r
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
.
T
he
se
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
m
ay
b
e
re
pl
ac
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-
re
pr
es
en
ta
tiv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
s
cr
ee
ni
ng
c
om
po
ne
nt
o
f t
he
a
na
ly
si
s
ph
as
e.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(s
ed
im
en
t)
B
q
/k
g
B
C
G
(w
at
er
)
B
q
/m
3
L
u
m
p
ed
P
ar
am
et
er
,
B
q
/k
g
(
an
im
al
-
w
et
w
ei
g
h
t)
p
er
B
q
/k
g
s
ed
im
en
t
p
er
B
q
/L
w
at
er
24
1 A
m
2E
+
05
5E
+
04
3.
E
-0
3
1.
E
+
01
14
4 C
e
1E
+
05
2E
+
06
5.
E
-0
4
3.
E
+
01
13
5 C
s
2E
+
06
2E
+
04
3.
E
-0
1
5.
E
+
04
13
7 C
s
1E
+
05
2E
+
03
3.
E
-0
1
5.
E
+
04
60
C
o
5E
+
04
2E
+
05
1.
E
-0
2
2.
E
+
02
15
4 E
u
1E
+
05
2E
+
06
4.
E
-0
3
2.
E
+
01
15
5 E
u
1E
+
06
3E
+
07
3.
E
-0
3
2.
E
+
01
3 H
1E
+
07
1E
+
10
4.
E
-0
1
8.
E
-0
1
12
9 I
1E
+
06
1E
+
06
3.
E
-0
1
6.
E
+
02
13
1 I
2E
+
05
5E
+
05
1.
E
-0
1
2.
E
+
02
23
9 P
u
2E
+
05
2E
+
04
3.
E
-0
3
3.
E
+
01
22
6 R
a
4E
+
03
2E
+
02
3.
E
-0
2
8.
E
+
02
22
8 R
a
3E
+
03
1E
+
02
3.
E
-0
2
8.
E
+
02
12
5 S
b
3E
+
05
2E
+
08
4.
E
-0
4
3.
E
-0
1
90
S
r
2E
+
04
1E
+
04
2.
E
+
00
6.
E
+
03
99
T
c
2E
+
06
2E
+
07
5.
E
-0
2
3.
E
+
01
23
2 T
h
5E
+
04
6E
+
04
2.
E
-0
3
1.
E
+
00
23
3 U
2E
+
05
3E
+
04
4.
E
-0
3
3.
E
+
01
23
4 U
2E
+
05
3E
+
04
4.
E
-0
3
3.
E
+
01
23
5 U
1E
+
05
3E
+
04
4.
E
-0
3
3.
E
+
01
23
8 U
9E
+
04
3E
+
04
4.
E
-0
3
3.
E
+
01
65
Z
n
5E
+
04
5E
+
02
2.
E
+
00
2.
E
+
05
95
Z
r
9E
+
04
1E
+
06
3.
E
-0
3
4.
E
+
01
(a
)
C
R
IT
R
=
B
ak
er
a
nd
S
ol
da
t 1
99
2;
T
&
M
=
T
ill
a
nd
M
ey
er
1
98
3;
G
E
N
II
=
N
ap
ie
r
et
a
l.
19
88
; W
&
S
=
W
hi
ck
er
a
nd
S
ch
ul
tz
1
98
2;
K
A
H
=
K
. A
. H
ig
le
y,
O
re
go
n
S
ta
te
U
ni
ve
rs
ity
.
DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-60
T
ab
le
7
.3
T
er
re
st
ria
l P
la
nt
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
T
he
d
ef
au
lt
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
(B
iv
s)
li
st
ed
h
er
e
w
er
e
us
ed
to
d
er
iv
e
th
e
ge
ne
ric
B
C
G
s
fo
r
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
.
T
he
se
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
m
ay
be
r
ep
la
ce
d
w
ith
s
ite
-r
ep
re
se
nt
at
iv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
s
cr
ee
ni
ng
c
om
po
ne
nt
o
f t
he
a
na
ly
si
s
ph
as
e.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(
so
il)
B
q
/k
g
B
C
G
(
w
at
er
)
B
q
/m
3
B
io
ac
cu
m
u
la
ti
o
n
F
ac
to
r,
B
iv
B
q
/k
g
(
p
la
n
t
-
w
et
w
ei
g
h
t)
p
er
B
q
/k
g
(
so
il)
R
ef
er
en
ce
(a
)
24
1 A
m
8E
+
05
3E
+
10
8E
-0
3
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
14
4 C
e
5E
+
05
1E
+
09
4E
-0
2
T
&
Section 70
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
13
5 C
s
1E
+
06
3E
+
10
1E
+
01
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
13
7 C
s
8E
+
04
2E
+
09
1E
+
01
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
60
C
o
2E
+
05
6E
+
08
2E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
15
4 E
u
5E
+
05
1E
+
09
4E
-0
2
E
st
im
at
ed
fr
om
C
e
va
lu
e
by
K
A
H
15
5 E
u
6E
+
06
1E
+
10
4E
-0
2
E
st
im
at
ed
fr
om
C
e
va
lu
e
by
K
A
H
3 H
6E
+
07
3E
+
11
1E
+
00
E
st
im
at
ed
fr
om
N
U
R
E
G
1
.1
09
12
9 I
6E
+
06
2E
+
10
4E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
13
1 I
9E
+
05
3E
+
09
4E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
fo
r
12
9 I
23
9 P
u
5E
+
05
3E
+
11
1E
-0
2
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
22
6 R
a
1E
+
04
5E
+
08
1E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
22
8 R
a
9E
+
03
1E
+
09
1E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
fr
om
22
6 R
a
12
5 S
b
1E
+
06
3E
+
09
1E
-0
2
F
ro
m
G
E
N
II,
F
oo
d
T
ra
ns
fe
r
Li
br
ar
y
90
S
r
1E
+
05
1E
+
09
4E
+
00
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
99
T
c
8E
+
05
2E
+
10
8E
+
00
F
ro
m
G
E
N
II,
F
oo
d
T
ra
ns
fe
r
Li
br
ar
y
23
2 T
h
9E
+
05
1E
+
11
1E
-0
3
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
23
3 U
2E
+
06
4E
+
11
4E
-0
3
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
fr
om
23
8 U
23
4 U
2E
+
06
1E
+
11
4E
-0
3
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
fr
om
23
8 U
23
5 U
1E
+
06
4E
+
09
4E
-0
3
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
fr
om
23
8 U
23
8 U
6E
+
05
2E
+
09
4E
-0
3
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
8
65
Z
n
9E
+
05
2E
+
09
3E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
95
Z
r
4E
+
05
9E
+
08
3E
-0
2
T
&
M
, T
ab
le
5
.1
6,
T
ab
le
5
.1
7
(a
)
T
&
M
=
T
ill
a
nd
M
ey
er
1
98
3;
G
E
N
II
=
N
ap
ie
r
et
a
l.
19
88
; K
A
H
=
K
. A
. H
ig
le
y,
O
re
go
n
S
ta
te
U
ni
ve
rs
ity
.
DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-61
T
ab
le
7
.4
P
ar
t 1
o
f t
he
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
T
he
d
ef
au
lt
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
lis
te
d
he
re
w
er
e
us
ed
to
d
er
iv
e
th
e
ge
ne
ric
B
C
G
s
fo
r
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
.
T
he
se
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
va
lu
es
m
ay
b
e
re
pl
ac
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-r
ep
re
se
nt
at
iv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
s
cr
ee
ni
ng
c
om
po
ne
nt
o
f t
he
a
na
ly
si
s
ph
as
e.
N
u
cl
id
e
B
C
G
(
so
il)
B
q
/k
g
B
C
G
(
w
at
er
)
B
q
/m
3
L
u
m
p
ed
P
ar
am
et
er
s
T
er
re
st
ri
al
A
n
im
al
t
o
S
o
il
B
q
/k
g
(
an
im
al
-
w
et
w
t.
)
/ B
q
/k
g
(s
o
il)
T
er
re
st
ri
al
A
n
im
al
t
o
W
at
er
B
q
/k
g
(
an
im
al
-
w
et
w
t.
)/
B
q
/L
(w
at
er
)
24
1 A
m
1E
+
05
7E
+
06
4E
-0
3
9E
-0
2
14
4 C
e
5E
+
04
1E
+
08
6E
-0
3
8E
-0
3
13
5 C
s
1E
+
04
3E
+
08
1E
+
02
3E
+
00
13
7 C
s
8E
+
02
2E
+
07
1E
+
02
3E
+
00
60
C
o
3E
+
04
4E
+
07
8E
-0
2
1E
-0
1
15
4 E
u
5E
+
04
8E
+
07
5E
-0
3
1E
-0
1
15
5 E
u
6E
+
05
1E
+
09
4E
-0
3
9E
-0
2
3 H
6E
+
06
9E
+
09
Section 71
1E
+
00
1E
+
00
12
9 I
2E
+
05
2E
+
08
3E
+
00
3E
+
00
13
1 I
3E
+
04
7E
+
07
3E
+
00
1E
+
00
23
9 P
u
2E
+
05
7E
+
06
3E
-0
3
9E
-0
2
22
6 R
a
2E
+
03
3E
+
05
6E
-0
2
4E
-0
1
22
8 R
a
2E
+
03
3E
+
05
6E
-0
2
4E
-0
1
12
5 S
b
1E
+
05
3E
+
08
4E
-0
4
5E
-0
3
90
S
r
8E
+
02
2E
+
06
8E
+
01
3E
+
01
99
T
c
2E
+
05
6E
+
08
3E
+
00
8E
-0
1
23
2 T
h
6E
+
04
2E
+
06
2E
-0
3
5E
-0
2
23
3 U
2E
+
05
1E
+
07
4E
-0
3
5E
-0
2
23
4 U
2E
+
05
1E
+
07
4E
-0
3
5E
-0
2
23
5 U
1E
+
05
2E
+
07
4E
-0
3
5E
-0
2
23
8 U
6E
+
04
2E
+
07
4E
-0
3
5E
-0
2
65
Z
n
2E
+
04
6E
+
06
7E
+
00
2E
+
01
95
Z
r
4E
+
04
8E
+
07
4E
-0
3
3E
-0
2
DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-62
T
ab
le
7
.5
P
ar
t 2
o
f t
he
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
T
he
d
ef
au
lt
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
lis
te
d
he
re
r
el
at
in
g
to
th
e
up
ta
ke
, r
et
en
tio
n
an
d
bi
ol
og
ic
al
d
ec
ay
r
at
es
o
f r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
es
fo
r
a
rip
ar
ia
n
an
im
al
r
ec
ep
to
r
m
ay
b
e
re
pl
ac
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-r
ep
re
se
nt
at
iv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
a
na
ly
si
s
co
m
po
ne
nt
o
f t
he
a
na
ly
si
s
ph
as
e.
N
u
cl
id
e
F
ra
ct
io
n
o
f
In
ta
ke
R
et
ai
n
ed
f 1
(
u
n
it
le
ss
)
B
io
lo
g
ic
al
D
ec
ay
C
o
n
st
an
t
λ b
io
(
d
-1
)
λb
io
=
In
(2
)/
(a
W
b
)
λ b
io
(
d
-1
)
R
ef
er
en
ce
(a
)
a
(c
o
n
st
an
t)
b
(c
o
n
st
an
t)
24
1 A
m
1E
-0
3
5.
53
E
-0
4
0.
8
0.
81
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 4
14
4 C
e
3E
-0
4
3.
46
E
-0
4
1.
4
0.
8
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
13
5 C
s
1E
+
00
2.
24
E
-0
2
3.
5
0.
24
W
&
S
13
7 C
s
1E
+
00
2.
24
E
-0
2
3.
5
0.
24
W
&
S
60
C
o
5E
-0
2
3.
01
E
-0
2
2.
6
0.
24
W
&
S
15
4 E
u
1E
-0
3
3.
46
E
-0
4
1.
4
0.
8
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 3
15
5 E
u
1E
-0
3
3.
46
E
-0
4
1.
4
0.
8
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 3
3 H
1E
+
00
5.
72
E
-0
3
0.
82
0.
55
W
&
S
12
9 I
1E
+
00
3.
13
E
-0
2
6.
8
0.
13
W
&
S
13
1 I
1E
+
00
3.
13
E
-0
2
6.
8
0.
13
W
&
S
23
9 P
u
1E
-0
3
5.
53
E
-0
4
0.
8
0.
81
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 4
22
6 R
a
2E
-0
1
3.
58
E
-0
2
2
0.
25
E
st
im
at
ed
b
y
K
A
H
22
8 R
a
2E
-0
1
3.
58
E
-0
2
2
0.
25
E
st
im
at
ed
b
y
K
A
H
12
5 S
b
1E
-0
2
1.
43
E
-0
1
0.
5
0.
25
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 3
90
S
r
3E
-0
1
6.
11
E
-0
4
10
7
0.
26
W
&
S
99
T
c
8E
-0
1
6.
11
E
-0
2
0.
3
0.
4
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 2
23
2 T
h
2E
-0
4
1.
34
E
-0
4
3.
3
0.
81
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
23
3 U
5E
-0
2
6.
81
E
-0
2
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
23
4 U
5E
-0
2
6.
81
E
-0
2
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
23
5 U
5E
-0
2
6.
81
E
-0
2
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
23
8 U
5E
-0
2
6.
81
E
-0
2
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
65
Z
n
5E
-0
1
7.
16
E
-0
4
10
0
0.
25
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 2
95
Z
r
2E
-0
3
7.
16
E
-0
4
10
0
0.
25
IC
R
P
3
0,
P
ar
t 1
(a
)
C
R
IT
R
=
B
ak
er
a
nd
S
ol
da
t 1
99
2;
T
&
M
=
T
ill
a
nd
M
ey
er
1
98
3;
G
E
N
II
=
N
ap
ie
r
et
a
l.
19
88
; W
&
S
=
W
hi
ck
er
a
nd
S
ch
ul
tz
1
98
2;
K
A
H
=
K
. A
. H
ig
le
y,
O
re
go
n
S
ta
te
U
ni
ve
rs
ity
.
Section 72
DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-63
D
O
E
-S
T
D
-1
15
3-
20
02
T
ab
le
7
.6
P
ar
t 3
o
f t
he
R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
R
ip
ar
ia
n
an
im
al
d
ef
au
lt
ki
ne
tic
/a
llo
m
et
ric
re
la
tio
ns
hi
p
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
lis
te
d
he
re
m
ay
b
e
re
pl
ac
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-r
ep
re
se
nt
at
iv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
an
al
ys
is
c
om
po
ne
nt
o
f t
he
a
na
ly
si
s
ph
as
e.
Pa
ra
m
et
er
Eq
ua
tio
n
D
es
cr
ip
tio
ns
Va
lu
e(
s)
R
ef
er
en
ce
W
Bo
dy
m
as
s
(g
)
88
00
de
fa
ul
t f
or
ra
cc
oo
n
or
ri
ve
r o
tte
r
r
0.
75
70
M
dc
a
r
=
Fo
od
in
ta
ke
ra
te
(g
/d
)
32
5.
13
77
22
3
W
&S
, V
ol
. I
I,
p.
4
3,
e
qu
at
io
n
78
a:
ra
tio
o
f a
ct
iv
e
to
b
as
al
m
et
ab
ol
ic
ra
te
2
70
: c
on
st
an
t
70
d:
fr
ac
tio
n
of
e
ne
rg
y
in
ge
st
ed
th
at
is
a
ss
im
ila
te
d
or
o
xi
di
ze
d
0.
44
c:
c
al
or
ic
v
al
ue
o
f f
oo
d,
k
ca
l/g
5
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
(=
W
*0
.0
01
)
8.
8
0.
75
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
75
r s
ed
im
en
t
r
rs
ed
im
en
t
=
0.
1
Se
di
m
en
t I
nt
ak
e
R
at
e
(g
/d
)
32
.5
13
77
23
EP
A
W
ild
lif
e
Ex
po
su
re
F
ac
to
r
H
an
db
oo
k,
V
ol
. 1
, p
. 4
-2
2
r:
fo
od
in
ta
ke
ra
te
, g
/d
32
5.
13
77
22
3
0.
1:
fr
ac
tio
n
of
s
ed
im
en
t i
n
di
et
, e
xp
re
ss
ed
a
s
%
o
f f
oo
d
di
et
, d
ry
w
t.
0.
1
T I
s
0.
30
,m
ax
,
1.
02
M
T ls
=
M
ax
im
um
L
ife
sp
an
1.
95
85
96
49
7
C
al
de
r,
p.
3
16
, T
ab
le
1
1-
5
1.
02
: c
on
st
an
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
1.
02
M
=
b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
8.
8
0.
30
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
30
r b
0.
76
0.
48
1
M
r b
=
In
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(m
3 /d
)
2.
51
16
08
28
6
Pe
dl
ey
, p
. 1
5,
T
ab
le
V
.,
ad
ju
st
ed
to
pr
ov
id
e
un
its
o
f m
3 /d
0.
48
1:
c
on
st
an
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
to
g
iv
e
m
3 /d
0.
48
1
M
=
b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
8.
8
0.
76
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
0.
76
r i
nh
al
at
io
n
b
in
ha
la
ti
on
r
x
r
=
Se
di
m
en
t i
nh
al
at
io
n
ra
te
(g
/d
)
0.
00
02
51
16
1
de
riv
ed
x:
a
irb
or
ne
d
us
t l
oa
di
ng
, g
/m
3
0.
00
01
r b:
in
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(s
ee
a
bo
ve
)
2.
51
16
08
28
6
I w
0.
90
0.
09
9
M
I w
=
W
at
er
c
on
su
m
pt
io
n
ra
te
(L
/d
)
0.
70
09
21
85
2
EP
A
W
ild
lif
e
Ex
po
su
re
F
ac
to
r
H
an
db
oo
k,
V
ol
. 1
, p
. 3
-1
0,
e
qu
at
io
n
3
17
0.
09
9:
c
on
st
an
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
0.
09
9
se
e
ab
ov
e
eq
ua
tio
n,
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
(=
W
*0
.0
01
)
8.
8
0.
9:
e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
9
M
1-
64
T
ab
le
7
.7
P
ar
t 2
o
f t
he
T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
T
he
d
ef
au
lt
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
lis
te
d
he
re
r
el
at
in
g
to
th
e
up
ta
ke
, r
et
en
tio
n,
a
nd
b
io
lo
gi
ca
l d
ec
ay
r
at
es
o
f r
ad
io
nu
cl
id
es
fo
r
a
te
rr
es
tr
ia
l
an
im
al
r
ec
ep
to
r
m
ay
b
e
re
pl
ac
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-r
ep
re
se
nt
at
iv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
a
na
ly
si
s
co
m
po
ne
nt
o
f
th
e
an
al
ys
is
p
ha
se
.
N
u
Section 73
cl
id
e
F
ra
ct
io
n
o
f
In
ta
ke
R
et
ai
n
ed
f 1
(
u
n
it
le
ss
)
B
io
lo
g
ic
al
D
ec
ay
C
o
n
st
an
t
λ
b
io
,d
-1
λ b
io
=
ln
(2
)
/ (
aW
b
)
λ
b
io
(
d
-1
)
R
ef
er
en
ce
(a
)
P
T
/IT
(b
)
a
(c
o
n
st
an
t)
b
(e
xp
o
n
en
t)
24
1 A
m
1E
-0
3
7.
09
E
-0
2
0.
8
0.
81
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 4
25
0
14
4 C
e
3E
-0
4
4.
18
E
-0
2
1.
4
0.
8
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
16
13
5 C
s
1E
+
00
9.
43
E
-0
2
3.
5
0.
24
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
0.
8
13
7 C
s
1E
+
00
9.
43
E
-0
2
3.
5
0.
24
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
0.
8
60
C
o
5E
-0
2
1.
27
E
-0
1
2.
6
0.
24
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
7
15
4 E
u
1E
-0
3
4.
18
E
-0
2
1.
4
0.
8
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t3
30
15
5 E
u
1E
-0
3
4.
18
E
-0
2
1.
4
0.
8
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 3
30
3 H
1E
+
00
1.
54
E
-0
1
0.
82
0.
55
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
1
12
9 I
1E
+
00
6.
82
E
-0
2
6.
8
0.
13
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
0.
7
13
1 I
1E
+
00
6.
82
E
-0
2
6.
8
0.
13
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
0.
7
23
9 P
u
1E
-0
3
7.
09
E
-0
2
0.
8
0.
81
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 3
40
00
22
6 R
a
2E
-0
1
1.
6E
-0
1
2
0.
25
E
st
im
at
ed
b
y
K
A
H
3
22
8 R
a
2E
-0
1
1.
6E
-0
1
2
0.
25
E
st
im
at
ed
b
y
K
A
H
3
12
5 S
b
1E
-0
2
6.
40
E
-0
1
0.
5
0.
25
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 3
3.
5
90
S
r
3E
-0
1
2.
90
E
-0
3
10
7
0.
26
W
hi
ck
er
&
S
ch
ul
tz
20
0
99
T
c
8E
-0
1
6.
71
E
-0
1
0.
3
0.
4
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 2
5
23
2 T
h
2E
-0
4
1.
72
E
-0
2
3.
3
0.
81
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
75
0
23
3 U
5E
-0
2
3.
65
E
-0
1
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
70
00
23
4 U
5E
-0
2
3.
65
E
-0
1
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
70
00
23
5 U
5E
-0
2
3.
65
E
-0
1
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
35
00
23
8 U
5E
-0
2
3.
65
E
-0
1
0.
8
0.
28
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
40
00
65
Z
n
5E
-0
1
3.
20
E
-0
3
10
0
0.
25
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 2
1
95
Z
r
2E
-0
3
3.
20
E
-0
3
10
0
0.
25
IC
R
P
3
0
P
ar
t 1
10
(a
)
K
A
H
=
K
.A
. H
ig
le
y,
O
re
go
n
S
ta
te
U
ni
ve
rs
ity
; W
hi
ck
er
a
nd
S
ch
ul
tz
, 1
98
2;
(
b)
P
T
/IT
=
F
ac
to
r
us
ed
in
a
ss
es
si
ng
th
e
re
la
tiv
e
co
nt
rib
ut
io
n
to
in
te
rn
al
d
os
e
fr
om
a
ni
m
al
in
ha
la
tio
n
ve
rs
us
in
ge
st
io
n.
DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-65
T
ab
le
7
.8
P
ar
t 3
o
f T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
B
io
ta
C
on
ce
nt
ra
tio
n
G
ui
de
S
pr
ea
ds
he
et
.
T
er
re
st
ria
l a
ni
m
al
d
ef
au
lt
ki
ne
tic
/a
llo
m
et
ric
re
la
tio
ns
hi
p
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
s
lis
te
d
he
re
m
ay
b
e
re
pl
ac
ed
w
ith
s
ite
-r
ep
re
se
nt
at
iv
e
va
lu
es
in
th
e
si
te
-s
pe
ci
fic
a
na
ly
si
s
co
m
po
ne
nt
o
f t
he
a
na
ly
si
s
ph
as
e.
Pa
ra
m
et
er
Eq
ua
tio
n
D
es
cr
ip
tio
ns
Va
lu
e(
s)
R
ef
er
en
ce
W
Bo
dy
m
as
s
(g
)
22
de
fa
ul
t f
or
d
ee
r m
ou
se
r
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M1-66
T
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Section 75
8
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
M1-67
DOE-STD-1153-2002
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
M1-68
DOE-STD-1153-2002
8 Documenting Your Biota Dose Evaluation Results
At a minimum, your results shall be documented in your Annual Site Environmental Report
(DOE 2000b). The following information shall be summarized in the Annual Site Environmental
Report, and described in more detail within a report retained on file for future reference:
• Specify the biota dose limits being
complied with (e.g., 1 rad/d for aquatic
animals; DOE Order 5400.5).
• Identify the methods used to demonstrate
compliance with these limits. Cite the
method used (e.g., this technical
standard). Describe the process used
(e.g., general screening phase, site-
specific analysis, actual biota dose
assessment involving the collection and
analysis of biota).
Printing the Results of Your Biota Dose
Evaluation using the RAD-BCG Calculator
Clicking on the “Set Print Area for Report”
button at the bottom of the Aquatic or Terrestrial
System Data Entry/BCG Worksheets, then
pressing the printer icon in the toolbar, will print
out a record of your biota dose evaluation.
Sum of fraction totals, limiting organism types,
and any changes you made to default
parameters will be included.
• Describe the area(s) of evaluation, sources of exposure, organism types, media types, and
radionuclide data used in the evaluation.
• Summarize the results (e.g., sum of fractions for media and radionuclides are less than 1;
doses calculated are less than biota dose limits) for the site area(s) of evaluation; and
conclusions.
• Summarize why the evaluation was conducted, and how the results will be used (e.g., to
demonstrate compliance with DOE dose limits, for use in outreach activities, in response to
stakeholder or regulator requests, or for use in an eco-risk assessment.)
• All detailed information used in calculations (e.g., site-specific parameters selected and the
rationale for their use) shall be described and retained on file for future reference.
M1-69
DOE-STD-1153-2002
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
M1-70
DOE-STD-1153-2002
9 Example Applications of the Graded Approach
9.1 Generic Example of an Aquatic System Evaluation
This example was prepared using actual measured radionuclide concentration data from a DOE
site. However, the data is used within a hypothetical context for a generic site (e.g., Poplar
Springs Site, a hypothetical site). Two cases are provided, drawing from the same data set of
measured radionuclide concentrations from surface water samples. The first case considers
the entire Poplar Springs Site as the evaluation area, and options for proceeding when the Site
fails a general screening evaluation. The second case begins with the goal of assessing
several evaluation areas independently within the boundary of the Poplar Springs Site. The
cases are intended only to highlight key steps and concepts of the graded approach, and to
highlight several alternatives within each that would also result in a determination of protection
relative to Dose Rate Guidelines.
Section 76
M1-71
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Purpose:
The purpose of the evaluation was to demonstrate that the Poplar Springs Site (PSS) is in
compliance with DOE’s biota dose limit for aquatic animals pursuant to DOE Order 5400.5 II
3.a.(c)(5): “to protect native animal aquatic organisms, the absorbed does to these organisms shall
not exceed 1 rad/d from exposure to the radioactive material in liquid wastes discharged to natural
waterways.”
1. Data Assembly (Phase 1 of the Graded Approach):
A. Verify Data is Appropriate for a Biota Dose Evaluation
Surface water samples are collected and analyzed to assess the impact of past and current DOE
operations on the quality of local surface water. Sampling locations include streams within the main
plant area and at downstream locations from Poplar Springs Site (PSS) facilities; all are within the
PSS boundary. These sampling stations are located within the Blue Falls Creek Watershed (main
plant and down stream locations) and within other smaller watersheds, all of which flow into the
Darlington River. Surface water data (via the surface water surveillance program) are collected
throughout the year. The sampling frequency is dependant on historical data and the processes or
legacy activities nearby or upstream from these locations. Therefore, sampling occurs at different
locations monthly, bimonthly, quarterly, or semiannually. The sampling locations are presented in
Table 1.
Table 1 Surface Water Sampling Locations for the Poplar Springs Site
Watershed Sampling Locations
Blue Falls Creek
Main Plant–On-site Stream
Locations:
Two Falls Creek TFCK 0.5
Broad Creek BRCK
Northwest Tributary NWTK 0.5
Downstream Locations: Muddy Branch MB 0.6
Blue Falls Creek BFCK 3.0
Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam BFCK 1.4
Other Watersheds Entering Taylor’s Creek TCK 1.0
the Darlington River Beaver Creek BVCK 2.3
B. Request Sampling Data, to Include Maximum and Mean Water and Sediment
Radionuclide Concentrations (co-located if possible) Collected for the Environmental
Monitoring and Surveillance Program at Poplar Springs Site
Environmental surveillance surface water monitoring results were available. However, no on-site
sediment data (co-located with water sampling stations) were available. The data were organized by
collection location and summarized in a table for future use (Table 2). It was determined that the
sampling locations indicated in Table 2 were each representative of individual evaluation areas
within the larger Poplar Springs Site. Each of the evaluation areas were identified because they
provide a good indication of potential impacts to biota in natural waterways within the Poplar Springs
Site.
M1-72
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 2 Measured Radionuclide Concentrations (pCi/L) in Surface Water Collected from the Poplar
Springs Site. Maximum, minimum, and average values are summarized. The maximum
measured radionuclide concentrations observed for the Poplar Springs Site (i.e., across all
sampling locations) are indicated by an (*).
Sampling Location Radionuclide Maximum Minimum Average
Main Plant: On-site station locations:
Two Falls Creek (TFCK 0.5) H-3 530 430 480
Sr 15 15 15
Broad Creek (BRCK) H-3 360 110 240
Sr 290 59 170
*U-234 36 7.7 22
U-235 0.048 0 0.024
U-238 0.52 0.28 0.40
Northwest Tributary (NWTK 0.5) H-3 160 110 140
Sr 71 1.8 36
Downstream Locations:
Muddy Branch (MB 0.6) *Co-60 4.6 -2.8 2.0
Cs-137 3.0 0.0050 1.5
*H-3 760,000 39,000 460,000
*Sr 460 84 250
U-234 0.52 0.15 0.33
U-238 0.50 0.15 0.37
Section 77
Blue Falls Creek (BFCK 3.0) Co-60 1.5 0.034 0.79
*Cs-137 67 12 37
H-3 36,000 3,300 17,000
Sr 330 28 100
U-234 4.8 1.2 3.5
*U-235 0.075 0 0.024
*U-238 2.1 0.24 0.98
Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam (BFCK 1.4) Co-60 3.9 0.58 2.5
Cs-137 40 8.5 12
H-3 140,000 32,000 71,000
Sr 140 54 100
U-234 8.2 1.6 5.0
U-235 0.065 0 0.029
U-238 1.6 0.41 0.95
Other watersheds entering the Darlington River:
Taylor’s Creek (TCK 1.0) Co-60 3.2 0.64 1.9
Beaver Creek (BVCK 2.3) Co-60 1.8 1.6 1.7
H-3 330 180 260
Sr 43 4.8 24
M1-73
DOE-STD-1153-2002
CASE 1. Use of Maximum Measured Radionuclide Concentrations for the Entire Poplar
Springs Site
1. General Screening Evaluation (Phase 2 of the Graded Approach)
A. Enter Data into the RAD-BCG Calculator
Maximum measured radionuclide concentration data for surface water detected for the entire Poplar
Springs Site (i.e., the radionuclide-specific maximum values detected across the entire Site) were
entered into the Aquatic System Data Entry/BCG Worksheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator. The
RAD-BCG Calculator automatically calculated the missing sediment radionuclide concentration data
(e.g., by using the “most probable” radionuclide-specific Kd values) and entered the calculated
radionuclide concentrations into the appropriate fields.
B. Compare Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media with BCGs
The RAD-BCG Calculator automatically calculated the radionuclide-specific partial sum of fractions
for water and sediment, then calculated the total sum of fractions. A summary of the comparisons
for each medium and radionuclide (which is similar in presentation to what you would see in the
Aquatic System Data Entry/BCG Worksheet) is provided in Table 3. Note that this comparison
could also be done manually by using Tables 6.1 - 6.2 and associated guidance contained in
Module 1 of the DOE technical standard. The results indicated that the Poplar Springs Site failed
the general screening evaluation using maximum radionuclide concentration data. Results also
indicated that the water medium appears to be limiting (see partial sum of fractions for water and
sediment, respectively, in Table 3). In addition, Cs-137 and Sr-90 were the radionuclides that
provided the greatest contribution to the total sum of fractions (i.e., they were the most limiting
radionuclides, providing the greatest contribution to potential dose). A riparian animal was indicated
as the limiting organism type for these radionuclides.
Table 3 Aquatic System Evaluation: General Screening Results for Poplar Springs Site using
Maximum Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Surface Water Across the Entire Site
Radionuclide
Maximum Measured Radionuclide
Concentrations (pCi/L)
Water Sum
of Fractions
Sediment Sum
of Fractions
H-3 760,000 2.9E-03 2.03E-06
Sr-90 460 1.70 2.37E-02
U-234 36 1.8E-01 3.42E-04
U-235 0.075 3.4E-04 1.01E-06
U-238 2.1 9.4E-03 4.22E-05
Co-60 4.6 1.2E-03 3.14E-03
Cs-137 67 1.6 1.07E-02
Total of partial sum of
fractions for each medium
3.42 3.80E-02
Total sum of fractions for all
radionuclides and media
3.45
M1-74
DOE-STD-1153-2002
2. Site-Specific Screening using Mean Radionuclide Concentrations in Place of Maximum
Values (Phase 3 of the Graded Approach: Analysis Phase, Site-Specific Screening)
Section 78
It was determined through consultation with site environmental surveillance program personnel that
the quality and quantity of data allowed for averaging of measured radionuclide concentration data
by individual sampling location for the Poplar Springs Site, but not across the entire Site. Guidance
provided in Module 2, Section 3 of the DOE technical standard concerning spatio-temporal
averaging, and guidance provided in Module 2, Section 4 concerning the definition of an evaluation
area was reviewed. It was determined that - although the habitats and presence of the limiting
organism type (in this case a riparian animal) were similar across all sampling locations, radionuclide
data could not be averaged across the entire Poplar Springs Site because: (1) the site was too large
for such an averaging scheme to be sensible, and (2) the contamination profiles (e.g., the
radionuclides detected and their levels) for Main Plant - on-site locations, downstream locations, and
other streams that enter the Darlington River were too different from one another (see Table 2).
However, it was determined that within the downstream locations, data from Blue Falls Creek
(BFCK 3.0) and Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam (BFCK 1.4) station locations could be averaged
over space and time, because of their proximity to each other (e.g., both stations are in the same
water system), and because the contamination profiles, habitats, and limiting organism type (riparian
animal) were determined to be similar across the areas represented by these sampling locations.
Therefore, measured radionuclide concentrations for these two locations were averaged for
subsequent use in site-specific screening. Measured radionuclide concentrations for each of the
remaining sampling locations were averaged by location, consistent with advice from the Site
environmental surveillance program personnel.
A. Enter Data into the RAD-BCG Calculator
The averaging scheme presented above resulted in the need for seven separate evaluations: one
for each of the six individual sampling locations, and one for the combined Blue Falls Creek / Blue
Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam locations. For each evaluation, mean measured radionuclide
concentration data for surface water were entered into the Aquatic System Data Entry/BCG
Worksheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator. The RAD-BCG Calculator automatically calculated the
missing sediment radionuclide concentration data (e.g., by using the “most probable” radionuclide-
specific Kd values) and entered the calculated radionuclide concentrations into the appropriate fields.
B. Compare Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media with BCGs
The RAD-BCG Calculator automatically calculated the radionuclide-specific partial sum of fractions
for water and sediment, then calculated the total sum of fractions. A summary of the comparisons
for each location is provided in Table 4. The results indicated that all of the sampling locations, each
representing an individual evaluation area, passed the site-specific screening.
M1-75
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 4 Aquatic System Evaluation: Site-Specific Screening Results using Mean Radionuclide
Concentrations in Surface Water for Each Evaluation Area
Sampling Location
Average
Concentrations
Sum of
Fractions < 1.0
(Pass/Fail)?
Water
Sum of
Fractions
Sediment
Sum of
Fractions
Total
Sum of
Fractions
Section 79
Main Plant - On-site Locations:
Two Falls Creek (TFCK 0.5) passed 5.39E-02 7.73E-04 0.055
Broad Creek (BRCK) passed 7.21E-01 8.98E-03 0.73
Northwest Tributary (NWTK 0.5) passed 1.29E-01 1.86E-03 0.13
Downstream Locations:
Muddy Branch (MB 0.6) passed 9.38E-01 1.45E-02 0.95
Blue Falls Creek (BFCK 3.0) and Blue Falls
Creek at Blue Falls Dam Station (BFCK 1.4)
(combined)
passed 0.96 1.03E-02 0.97
Other Streams that enter Darlington River:
Taylor’s Creek (TCK 1.0) passed 5.05E-04 1.3E-03 0.002
Beaver Creek (BVCK 2.3) passed 8.66E-02 2.4E-03 0.089
3. Documentation of Results
The results of the biota dose evaluation were summarized. A summary report which contains
computer screen printouts of the spreadsheet results from the RAD-BCG Calculator were retained on
file for future reference. The rationale for using average radionuclide concentration values in place of
maximum values was documented. As required by EH, a summary of the evaluation was included in
the Poplar Springs Site’s Annual Site Environmental Report.
4. Lessons Learned
• All of the downstream station locations corresponding to individual evaluation areas provided the
greatest total sums of fractions. These are clearly good indicator locations for future biota dose
evaluations.
• All of the evaluation areas passed. However, because the total sum of fractions for each of the
downstream locations was very near 1.0, we could consider conducting additional analysis on
these evaluation areas using the analysis phase of the graded approach (refer to the example
provided in CASE 2).
• Possible future activities could include: (1) assessing the need for additional sampling locations;
(2) collecting co-located sediment and water samples for these and other locations; (3) collecting
representative receptors and analyzing tissue data to permit a direct and more realistic dose
evaluation.
M1-76
DOE-STD-1153-2002
CASE 2. Evaluation of Several Evaluation Areas Using Maximum Measured
Radionuclide Concentration Data
1. General Screening Evaluation (Phase 2 of the Graded Approach)
A. Enter Data into the RAD-BCG Calculator
Maximum measured radionuclide concentration data for surface water for each sampling location
(each representative of individual evaluation areas) were entered into the Aquatic System Data
Entry/BCG Worksheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator (i.e., in this case, eight individual evaluations,
one for each sampling location representative of an evaluation area, were conducted). The RAD
BCG Calculator automatically calculated the missing sediment radionuclide concentration data (e.g.,
by using the “most probable” radionuclide-specific Kd values) and entered the calculated
radionuclide concentrations into the appropriate fields.
B. Compare Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media with BCGs
The RAD-BCG Calculator automatically calculated the radionuclide-specific partial sum of fractions
for water and sediment, then calculated the total sum of fractions. A summary of the comparisons
for each location is provided in Table 5. The results indicated that four of the locations evaluated
(Broad Creek, Muddy Branch, Blue Falls Creek, and Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam) failed the
general screening evaluation using maximum radionuclide concentration data. Results also
indicated that the water medium is limiting (see partial sum of fractions for water and sediment,
respectively, in Table 5). It was also determined that Cs-137 and Sr-90 were the radionuclides that
provided the greatest contribution to the total sum of fractions (i.e., they were the most limiting
radionuclides, providing the greatest contribution to potential dose). A riparian animal was the
limiting organism type for these radionuclides.
Section 80
M1-77
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 5 Aquatic System Evaluation: General Screening Results for Poplar Springs Site Using
Maximum Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Surface Water
Sampling Locations
Sum of Fractions < 1.0
(Pass/Fail?)
Using Maximum
Concentrations
Water
Sum of
Fractions
Sediment
Sum of
Fractions
Total
Sum of
Fractions
Main Plant--On-site Locations:
Two Falls Creek (TFCK 0.5) passed 5.39E-02 7.7E-04 0.05
Broad Creek (BRCK) failed 1.22 1.53E-02 1.24
Northwest Tributary (NWTK 0.1) passed 2.55E-01 3.66E-03 0.26
Downstream Locations:
Muddy Branch (MB 0.6) failed 1.73 2.73E-02 1.76
Blue Falls Creek (BFCK 3.0) failed 2.79 2.88E-02 2.82
Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls
Dam (BFCK 1.4)
failed 1.49 1.64E-02 1.51
Other Streams that enter Darlington River:
Taylor’s Creek (TCK 1.0) passed 8.51E-04 2.19E-03 0.003
Beaver Creek (BVCK 2.3) passed 1.55E-01 3.45E-03 0.16
2. Site-Specific Screening using Mean Radionuclide Concentrations in Place of Maximum
Values (Phase 3 of the Graded Approach: Analysis Phase, Site-Specific Screening)
It was determined through consultation with Site environmental surveillance program personnel that the
quality and quantity of data provided for time averaging of measured radionuclide concentration data for
each individual evaluation area. Guidance provided in Module 2, Section 2 of the DOE technical
standard concerning spatio-temporal averaging was also consulted.
A. Enter Data into the RAD-BCG Calculator
Mean radionuclide concentration data for surface water from each of the four sampling locations which
failed the general screening phase were entered into the Aquatic System Data Entry/BCG Worksheet
within the RAD-BCG Calculator (i.e., four separate evaluations were conducted). The RAD-BCG
Calculator automatically calculated the missing sediment radionuclide concentration data (e.g., by using
the “most probable” radionuclide-specific Kd values) and entered the calculated sediment radionuclide
concentrations into the appropriate fields.
M1-78
DOE-STD-1153-2002
B. Compare Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media with BCGs
The RAD-BCG Calculator automatically calculated the radionuclide-specific partial sum of fractions for water
and sediment, then calculated the total sum of fractions. A summary of the comparisons for each location is
provided in Table 6. The results indicated that of the four locations evaluated (Broad Creek, Muddy Branch,
Blue Falls Creek, and Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam), Broad Creek, Muddy Branch, and Blue Falls Creek
at Blue Falls Dam passed the site-specific screening evaluation using mean radionuclide concentration data.
Results also indicated that for the remaining location (Blue Falls Creek - which did not pass the screen), the
water medium is limiting (see partial sum of fractions for water and sediment, respectively, in Table 6). It was
also determined that Cs-137 and Sr-90 were the radionuclides that provided the greatest contribution to the
total sum of fractions (i.e., they were the most limiting radionuclides, providing the greatest contribution to
potential dose).
Table 6 Aquatic System Evaluation: Site-Specific Screening Results for the Poplar Springs Site using Mean
Radionuclide Concentrations in Surface Water
Sampling Location Average Concentrations
Sum of Fractions < 1.0
(Pass/Fail?)
Water
Sum of
Fractions
Sediment
Sum of
Fractions
Total
Sum of
Fractions
Main Plant--On-site Locations:
Section 81
Two Falls Creek (TFCK 0.5) (passed in general screen) -
Broad Creek (BRCK) passed 7.21E-01 8.98E-03 0.73
Northwest Tributary (NWTK 0.5) (passed in general screen) -
Downstream Locations:
Muddy Branch (MB 0.6) passed 9.38E-01 1.45E-02 0.975
Blue Falls Creek (BFCK 3.0) failed 1.25 1.17E-02 1.26
Blue Falls Creek at Blue Falls Dam (BFCK 1.4) passed 6.70E-01 8.85E-03 0.68
Other Streams that enter Darlington River:
Taylor’s Creek (TCK 1.0) (passed in general screen) -
Beaver Creek (BVCK 2.3) (passed in general screen) -
3. Site-Specific Screening using Site-Representative Parameter Values in Place of Default Values
(Phase 3 of the Graded Approach, Site-Specific Screening)
Further efforts were directed at modifying some of the default parameters used in the site-specific screening
portion of the graded approach, replacing them with more site-representative values.
A. Review of Data and Parameters for Blue Falls Creek (BFCK 3.0)
Because both maximum and average surface water concentrations collected at Blue Falls Creek exceeded the
BCGs in general screening and site-specific screening, respectively, it was necessary to review the data used,
limiting organism type responsible for the BCGs, limiting media, and area of evaluation. A summary of this
review is provided in Table 7.
M1-79
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 7 Review of Radionuclide Concentration Data and Limiting Organism Type to Determine
Path Forward in the Biota Dose Evaluation
Review the Following: Comment
Sampling/Data Frequency -- adequate? Surface water samples were collected and analyzed bimonthly
(Jan, March, May, Jul, Sep, Nov):
considered to be adequate.
Possible Future Activities:
* Consider possible need to increase sampling frequency
(contact appropriate personnel)
* Consider collection of co-located sediment samples (see
below)
Radionuclides of concern? Cs-137 and Sr-90 are the limiting radionuclides contributing
the most to the total sum of fractions at this location.
Water is the limiting medium; sediment contributes to dose but
is not the limiting medium.
Maximum and average concentrations detected in surface
water for this location:
Cs-137: Maximum: 67; Average: 37 pCi/L
Sr-90: Maximum: 330; Average: 100 pCi/L
Are the limiting organism types used to
derive BCGs reasonable?
Riparian animal -- yes, this receptor is feasible for the
evaluation area. Known to be resident.
Consider re-defining or modifying the
evaluation area?
Radionuclide data was already time-averaged to generate
mean concentrations which are representative of the
evaluation area. The location from which the radionuclide
concentrations were detected is considered to be a
representative indicator for site impacts on natural waterways.
No additional modifications to the delineation of the evaluation
area will be conducted.
M1-80
DOE-STD-1153-2002
B. Consider Replacing Default Lumped Parameter Values with Site-Representative Values
The major issues for this evaluation were Cs-137 and Sr-90 surface water concentrations.
Therefore, the focus was on the radionuclide-specific default lumped parameters used to derive the
BCGs for these two radionuclides.
Section 82
The Riparian Animal Spreadsheet contained in the RAD-BCG Calculator (and contained in Module 1
Table 7.2 of the DOE technical standard) was reviewed to identify the default lumped parameter
values (see Table 8 below for a summary). Available site data was reviewed for site-representative
lumped parameter values for riparian animals (the limiting organism type for Cs-137 and Sr-90).
After making some preliminary inquiries with site personnel, it was determined that there were no
easily-accessible site-specific lumped parameter data for riparian animals. A more extensive search
could have been performed (e.g., making contact with other DOE site representatives; conducting a
literature search), but it was decided to move on to the site-specific analysis component of the
graded approach, focusing on reviewing and potentially modifying additional default parameters and
assumptions used in the analysis phase.
Table 8 Default Lumped Parameter Values Used to Derive Generic Water BCGs for Riparian
Animals
Radionuclide Lumped Parameter Bq/kg (animal
wet weight) per Bq/L(water)
Cs-137 50,000
Sr-90 6,000
Comment
A preliminary search at the Site indicated no
known or easily accessible site-specific data for
estimating site-specific lumped parameters for
riparian animals.
A preliminary search at the Site indicated no
known or easily accessible site-specific data for
estimating site-specific lumped parameters for
riparian animals.
4. Site-Specific Analysis Using Site-Representative Parameter Values and Assumptions in
Place of Default Values (Phase 3 of the Graded Approach, Site-Specific Analysis)
A. Review Default Parameter Values and Consider Replacing with Site-Representative Values
A number of default parameters which are used in estimating a riparian animal’s internal dose can
be considered for modification in site-specific analysis. The default parameters for a riparian animal
were reviewed by accessing the Riparian Animal Spreadsheet in the RAD-BCG Calculator (also
contained in Module 1, Tables 7.5 and 7.6 of the DOE technical standard). These parameters are
summarized in Table 9 below.
M1-81
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 9 Review of Default Parameter Values for Possible Modification Using Site-Representative
Values
Parameter Default Value Site-Specific Values?
Appropriate Riparian Raccoon Default organism is known to be resident at the site.
Receptor?
Fraction of intake retained No known site specific evaluations to conclude otherwise.
Cs-137
1 Default values were used to be conservative.
Sr-90
0.3
Biological Decay Constant No known site specific evaluations to conclude otherwise.
Cs-137 2.24E-02 Default values were used to be conservative.
Sr-90
6.11E-04
Correction Factor for Area or 1.0 No known site specific evaluations to conclude otherwise.
The organism would be expected to be resident in the
evaluation area 100% of the time.
Time
Dose Limits for Riparian 0.1 rad/d Default dose limit used for riparian animals. Can not be
changed without DOE-EH-41 approval. Animals
Body Mass 8800 g Default value. Default value was used to be conservative.
Other Kinetic/Allometric Allometric A cursory review of the default values for these parameters
equations and was made. It was decided to use the default values and
related input
Relationship Parameters
equations rather than to obtain more site-representative values
Section 83
parameters for use in the kinetic/allometric models employed in the
representing analysis phase of the graded approach. However, the aquatic
mechanisms to animal food source Biv value used as the default
internal dose to a food source to the riparian animal was reviewed (in the Aquatic
riparian animal. Animal Spreadsheet) and subsequently modified.
Each of the contributing parameters could have been reviewed in detail, with the objective of
identifying values more representative of site-specific receptors. It was determined through contact
with aquatic biologists and radioecologists at the Poplar Springs Site that a reasonable amount of data
relating to bioaccumulation factors (Bivs) for fish was available at relevant Poplar Springs Site locations
for the Blue Falls Creek evaluation area. Data exists for fish at or near Blue Falls Creek (BFCK 3.0)
for Cs-137 and there is some data for Sr-90 in whole fish collected on-site in nearby waterways having
similar water chemistry. It was determined that these fish were representative of the expected food
sources to a riparian animal at the evaluation area, and that their Bivs would provide more
representative food source values to a site-specific riparian animal, in place of the default values used.
With the assistance of the aquatic specialists, site-specific Cs-137 and Sr-90 concentrations measured
in fish and in surface water were used to estimate Bivs applicable to the Blue Falls Creek evaluation
area. The data and resulting Bivs are shown in Tables 10 and 11.
M1-82
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 10 Site-Specific Bioaccumulation Information for Cesium-137
Species Water Concentration
(Bq/L)
Tissue Concentration
(Bq/kg)1
Bioaccumulation
Factor (L/kg)2
Reference
Bluegill 1.52 Bq/L BFCK 2.9 (N=7): 1040 PSS/TM-11295 - Third
7900 ± 3400 Bq/kg dw Report of the PSS BMAP
BFCK 2.3 (N=5): 605 for Blue Falls Creek
4600 ± 752 Bq/kg dw Watershed and the
Darlington River (Tables
8.2-water and 8.11-fish)
Sunfish 5.2 Bq/L BFCK 3.5 (N=8): 830 PSS/TM-10804 - Second
(includes 21600 ± 2200 Bq/kg dw Report of the PSS BMAP
bluegill and BFCK 2.9 (N=8) 1150 for Blue Falls Creek
redbreast 29800 ± 9100 Bq/kg dw Watershed and the
sunfish) BFCK 2.3 (N=8): 520 Darlington River (Table
13600 ± 8400 Bq/kg dw 8.23)
Water Data Table 5.2.26
Environmental
Surveillance of the PSS
and Surrounding
Environs (ES/ESH-1/V2)
Redbreast 1.52 Bq/L BFCK 2.9 (N=5): PSS/TM-11295- Third
Sunfish 7600 ± 1300 Bq/kg dw 1000 Report of the PSS BMAP
for Blue Falls Creek
Watershed and the
Darlington River (Tables
8.2-water and 8.11-fish)
1 Tissue concentrations were measured in fish fillets. It is assumed that the tissue concentrations in fillets are
representative of whole body concentrations. This is appropriate, given that Cs-137 is known to concentrate in
muscle tissues.
2 It is assumed that fish are about 80% water; therefore, the dry weight off fish is multiplied by 0.2 to convert dry
weight to wet weight.
M1-83
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 11 Site-Specific Bioaccumulation Information for Strontium-90
Species Water Concentration
(Bq/L)
Tissue Concentration
(Bq/kg)
Bioaccumulation
Factor (L/kg)
Reference
Bluegill 4.8 Bq/L 520 ± 140 Bq/kg ww 110 PSS/TM-10804 - Second
(1987) Report of the PSS BMAP
(Whole body) N=5 for Blue Falls Creek
Watershed and the
Darlington River (Table
8.1) Blue Falls Creek
Water Data Table 2.2.1
Environmental
Surveillance of the PSS
and Surrounding
Environs (ES/ESH-4/V2).
Gizzard 4.8 Bq//L 370 ± 360 Bq/kg ww 80 PSS/TM-10804 - Second
Shad (1987)
Section 84
(Whole body)
N=5
Report of the PSS BMAP
for Blue Falls Creek
Watershed and the
Darlington River (Table
8.1) Blue Falls Creek
Water Data Table 2.2.1
Environmental
Surveillance of the PSS
and Surrounding
Environs (ES/ESH-4/V2)
Largemouth 4.8 Bq/L 230 ± 120 Bq/kg ww 50 PSS/TM-10804 - Second
Bass (1987)
(Whole body)
N=5
Report of the PSS BMAP
for Blue Falls Creek
Watershed and the
Darlington River (Table
8.1) Blue Falls Creek
Water Data Table 2.2.1
Environmental
Surveillance of the PSS
and Surrounding
Environs (ES/ESH-4/V2)
M1-84
DOE-STD-1153-2002
B. Modification of Default Biv Values for Organisms Consumed by the Limiting Organism
The Aquatic Animal Spreadsheet within the RAD-BCG Calculator was accessed and the default Biv
values for Cs-137 and Sr-90 were reviewed. Based on literature reviews, calculated values (Table
10 and Table 11), and consultations with the aquatic specialists, the following site-specific Bivs for
fish were selected:
Cs-137: 1150 (L/kg). Most conservative estimated bioaccumulation factor for fish
collected at or near the sampling location (BFCK 2.9).
Sr-90: 110 (L/kg). Most conservative estimated bioaccumulation factor for fish collected on the
Poplar Springs Site.
Enter Site-Representative Parameter Values into the RAD-BCG Calculator
First, the “allometric BCGs” button on the Riparian Animal Spreadsheet of the RAD-BCG Calculator
was selected. This selection allowed the calculation of BCGs using the kinetic/allometric method.
Then, the Aquatic Animal Spreadsheet of the RAD-BCG Calculator was accessed, and the default
Biv values for Cs-137 and Sr-90 were replaced by entering the site-specific Biv values listed above.
A “user supplied value” message appeared in the Aquatic Animal Spreadsheet to provide a
reminder that default values had been modified. The BCGs for Cs-137 and Sr-90 were
automatically updated within the RAD-BCG Calculator to reflect these site-specific input values. The
site-specific BCGs for these two radionuclides were shown in the Riparian Animal Spreadsheet, and
in the Aquatic System Data Entry/BCG Worksheet - where our mean measured radionuclide
concentration data was previously entered. A new partial and total sum of fractions were
automatically calculated by the RAD-BCG Calculator.
Compare Measured Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media with BCGs
Due to the adjustment of the Cesium-137 Biv to 1150 and the Sr-90 Biv to 110, the total sum of
fractions for Blue Falls Creek was less than 1.0, indicating that we passed the site-specific analysis.
It is also noteworthy that - had we used the site-specific food source Biv values compared with
maximum measured radionuclide concentration data rather than mean values, the total sum of
fractions for our riparian animal would also have passed. This would be a useful approach if we
were required by regulators or stakeholders to use only maximum measured radionuclide
concentrations in our evaluation. This point highlights one example regarding the flexibility of the
graded approach.
M1-85
DOE-STD-1153-2002
5. Documentation of Results
The results of the biota dose evaluation were summarized. A summary report containing computer
screen printouts of the spreadsheets from the RAD-BCG Calculator were retained on file for future
reference. The rationale for selecting site-representative Bivs as a food source value to a riparian
animal was documented. As required by EH, a summary of the evaluation was included in the
Poplar Springs Site’s Annual Site Environmental Report.
Section 85
6. Lessons Learned
• Possible future activities could include: (1) assessing the need for additional sampling locations;
(2) collecting co-located sediment and water samples for these and other locations; (3)
collecting representative receptors and analyzing tissue data to permit a direct and more realistic
dose evaluation.
M1-86
DOE-STD-1153-2002
A Graded Approach for
Evaluating Radiation Doses to
Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota
MODULE 2
DETAILED GUIDANCE
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
DOE-STD-1153-2002
1 The Graded Approach, Ecological Risk Assessment, and Guidance
on Their Implementation in Evaluating Radiation Doses to Biota
The graded approach was made available to DOE field and program elements and to external
users for a trial use period beginning in July 2000 as an interim version of this technical
standard. The purpose of the trial period was to give users an opportunity to become familiar
with and implement the graded approach at their sites, and to have an opportunity to provide
suggestions and lessons learned to the BDAC regarding any refinements and associated
guidance that needed to be incorporated into the graded approach prior to finalizing the
technical standard. During this trial period the graded approach received strong interest and
requests from many national and international organizations. Some of these organizations had
an interest in applying the graded approach in support of additional types of environmental
assessments.
1.1 Purpose of this Section
This section of the technical standard was added to be responsive to those individuals who,
during the trial use period of the graded approach:
• requested guidance on the relationship between the graded approach and the Ecological
Risk Assessment (ERA) framework typically used for the evaluation of chemical stressors to
the environment;
• requested guidance on how to utilize the graded approach in support of other types of
environmental assessments; and
• requested guidance on the technical elements and issues inherent in evaluating radiation as
a stressor to the environment which are different from those encountered when evaluating
chemical stressors to the environment. The individuals requesting this guidance indicated
that they had experience in working with the ERA framework for chemicals but little
experience in working with radiological risk assessment.
This section also provides a general orientation and “roadmap” to the remaining Sections of
Module 2 containing detailed guidance on specific biota dose evaluation issues that may be
encountered when implementing the graded approach. This guidance is also applicable to
radiological ERAs.
1.2 Relationship of the Graded Approach and the Ecological Risk Assessment
(ERA) Framework
Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) is a process for logically organizing and evaluating
information to determine the nature, likelihood, and magnitude of potential impacts on
environmental receptors (Suter 1993). The ERA framework consists of three general steps:
problem formulation, analysis of exposure and effects, and risk characterization. ERAs are
M2-1
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Section 86
typically done in successively rigorous tiers, each of which includes the three general ERA
steps (Suter et al. 2000). The first and simplest tier is a scoping assessment, which establishes
the need for an ERA. The second tier consists of a screening ERA, which is relatively simple
and conservative in its application and assumptions. The third tier is a definitive ERA, which
provides a relatively detailed and realistic assessment of the nature and magnitude of risks.
The ERA framework is general in nature and has been widely applied in the evaluation of
chemical stressors to the environment. The ERA framework can be applied to the evaluation of
radiation as a stressor to the environment, but not without some modifications and provision of
additional guidance. Some issues are the same as for chemicals, but some are unique to
radionuclides.
The graded approach for evaluating radiation doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota is consistent
with the standard ecological risk assessment (ERA) paradigm (EPA 1998). As in the standard
ERA paradigm, the graded approach provides several tiers that move from a simple and
relatively conservative screening evaluation to a more detailed and realistic assessment. Each
step in the graded approach addresses, either explicitly or implicitly, the principal ERA
components. That is, the graded approach is a framework for organizing the successively
rigorous ERA tiers, but with a particular emphasis on radioecological issues.
1.3 Principal and Alternative Uses of the Graded Approach
The principal driver and basis of need for developing the graded approach was to provide DOE
field and program elements with methods for demonstrating compliance with DOE biota dose
limits and recommendations for radiological protection of the environment. Thus, many of the
decisions that are traditionally made when conducting a case-specific ERA (e.g., choice of
indicator receptors; defining receptor exposure profiles; selection of effects endpoints) were
made at a programmatic level and incorporated into the screening phase of the graded
approach a priori. For example, the thresholds for adverse effects were set at the
recommended limits for protection of natural populations of biota. Those are the appropriate
effects levels for demonstrating compliance with DOE requirements and recommendations for
the protection of the environment from ionizing radiation (Module 1, Section 1.2).
The graded approach and BCGs can be used in support of other types of environmental
assessments, provided that the user ensures that issues specific to the alternative application
are appropriately addressed. Examples of other types of environmental assessments that the
graded approach could potentially support include: ERAs at hazardous waste sites (i.e.,
Superfund sites), assessments for waste disposal and other facilities, and assessments at
various stages of the Natural Resource Damage Assessment (NRDA) process. These typically
include retrospective assessments of previously contaminated areas. These could also include
prospective assessments of migrating contaminants (e.g., groundwater plumes) and planned
releases (e.g., NEPA alternatives analysis).
M2-2
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Section 87
If the graded approach is used for these or other purposes, then the programmatic objectives
and the methods and model assumptions should be re-evaluated and discussed with the
relevant decision makers and stakeholders, preferably via the Data Quality Objectives (DQO)
process (Bilyard et al. 1997) or comparable processes to ensure that the results obtained
through application of the graded approach will support the management goals and objectives
of the environmental assessment. Module 1, Section 3 provides additional information on
principal and potential applications of the graded approach along with specific application
considerations.
1.4 Technical Issues to be Considered when Evaluating Radiation as a Stressor
to the Environment
As mentioned earlier, the ERA framework is general in nature and can be applied to the
assessment of radiation doses to biota. However, there are some noteworthy technical issues
concerning the evaluation of radiation as a stressor that require further consideration and
elaboration. To our knowledge, standardized guidance on how to address these issues is not
available elsewhere.
In response to requests for guidance on this topic, Section 1.4 serves as a basic “primer” on
technical issues that should be considered when evaluating radiation as a stressor to the
environment, and draws on the experiences gained by BDAC members in developing the
graded approach and conducting radiological ERAs. It focuses on key biota dose assessment
issues identified in the graded approach. To facilitate communication of guidance on this topic,
this section was intentionally written and organized with an orientation to those familiar with the
ERA framework for chemicals. The issues, and an explanation of how they are addressed in
the graded approach, are described below within the context of the ERA framework.
1.4.1 Problem Formulation
The first step of an ERA involves a formulation of the problem, in which the purpose of the
assessment is clearly defined, the problem is clearly stated, and a plan for analyzing and
characterizing risks is developed (Figure 1.1). This entails identifying the spatial and temporal
bounds of the assessment, identifying the potential stressors and receptors, selecting
assessment endpoints, developing a site conceptual model, selecting appropriate measures of
exposure and effects, and developing an analysis plan (EPA 1998; Suter et al. 2000).
1.4.1.1 Scope of the Assessment
One of the first steps in problem formulation is to define the spatial and temporal scope of the
assessment. The proposed spatial bounds of the assessment will determine which of the
potential assessment endpoints are of an appropriate scale for the site. Conversely,
identification of specific endpoints of concern can be used to set the spatial scale of the
M2-3
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Integrate Available
Inform ation
Integrate Available
Inform ation
As Necessary:
Acquire D ata,
Iterate Process,
M onitor R esults
Conceptual
Model
Assessment
Endpoints
Conceptual
Model
Analysis
P lanP lan
P lanning
(R isk Assessor/
R isk Manager/
Interested Parties
D ia logue)
ANANAALLYYSSIISS
Figure 1.1 Problem Formulation, Phase 1 of Dose Assessment
(from EPA 1998)
assessment. Establishing the physical scope of an assessment is addressed in more detail in
Module 2, Section 4 and elsewhere (Suter et al. 2000).
Section 88
The temporal scope of the assessment is determined by the types of exposures and effects that
are anticipated. With the exception of rare accidents (e.g., Chernobyl), radiological ERAs are
concerned with long-term, low-level exposures that are appropriately evaluated as chronic
exposures. Thus, the temporal scope is generally not less than a week and more frequently on
the order of months to a year. Aggregation of data across time and space is addressed in
Module 2, Section 3.
1.4.1.2 Stressor Characteristics
Unlike standard ERAs, radiological ERAs are by definition focused on one stressor, ionizing
radiation resulting from the decay of unstable isotopes that have been released to the
environment. Many of the stressor characteristics that must be considered when developing a
conceptual model and selecting endpoints are the same for radionuclides as for non-radioactive
chemicals, because fate and transport of radionuclides in the environment is generally
determined by elemental properties, rather than isotopic properties. For example, biological
uptake and partitioning among ambient media will be similar for 235U and stable uranium.
However, there are also several radiation-specific characteristics that must be considered when
developing the conceptual model and analysis plan. These include: (1) variation in penetrating
power and damage potential of the radiations of primary concern in radioactive decay (i.e.,
alpha particles, electrons, and photons); (2) additivity of exposure when Radiation Weighting
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Factors (RWFs) are used; (3) external exposure; and (4) exposure from radioactive decay
products (progeny), the environmental fate of which is often different from the parent
radionuclide. These issues are discussed below.
1.4.1.3 Assessment Endpoints
Assessment endpoints are an explicit expression of the environmental value that is to be
protected, operationally defined by an ecological entity and its attributes (EPA 1998). For
example, the fish community is a possible assessment endpoint entity and reduced
reproduction is a possible assessment endpoint attribute. Of the recommended criteria for
selecting and defining assessment endpoints (EPA 1998; Suter et al. 2000), relevance to
management goals and susceptibility require elaboration for use in radiological ERAs.
Ensuring the relevance of the assessment endpoints to management goals includes selecting
ecological entities and attributes that are valued by society. Most reviews and guidance identify
populations as the lowest level of organization appropriate for assessing the effects of radiation
on ecological receptors (NCRP 1991; IAEA 1992; UNSCEAR 1996). Therefore, the graded
approach focuses on Population-Relevant Attributes (PRAs), such as reproduction (Module 1,
Section 1.2). Although the effects data for PRAs are based on studies of individual organisms,
it is the viability of the population as a whole, rather than the viability of any given individual in
the population, that is of interest. Management goals for alternative applications of the graded
approach may include a need to protect individual organisms (e.g., protection of threatened and
endangered species).
Several key issues that should be considered when determining the appropriate criteria and
exposure-response assumptions for protecting individual organisms in a population are
presented in Module 2, Section 8. However, final selection criteria and exposure-response
assumptions should be made in consultation with the appropriate decision makers if the graded
approach is to be used for this alternative purpose.
Section 89
Susceptibility to the stressor is a function of exposure and sensitivity. Exposure is typically
defined as co-occurrence or contact of the receptor with the stressor, i.e., ionizing radiation.
Sensitivity refers to how readily the endpoint entity responds to the stressor. Sensitivity to
radiation (radiosensitivity) of major taxonomic groups and life stages is discussed below. One
should also consider life history and habitat when selecting susceptible receptors, with highly
exposed and sensitive life-stages taking precedence. In general, recommended endpoint
entities include aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates and higher plants (e.g., Pinus species and
other woody plants). In contrast, invertebrates and primitive plants (e.g., mosses and lichens)
are generally not appropriate assessment endpoint entities, because they are comparatively
insensitive to the direct effects of irradiation.
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Three generic assessment endpoints were selected for use in the graded approach, based on
the issues mentioned above and the availability of relevant exposure and effects data. The
selected endpoints are:
• Observable reductions of survival or reproductive capability in natural aquatic animal
populations.
• Observable reductions of survival or reproductive capability in natural terrestrial animal
populations.
• Observable reductions of survival or productivity of terrestrial plant populations.
1.4.1.4 Conceptual Model
Developing a conceptual model of the site entails describing and visually depicting the
relationships between the stressors and the endpoint entities (ASTM 1995, EPA 1998, and
Suter 1996). The conceptual model includes the known and expected relationships among the
stressors, pathways, and assessment endpoints which are considered in the assessment and a
rationale for their inclusion. Relationships that cannot or will not be addressed should be
identified and a rationale for their exclusion should be provided. The conceptual models for the
graded approach are illustrated in Figures 2.1 through 2.4 in Module 2, Section 2.1.2. These
generic conceptual models depict the typical radiation exposure pathways for biota that may be
evaluated using the graded approach. Some or all components of these models may be used
for a specific application of the graded approach. Additional conceptual models could be
developed for alternative applications of the graded approach, possibly as part of the DQO
process.
1.4.1.5 Analysis Plan
The final stage of problem formulation is development of an analysis plan. This includes
delineation of the assessment design, data needs, measures, and methods for conducting the
analysis step of the assessment (EPA 1998). This encompasses most of the information
contained in the graded approach. For example, Module 1 of this technical standard provides a
description of the assessment design, general guidance on data needs, and detailed directions
for conducting an evaluation using the graded approach. Modules 2 and 3 provide additional
details and guidance on these issues. That is, the graded approach is a detailed analysis
plan for determining whether or not a DOE site is in compliance with DOE requirements
and recommendations for the protection of aquatic and terrestrial biota from ionizing
radiation.
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1.4.1.6 Measures
Section 90
Of the components of the analysis plan, measures warrant further elaboration with respect to
radiological assessments. Measures, formerly referred to simply as measurement endpoints,
consist of measures of effects, measures of exposure, and measures of ecosystem and
receptor characteristics (EPA 1998). Measures of effects include: survival of plants and
animals and changes in reproduction (i.e., the processes from gametogenesis to embryonic
development) of plants and animals. Measures of exposure include: (1) radiation dose rates to
aquatic animals and terrestrial plants and animals, and (2) radionuclide concentrations in
ambient media or biota at levels commensurate with selected radiation dose rates to aquatic
animals and terrestrial plants and animals. Measures of ecosystem characteristics include the
abundance and distribution of suitable habitat. Measures of receptor characteristics include
feeding and migratory behaviors and natural reproduction, growth, and mortality rates.
Measures of exposure and effects were selected for the purpose of demonstrating protection
through compliance with DOE requirements and the recommendations contained in the graded
approach (Module 1, Section 1.1). Key selected measures of effects are the dose rates at
which measurable reductions in reproduction of plants and animals are not expected (i.e., the
expected safe levels of exposure). Key selected measures of exposure are the concentrations
of radionuclides in ambient media that are expected to result in those dose rates. More
specifically, the critical measures of exposure/effects selected for use in the graded approach
are 1 rad/d for aquatic animals and terrestrial plants and 0.1 rad/d for riparian and terrestrial
animals (Module 1, Section 1.1). The default assumptions related to the measures used in the
graded approach can be modified for alternative applications.
1.5 Analysis
The second step in the risk assessment process is analysis, which consists of analyses of
exposure and effects (EPA 1998). These analyses are typically done concurrently and
itteratively (Figure 1.2)
1.5.1 Exposure Analysis
Exposure is the contact or co-occurrence of a contaminant with a receptor. The exposure
analysis estimates the magnitude of exposure in terms of intensity, space, and time in units that
can be combined with the effects analysis (EPA 1998). It entails describing the sources and
distribution of the stressors through space and time, evaluating transport and exposure
pathways, and describing the contact or co-occurrence with the receptor. The degree of detail
and conservatism in the analysis of exposure depends on the tier of the assessment. The bulk
of the guidance provided in the graded approach addresses exposure analysis.
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PPRROBOBLLEEMM FFORORMMUULLAATTIIOONN
Characterization
of Exposure
Characterization
of Ecological Effects
Measures
of
E ffec t
Measures
of
Effect
Measures of
Ecosystem
and Receptor
Characteris tics
Exposure Ecological Response
Analysis Analysis
Characterization
of Exposure
Characterization
of Ecological E ffects
Measures
of
E ffec t
M easures
of
Effect
Measures of
Ecosystem
and Receptor
Chara cteris tics
Exposure Ecological Response
Analysis Analysis
elifoPr
erusopExExposure
ProfileExposure
Profile
Stressor-
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Exposure
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Stressor-
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Profile
AsAs NeNecceessssaarryy::
AAccququiirree DDatataa,,
ItIteeraratete PProrocceessss,,
MMoonniitotorr RReessuulltsts
Section 91
RIRISSKK
CCHHARARACACTTEERRIIZZAATTIIOONN
Figure 1.2 Analysis, Phase 2 of Dose Assessment (from EPA 1998)
For example, describing the sources and distribution of the stressors through space and time is
addressed in the guidance on spatial and temporal averaging (Module 2, Section 3); evaluating
transport and exposure pathways is addressed in the guidance on soil sampling relative to plant
rooting depths (Module 2, Section 5); and describing the contact or co-occurrence with the
receptor is addressed in the guidance on sources, receptors, and routes of exposure (Module
2, Section 2).
The radiation-specific characteristics mentioned above are addressed in the graded approach
as follows:
• Variation in penetrating power refers to the fact that electrons and photons can
penetrate tissues and at least some amount of ambient media, whereas alphas particles
cannot. A corollary to penetrating ability is the potential of each type of radiation to
cause biological damage. Alpha particles are non-penetrating because they are
relatively large, which also means they have a high linear energy transfer. Electrons
and photons have a low linear energy transfer. This is the basis for the greater
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biological effectiveness of alpha particles relative to that of electrons and photons
(Module 2, Section 7).
• Additivity of exposure refers to the fact that the absorbed dose (or dose rate) of ionizing
radiation from all media, radionuclides, and radiations can and should be added
together, provided one accounts for relative biological effectiveness (i.e., appropriate
radiation weighting factors are used). This stems from the fact that the expected safe
levels of exposure are based on the total absorbed dose of ionizing radiation from low
linear energy transfer radiations (Module 2, Section 7).
• External exposure refers to the ability of a radionuclide to affect an ecological receptor
without the radionuclide being taken into the receptor. This highlights the fact that the
stressor of concern is ionizing radiation, rather than the individual radionuclides that give
off that radiation. External exposure pathways are conceptualized in Module 2, Section
2.1.2 and quantified in Module 3, Section 2.
• Exposure from radioactive decay products refers to the fact that radioactive decay of
one isotope may result in one or more new isotopes which are also radioactive. These
decay products (progeny) may be short-lived, existing for only seconds or hours before
decaying again to produce isotope-specific radiations and additional decay products
(radioactive or stable). Relatively long-lived isotopes may be detected in the
environment, whereas short-lived progeny might not be detected. Consequently, the
absorbed dose from short-lived radioactive progeny is included in the exposure
calculations for the long-lived parent isotope (Module 3, Section 2).
1.5.2 Effects Analysis
The effects analysis estimates the nature and magnitude of effects with respect to the
magnitude and duration of exposure (i.e., dose or dose rate) (EPA 1998; Suter et al. 2000). It
entails evaluating and summarizing the effects data in a way that facilitates relating effects to
the exposure estimates. Unlike the analysis of exposure, the analysis of effects is not
discussed extensively in the graded approach. This is because achieving the primary objective
of the graded approach, i.e., compliance with the DOE requirements and recommendations,
obviates the need for the user to select and justify the effects data and assumptions. That is,
key decisions about the effects evaluated in the graded approach were made at the
programmatic level, rather than at the site-specific level.
Section 92
Three aspects of the analysis of radiation effects on biota are explicitly discussed in the graded
approach: expected safe levels of exposure, radiation weighting factors (RWFs), and
radiosensitivity of various receptors and attributes. The expected safe levels of exposure are
the bases for the DOE requirements and recommendations for protection of aquatic and
terrestrial biota from ionizing radiation (Module 1, Section 1.2.2). They are based on reviews of
the available data for acute and chronic effects of radiation on population relevant attributes of
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aquatic and terrestrial biota. The radiosensitivity of various receptors and attributes were used
to select the default assessment endpoints used in the graded approach. Radiosensitivity
generally increases with increasing organism complexity. However, radiosensitivity can vary by
one or more orders of magnitude among phylogenetically similar species (UNSCEAR 1996).
Life stage also affects radiosensitivity, with reproductive processes and the early stages of
development generally being the most radiosensitive due to the ongoing activities of cell
division and differentiation.
Radiation weighting factors (RWFs) account for the fact that all types of ionizing radiation are
not the same with respect to their biological effectiveness (Module 2, Section 7). They are
based on observed relative biological effectiveness (RBE) factors (i.e., the inverse ratio of
doses causing the same level of effect) and are used to normalize the different types of ionizing
radiation (i.e. alpha, electrons, and photons). The use of RWFs allows one to sum the
absorbed dose rates calculated in the exposure analysis for each type of ionizing radiation to
obtain a biologically significant total dose rate.
The default effects thresholds and radiation weighting factors used in the graded approach (and
the associated RAD-BCG Calculator) can be changed to support alternative uses of the graded
approach. For example, the expected safe level of exposure for populations of terrestrial
animals might be divided by a safety factor (e.g., 10) when evaluating the potential for adverse
effects on individuals of a threatened or endangered species (Module 2, Section 8).
Conversely, the default radiation weighting factor of 20 for alpha particles might be reduced to 5
to be more consistent with the relative biological effects data for deterministic effects (Module 2,
Section 7).
1.6 Risk Characterization
Risk characterization is the final assessment step (Figure 1.3). It entails combining the results
of the exposure and the effects analysis to provide an estimate of the probability and magnitude
of adverse effects (risks) at the site in question. The risks should be described in the context of
the significance of the effects and available data; the uncertainties, assumptions, and qualifiers
should be identified and summarized (EPA 1998). Risk characterization is often classified as
either part of a screening assessment or a definitive assessment. Screening assessments are
typically based on relatively simplistic exposure and effects assumptions (e.g., maximum
exposure and a single threshold for effects). Definitive assessments typically include detailed
exposure models and, to the extent possible, site-specific biological effects data (e.g., toxicity
tests with ambient media and demographic surveys of the receptors).
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Section 93
Risk characterization in the graded approach is mostly of the screening-type, where exposure
estimates of varying conservatism and complexity are compared with a threshold for effects for
each type of receptor (see Module 1, Sections 6, 7.1, and 7.2). Definitive risk characterization
in the graded approach is generally limited to the site-specific biota dose assessments, for
which general guidance is provided (Module 1, Section 7.3).
The particular screening risk characterization method used in the graded approach is the sum
of fractions rule. This is conceptually analogous to the standard risk characterization technique
for calculating hazard quotients (HQs) and a hazard index (i.e., sum of multiple HQs). It entails
dividing the concentration of a radionuclide measured in the ambient media by the Biota
Concentration Guide (BCG) for that radionuclide and the selected assessment endpoint (i.e.,
Figure 1.3 Risk Characterization, Phase 3 of Dose Assessment
(from EPA 1998)
calculating the BCG fraction). The Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) are screening values
that incorporate default exposure assumptions and the effects threshold for the receptor to be
evaluated. The BCG fractions are summed for each assessment endpoint (receptor), because
the DOE requirements and recommendations are based on the total weighted absorbed
radiation dose rate from all radionuclides and pathways.
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INTENTIONALLY BLANK
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2 Guidance on Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure
This section provides guidance and factors to consider when defining sources, receptors, and
routes of exposure for application in the DOE graded approach.
2.1 General Considerations for Identifying Sources, Receptors, and Exposure
Pathways
Exposure pathways are functions of the characteristics of the media in which the sources occur,
and how both the released radionuclides and the receptors interact with those media. Many
potential pathways exist at any given site that supports plants and animals and at which
released radionuclides are found. The information presented below in Table 2.1 should
generally be considered during the data assembly phase of the graded approach, and should
specifically be considered in more detail during the analysis phase of the graded approach.
Table 2.1 General Considerations for Defining Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure
Biogeochemical • The biogeochemical properties of the released radionuclides are important
Properties of because they determine the forms of the material in environmental media
Radionuclides (i.e., solid, liquid, gaseous, dissolved), hence, its mobility and
bioavailability. For example, radionuclides that are easily dissolved in
water are more likely to migrate and disperse throughout the environment.
These properties are also important because they determine whether a
material bioaccumulates and the degree to which bioaccumulation occurs.
Nature of the • The sources of contamination may exist in place (e.g., in soil or sediment)
Sources of with or without further inputs of released radionuclides. These sources
Contamination may be on the surface, buried, or moving through the medium by one or
more processes. Alternatively, the sources of contamination may be point
or non-point discharges of radioactive materials into the air, water, or soil.
Section 94
• Where the sources of contamination are located in the environment, if and
how they are discharged into the environment and their subsequent
mobility through environmental media are important determinants of their
distribution throughout the environment in space and time.
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Table 2.1 (Continued) General Considerations for Defining Sources, Receptors, and Routes
of Exposure
Environmental
Media
• The environmental media in which the released radionuclides are found
(i.e., water, soil, or sediment) set the boundaries for the mobility of the
released radionuclides through and among media. For example, released
radionuclides in water may be dissolved or suspended as particulates, and
their concentrations may be diluted through natural processes (e.g.,
currents, waves).
• Suspended particulates may be deposited in the sediments, re-suspended,
or even eroded by the wind if the water evaporates.
• Materials in the air may be dispersed over large distances, subsequently
deposited in the water or on the soil.
• Released radionuclides in the soil may exist as immobile particulates or
mobile dissolved forms, and may move from one form to another in space
and through time, depending on the pH and redox potential of the soil.
Other factors such as carbonates, organic matter, and clay content and
type can also be important.
Ecology of the
Receptors
• The interactions of each receptor within its environment define the routes
of its exposure. A species that burrows in the soil and preys on soil
organisms will have a different exposure profile than herbivores that live on
the surface.
• The ecology determines how the receptor is exposed in time and space.
Rates of exposure and total doses will vary among similar types of
organisms, based on whether an organism is immobile, mobile and local,
or mobile and migratory.
• Depending upon the phase of the graded approach you are working in
(e.g., if you are moving from general screening to a site-specific analysis) it
may be useful to develop a site conceptual model of the type used in
ecological risk assessments. Helpful references include ASTM (1995),
EPA (1998), and Suter (1996). An ecological scoping checklist for
assembling a conceptual model is provided in Ryti et al. (1999). An
automated conceptual model builder is also available (DOE 1997).
2.1.1 Sources
Ionizing radiation should be present in the environment at concentrations that are measurable
using routine survey methods. Nuclide-specific information is preferred. Measurements of
gross alpha radiation and/or gross beta radiation may be useful in defining the areas of
contamination and the identification of localized areas of high concentration.
The sources of ionizing radiation should also be persistent. If long-lived radionuclides are
present in measurable concentrations and receptors are exposed to them, an evaluation will be
needed. Short-lived radionuclides (e.g., with a half-life less than 3 months), if continuously or
regularly released into the environment, could be present on a regular basis. As a guide,
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radionuclides with half-lives less than 6 months that are discharged into the environment in
measurable quantities at least twice in a given 12-month period may warrant an evaluation.
2.1.2 Receptors and Routes of Exposure Considered in the Graded Approach
Section 95
Four organism types and their corresponding dose limits were used in deriving the screening
and analysis methods contained in this technical standard. The principal exposure pathways
considered for aquatic animal (1 rad/d), riparian animal (0.1 rad/d), terrestrial plant (1 rad/d),
and terrestrial animal (0.1 rad/d) organism types are shown in Figures 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and 2.4,
respectively. Dose evaluations for site-specific receptors (as defined by the user in the analysis
phase of the graded approach) should reflect consideration of all relevant exposure pathways
depicted in these figures, and as described in Module 3.
2.1.3 Examples of Receptors That Could Serve as Good Indicators of Radiological
Impact
Selected examples of organisms that could be used in the analysis phase of the graded
approach as indicators of radiological impact are provided in Table 2.2. Examples were
provided by BDAC members from several DOE sites. The examples are based on the BDAC
members’ expertise in radioecology and experience in conducting radiological ERAs at their
sites. The rationale used by BDAC members in identifying example representative organisms
includes, but is not limited to, the following:
• The home range of the organism should be considered, with preference given to
organisms with small home ranges.
• The organism should be susceptible (i.e., exposed and sensitive) to ionizing radiation.
Organisms that are good accumulators of radionucides but are not very radiosensitive
are generally not the most appropriate organisms. For example, mammals and other
vertebrates are generally more radiosensitive then are invertebrates. Higher plants are
more radiosensitive than mosses and lichens.
• The organism should represent the major exposure pathways for aquatic and terrestrial
biota.
• The organism should be indigenous to the evaluation area and utilize the principal
habitat present in the evaluation area.
• The organism is one that the general public is familiar with and can relate to.
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• The organism has a reasonable amount of data available about it in the published
literature or from site-specific studies (e.g., in terms of characterizing its radiosensitivity;
environmental transfer factor parameters needed for application in the biota dose
evaluation).
• The organism should be appropriate to the ecosystem type being evaluated (e.g.,
regional differences in ecosystems).
• The organism is one of the keystone or focal species for the ecosystem type being
evaluated. It should be important to the function and structure of the ecosystem.
These examples are provided for illustrative purposes and are not all-inclusive. It is the user’s
responsibility to select site-specific organisms appropriate for the area being evaluated and to
document the rationale for their selection. See also Section 6.2.2 through 6.2.4 for guidance on
selection and sampling of receptors.
Table 2.2 Examples of Representative Organisms That Could Serve as Indicators of
Radiological Impact
AQUATIC
ANIMALS
AQUATIC
PLANTS
RIPARIAN
ANIMALS
TERRESTRIAL
ANIMALS
TERRESTRIAL
PLANTS
Savannah River Site and the Southeast
largemouth
bass
pondweed beaver hipsid cotton rat loblolly pine
channel catfish cat-tail raccoon cotton mouse longleaf pine
redbreast
sunfish
alligator fox bald cypress
(also a riparian
plant)
swamp tupelo
(also a riparian
plant)
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Table 2.2 (Continued) Examples of Representative Organisms That Could Serve as
Indicators of Radiological Impact
Section 96
AQUATIC
ANIMALS
AQUATIC
PLANTS
RIPARIAN
ANIMALS
TERRESTRIAL
ANIMALS
TERRESTRIAL
PLANTS
Oak Ridge Site
catfish mink whitefooted
mouse
small vascular
plants such as
grasses and
shrubs
carp muskrat deer mouse pine trees
suckers raccoon cottontail rabbit
red and gray
foxes
Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory
sage grouse sage brush
great basin
spadefoot toad
coyote
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
bass raccoon deer mouse gray rabbit
brush
carp beaver great basin
pocket mouse
reed canary
grass
sculpin mule deer mulberry tree
salmonids coyote
great blue heron
bat
king bird
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Figure 2.1 Exposure Pathways for Aquatic Animals
Figure 2.2 Exposure Pathways for Riparian Animals
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Figure 2.3 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Plants
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Figure 2.4 Exposure Pathways for Terrestrial Animals
2.2 Rationale for the Active Air Pathway as a Minor Source of Exposure
The active air (i.e., continuous air emission) release pathway was not included in the derivation
of the BCGs because biota inhalation and immersion in air were estimated to be relatively
insignificant contributors to biota dose. In response to comments received on the interim
version of this technical standard regarding the statement that airborne emissions of
radionuclides represent a minor source of exposure for animals and plants, the active air
release pathway was further evaluated by the BDAC.
2.2.1 Behavior of Radionuclides Discharged to the Atmosphere
Unlike releases of radionuclides to water or soil, atmospheric discharges almost always rapidly
disperse. For example, along the centerline of a Gaussian plume resulting from a ground-level
point source, and assuming neutral stability (Pasquill-Gifford Stability Category D) to represent
an average plume, the concentration at a distance of 100 m is reduced by a factor of about 500
compared with the concentration close to the source (DOE 1984). Reductions in
concentrations are much greater at locations away from the plume centerline or at greater
distances from a source. The rapid dispersal of airborne radionuclides is an important
consideration in evaluating doses to biota.
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2.2.2 Exposure Pathways Resulting from Atmospheric Releases
Within the context of the graded approach methodology, in considering radiation doses to biota
resulting from atmospheric releases, there are three exposure pathways of concern. These
are: (1) external exposure of terrestrial plants and animals to airborne radionuclides
(cloudshine); (2) inhalation of airborne radionuclides by terrestrial animals; and (3) absorption of
airborne radionuclides by terrestrial plants. All other potential exposure pathways are a
consequence of deposition of airborne radionuclides onto the land surface or surface waters
(including, for example, inhalation of resuspended radionuclides by terrestrial animals). It is
important to note that these other pathways are already taken into account in the graded
approach methodology.
2.2.3 Compliance with Human Radiation Dose Limits at DOE Sites Relative to Biota
Dose Limits: A Perspective
Section 97
First, airborne emissions of radionuclides at DOE sites are limited to very small quantities to
protect human health. Current DOE (and EPA and NRC) policies restrict radioactive air
emissions so that radiation exposures of the general public will be less than 10 mrem/y (0.1
mSv/y). Non-radiation workers at a DOE site are protected to 100 mrem/y (1mSv/y) from all
sources (DOE 1984). These policies are significant in the original decision to not include the
active air pathway in the graded approach methodology. Second, unlike exposures to
radionuclides in soil, water, and sediment, the exposure pathways from active air releases are
the same for biota as for humans. Terrestrial biota are exposed to approximately the same
airborne concentrations and for approximately the same lengths of time. Several points are
highlighted below which support these exposure-dose relationships:
• Terrestrial animals. Terrestrial animals typically receive external and internal (i.e.,
inhaled) doses of ionizing radiation from air at rates similar to those experienced by
humans. No major differences have been documented either in external doses due to
submersion in air, or in internal doses due to intake and biological retention rates as a
result of inhalation. Thus, if a DOE facility or site is in compliance with the dose limits for
humans given above, total doses to terrestrial animals should be far below the much
higher recommended limit of 0.1 rad/d.
• Inhalation doses were calculated for terrestrial animals over a range of body mass and
metabolic rates (e.g., a marsh wren; a heron; a large elk) at allowable air concentrations
at DOE sites. It was found that the air concentrations to which populations of these
terrestrial animals would need to be exposed in order to reach the dose limit for terrestrial
animals at DOE sites would need to be two to three orders of magnitude greater than the
allowable air concentrations for humans.
• In general, internal dose to terrestrial animals is largely a function of ingestion rather than
inhalation. Doses due to inhalation of airborne activity were taken into account in the
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graded approach. The BCGs derived in the graded approach use appropriately
measured lumped parameters (e.g., animal:food or animal:soil values) which implicitly
include both ingestion and inhalation pathways to an organism. In cases where lumped
parameter values were limited or unavailable, allometric relationships, to include those
for inhalation, were used to derive the BCGs for riparian and terrestrial organism types.
In cases where a user believes that inhalation could be a relatively important contributor
to internal dose, the inhalation parameter can be appropriately modified in the analysis
phase (i.e., site-specific analysis component) of the graded approach.
• Terrestrial plants. Terrestrial plants also typically receive external doses of ionizing
radiation from air at rates similar to those experienced by humans. Hence, the above
rationale for external exposure of terrestrial animals applies equally to external exposure
of terrestrial plants, especially given the higher recommended limit of 1.0 rad/d for plants.
Section 98
• In regard to absorption of airborne radionuclides by plants, there is no known mechanism
for significant absorption of radionuclides in particulate form. Some radionuclides in
gaseous form are absorbed, especially 3H as tritiated water and 14C as carbon dioxide.
In both cases, however, the specific activity in the water and carbon of plants would
approach those in the atmosphere, so there would be no magnification of the dose
compared with that in humans. Moreover, for terrestrial plants, soils serve as the ultimate
integrator of radionuclides originating and transported via the air pathway. Therefore, it is
highly unlikely that populations of terrestrial plants could receive a significant dose due to
absorption of airborne radionuclides. The much lower maximum doses from airborne
emissions that are specified for humans would provide an adequate level of protection for
terrestrial plants.
2.2.4 Derivation of Biota Concentration Guides For Active Air Releases
Although active air releases are unlikely to result in significant doses to terrestrial biota, the
BDAC derived BCGs for air to further evaluate the potential contribution of the active air
pathway to biota dose. Active air BCGs were derived using ecologically-based modeling
approaches consistent with those used for the other media types in this technical standard.
Inhalation and external exposure pathways were included. Allometric equations were used to
assess exposure via inhalation, and do not consider other pathways of exposure (e.g.,
consumption of foodstuffs contaminated by deposition of radionuclides) – as these pathways
are addressed and accounted for in the derivation of the water and soil BCGs. The magnitude
of the active air BCGs were then compared relative to other media BCGs, and with derived
concentration guides (DCG(air)) given in DOE 5400.5 for members of the general public. The
human DCG values were decreased by a factor of 10 to represent the 10 mrem/y dose limit to
the public required under NESHAPS for air emissions from DOE facilities. This comparison
indicated that - for exposure to radionuclides from the active air pathway - the dose limits and
derived concentration guides for radiation protection of humans are more restrictive than the
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BCGs derived for radiation protection of biota. This analysis is consistent with and supports the
assumptions and findings presented above in section 2.2.3.
2.2.5 Summary and Conclusions
Based on the foregoing discussions: (1) it is difficult to conceive of any credible circumstances
under which populations of terrestrial animals and plants could receive a dose from exposure to
radionuclides released through the active air pathway at DOE sites that would be more than a
small fraction of applicable biota dose limits referenced in this technical standard; and (2)
compliance with the biota dose limits for populations of terrestrial plants and animals can be
evaluated without the explicit need to consider external and internal exposures from the active
air pathway.
2.3 Aquatic Plants
There are no DOE or internationally-recommended dose limits established for aquatic plants,
primarily due to lack of data on radiation effects to these organisms. Indirect means can be
used to provide a general indication of the effects on aquatic plants relative to effects on other
organisms. Consider the following:
Section 99
• Few investigations have been conducted on the impact of ionizing radiation on aquatic
plants (Woodhead 1998). There is a paucity of data in the literature regarding the
radiosensitivity of aquatic plants, even though site-specific lumped parameter values (i.e.,
bioaccumulation factors) for accumulation of several radionuclides are available (Whicker
et al. 1990, Cummins 1994, and Whicker et al. 1999).
• In general, one would expect substantially lower radiosensitivity in higher plants in
comparison to the most sensitive birds, fishes and mammals (Whicker and Schultz 1982,
and Whicker 1997). For these reasons, an evaluation that demonstrates protection of
aquatic and riparian animals would provide an indication that aquatic plants are also likely
protected.
• Alternatively, the aquatic animal spreadsheet can be used to calculate BCGs for aquatic
plants. This is done by replacing the default Biv values in the aquatic animal spreadsheet
within the RAD-BCG Calculator with appropriate bioaccumulation factors (Bivs) for
aquatic plant species. The remaining default parameters and assumptions are
unchanged. Calculating BCGs for aquatic plants in this manner, if needed, should be
done in consultation with EH-412 and the BDAC Core Team.
2.4 Direct Measurement of Radiation Fields
It is first important to distinguish between ionizing radiation and radioactive isotopes
(radionuclides). Ionizing radiation is defined as radiated energy that is energetic enough to
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eject one or more orbital electrons from the target atom or molecule (i.e., the radiation ionizes
the target). Ionization can produce free radicals, which are chemically unstable atoms or
molecules that have an odd number of electrons. These highly reactive products scavenge
electrons by breaking chemical bonds, including those in cell membranes and DNA molecules.
Thus, ionizing radiation can cause cell death (e.g., oocyte death) and mutations (e.g., cancer).
However, ionizing radiation generally does not cause ambient media or biological tissues to
become radioactive, which only occurs via the transfer and accumulation of radionuclides. That
is, exposing an organism to a radiation field does not result in the transfer of radionuclides and
does not make the organism radioactive. It follows that an organism that simply passes
through a radiation field does not then become a source of radionuclides or radiation to other
organisms.
2.4.1 Considerations for Evaluating Doses to Biota around Accelerators or other
Sources of Direct Radiation
Accelerator facilities pose little risk regarding environmental contamination. Emissions are
mainly short-lived gases which do not accumulate in the environment. Therefore, compliance
with the dose rate limits referenced in this technical standard is most efficiently accomplished
by direct measurement and mapping of the radiation dose rate field outside the facility. This
can be accomplished during routine radiation monitoring using the techniques normally
employed by the facility. If the greatest dose rate in the field does not exceed 0.1 rad/d (1
mGy/d), the facility has demonstrated protection and no further action is required.
Section 100
If the greatest dose rate in the field does exceed 0.1 rad/d (1 mGy/d), it does not immediately
imply non-compliance. The dose limit is based on continuous exposure and radiation from
accelerators is rarely continuous. The primary radiation field exists only when the accelerator is
operating. In this case, dose assessors may wish to employ dose reduction factors accounting
for the fraction of the day during which the dose rate field exists. If this technique is employed,
it may also be important to ensure that maximum dose rates do not exceed 10 rad/d (100
mGy/d). According to the IAEA (1992), acute dose rates below this limit are very unlikely to
produce persistent and measurable deleterious changes in populations or communities of
terrestrial plants or animals.
Other considerations for direct measurement of radiation fields include:
• Measurement technique. The technique employed to measure the dose rate field
should be appropriate for the type of radiation and sufficiently sensitive to demonstrate
compliance with the limits.
• Dimensions of the field. For most accelerators, the greatest dose rate may be
observed in line with the beam. However, if the beam is potentially scattered, it may be
important to obtain a 3-dimensional map of the dose rate field.
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• Activation products. If there is a potential for the creation of activation products in soil
or water outside the accelerator building, assessors should consider applying the graded
approach (i.e., using the BCGs) for contaminated media.
• Biota intrusion. Biota intrusion may be a problem in high-dose areas such as earthen
beam stops, and this possibility should be investigated.
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3 Guidance on Spatial and Temporal Averaging Regarding
Application of Biota Dose Limits and Mean Radionuclide
Concentrations
Spatial and temporal variability relative to the distribution of contamination in the environment
can be taken into account when evaluating doses to biota. This section provides guidance on
spatial and temporal averaging regarding application of biota dose limits and mean radionuclide
concentrations. The rationale used to define an evaluation area is an important aspect of any
spatial averaging of radionuclide concentrations that may be applied in the graded approach.
Guidance on defining areas over which radionuclide concentrations can be averaged to define
an evaluation area is discussed in Module 2, Section 4.
3.1 Use of Time Averaging in Applying Dose Limits for Aquatic and Terrestrial
Biota
The daily dose limits for aquatic and terrestrial biota are based on recommendations of the
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP 1991), the International
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA 1992), and a DOE workshop (Barnthouse 1995). The guidance
presented in this section on the use of time averaging in applying the daily dose limits is based
on the data on radiation effects in biota found in these reports and on the intended applicability
of the recommended daily dose limits. The guidance is supported by radioecological studies at
highly contaminated sites in the former Soviet Union (Polikarpov 1994).
The dose limits for radiation protection of biota at
Daily Dose Limits DOE sites are expressed in terms of daily limits on
absorbed dose. Expressing the standards in this The daily dose limits for biota are not
way suggests that the dose limits apply to each intended to be applied to each day of
day of exposure and, therefore, that compliance exposure. Rather, the daily dose limits
Section 101
should be applied as averages over
substantially longer time periods.
with the dose limits must be demonstrated on a
daily basis. However, the information in the reports
identified above clearly indicates that the daily dose
limits for biota are not intended to be applied to
each day of exposure. Rather, the daily dose limits should be applied as averages over
substantially longer time periods.
3.1.1 Guidance on Time Averaging in Applying Daily Dose Limits
The guidance on the use of time averaging in applying the daily dose limits for biota assumes
that compliance with the standards will be based in part on measurements of the concentrations
of radionuclides in surface water, sediments, and surface soil. The following guidelines are
offered:
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• The estimated daily dose rates from exposure to contaminated surface water may be
averaged over a period of approximately 1 month (30 days), and up to but not to exceed 1
year (365 days).
• The estimated daily dose rates from exposure to contaminated sediments or soil may be
averaged over a period substantially longer than 1 month, but not to exceed 1 year (365
days).
The above guidelines are generally consistent with the frequency of sampling of surface water,
sediments, and surface soil at DOE sites.
The different time periods for averaging daily doses from exposure to surface water and
exposure to sediments or soil are based on considerations of the times over which radionuclide
concentrations in these environmental compartments are likely to change significantly in
response to short-term fluctuations in radionuclide concentrations in effluents. Retention times
of radionuclides in the water column often are relatively short, due to such processes as
deposition on sediments and flushing by natural flow. Therefore, radionuclide concentrations in
surface water can change relatively rapidly (e.g., with more rapid change in lotic systems, and
generally less rapid change in lentic systems). However, radionuclide concentrations in
sediments or surface soil usually change more slowly because of sorption of radionuclides onto
these media and the immobility of sediments or soils in most environments. Site-specific
conditions (e.g., intermittent storm water flows; scour and transport of contaminated sediments
resulting from seasonal occurrences such as high flow conditions) that may produce wide
variations of exposure to receptors should also be considered in conjunction with the guidelines
provided above when determining appropriate averaging periods.
3.1.2 Rationale for Guidance on Time Averaging
The guidance on the use of time averaging in applying the daily dose limits for biota is based on
reviews and evaluations of existing data and discussions of daily dose limits in NCRP (1991),
IAEA (1992), and Barnthouse (1995). The rationale for the guidance is summarized as follows:
• The daily dose limits for biota are intended to provide protection of whole populations of
individual species, rather than individual members of the population. Furthermore, the
primary health effect of concern in protecting whole populations of individual species is
impairment of reproductive capability over the normal reproductive lifetime.
• The data on radiation effects in biota that provided the basis for the daily dose limits were
obtained primarily from studies involving chronic exposure, in which the average dose rate
in the population varied substantially, often by an order of magnitude or more, over
exposure times ranging from several months to several years. In the studies involving
chronic exposure, the dose rate in individual organisms also varied substantially due to
Section 102
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spatial inhomogeneities in the dose rate and/or the movement and burrowing habits of
organisms.
• Based on studies involving short-term exposures, dose rates about 2-5 times higher than
the daily limits for biota appear to be tolerable for short periods of time (e.g., 30 days) if the
daily dose rate averaged over the lifetime of the exposed population is limited in accordance
with the standards. Single acute doses about 10-30 times higher than the daily dose limit
appear to be tolerable (a) if the recovery time between such doses is sufficiently long (e.g.,
30-60 days) and (b) if the daily dose rate averaged over the lifetime of the exposed
population is limited in accordance with the standards.
• The average doses in populations of study organisms was the primary basis for reporting
dose-response relationships for deterministic effects, including early mortality and
impairment of reproductive capability, and for developing standards for radiation exposure
of biota. Thus, time averaging, as well as spatial averaging, of dose rates was inherent in
the development of daily dose limits. The dose limits were not intended as limits for
each day of exposure but, rather, as limits on the average daily dose rates encountered
from conception through reproductive age. Therefore, averaging times as long as 1 year
may be appropriate for reproducing members of populations of the most radiosensitive
organisms (vertebrate animals and some higher plants).
• Radioecological studies at highly contaminated sites in the former Soviet Union (Polikarpov
1994) suggest that radiation effects are observed at the population and community level
only for annual doses greater than about 400 rad (4 Gy) or an average daily dose of about
1 rad (0.01 Gy). Thus, effects attributable to radiation exposure were observed only for
average daily doses over 1 year equal to the dose limit for aquatic animals and terrestrial
plants and 10 times the dose limit for terrestrial animals.
All of these factors taken together suggest that applying the daily dose limits for biota as
averages over a time period between 30 days and 1 year would provide adequate protection,
especially when the time-dependence of most routine releases at DOE sites is taken into
account.
3.2 Guidance on Spatial Variability in Applying Dose Limits
This section discusses how spatial variability in doses could be taken into account when
applying daily dose limits for biota. General considerations and rationale regarding suitable
approaches to selecting measured concentrations of radionuclides in environmental media
(water, sediments, and soil) to be used when demonstrating compliance with the daily dose
limits based on the screening models is presented here. Guidance on selecting measured
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concentrations other than maximum values is
also presented. The daily dose limits for biota
are intended to provide protection of whole
populations of individual species rather than
individual members of a population that
might experience a greater dose. Thus,
given that exposures of a population normally
would occur over a considerable area, some
type of an average value of the
concentrations of radionuclides in
environmental media over the area occupied
by the population would be suitable for
purposes of demonstrating compliance with
the daily dose limits. Also, because most of
the scientific data underlying the evolution of
Section 103
Significant spatial variability in the doses to
aquatic and terrestrial organisms may
occur in environmental systems, due to two
factors:
C The spatial variability in the concentrations
of radionuclides in different environmental
media, due to dispersion and dilution
during transport from localized sources
and the spatial variability of processes that
concentrate or immobilize radionuclides.
C Migration of organisms from or to areas of
greater or lesser contamination.
the dose limits involved averaged responses
to averaged dose rates, applying rational spatial averaging schemes for environmental media
concentrations used in a biota dose evaluation would be appropriate.
The screening methods developed in this technical standard are intended to be conservative in
their approach to estimating dose rates per unit concentration of radionuclides in water,
sediments, or soil. Similarly, for judging compliance with the daily dose limits for biota, some
degree of conservatism also is warranted when initially selecting the values of measured
concentrations of radionuclides in the environment to be used as input to the screening
methods. For example, when protecting whole populations of individual species, it would be
appropriately conservative to select initial radionuclide concentrations toward the upper end of
the range of measured values at a variety of locations close to any sources. Indeed, this is the
rationale for first using maximum radionuclide concentrations in environmental media in the
general screening phase of the graded approach. In addition, because the area of habitation
for many species will be considerably greater than the area of contamination, average values of
radionuclide concentrations over the contaminated area should be conservative for purposes of
complying with the dose limits, albeit to a lesser extent.
It is typically labor-intensive and potentially difficult to completely characterize the distribution of
radionuclide concentrations in the environment, particularly in sediments and soil. This is
particularly true if such characterizations have not already been conducted. It may be resource-
intensive and/or difficult to determine the ranges of concentrations of radionuclides in the
exposure environment, and to provide reliable estimates of statistical measures of the
distribution of concentrations with location, including, for example, the mean (average value).
Also, as noted previously, many species are highly mobile. Therefore, when limited
environmental data are available, an approach to applying the daily dose limits for biota that
relies on some form of statistical analysis may be unlikely to be more rigorous than a more
qualitative and judgment-based approach to evaluating the data.
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3.3 Guidance on Estimating Mean Values
For aquatic or terrestrial biota, compliance
with applicable dose limits shall always be
demonstrated by first comparing the
maximum measured values of radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media
(water, sediments, and soil), as obtained
from existing networks for environmental
monitoring, with the default BCGs in the
general screening phase. However, if
maximum measured concentrations do not
comply with the biota dose limits, then
estimates of average concentrations over
the evaluation area, determined as
Estimating mean values
Section 104
To estimate mean values, it will be necessary to
know the approximate boundaries of the site, and
the approximate spatial and temporal distributions
of the contaminant(s) at that site. As appropriate
to the characteristics of the site and the
contaminants present at the site, random, stratified
random, or systematic sampling may be used to
collect data for estimating mean values. A more
qualitative and judgement-based approach to
evaluating the data may also be used. See
Module 2, Section 6, for related information.
described in Module 2, Section 4, can be
compared with the default BCGs as the first step in the site-specific screening phase.
Depending on the spatial coverage, quantity, or quality of the existing data, either judgement or
statistical methods could be used to select average concentrations for comparison with the
BCGs. In all cases, the approach to selecting the average values shall be documented. If
average concentrations of radionuclides over the contaminated area exceed the default BCGs
in the site-specific screening phase, then efforts to demonstrate compliance probably should
focus on other aspects of the graded approach, such as reducing the degree of conservatism in
the BCGs (e.g., generating more accurate, realistic site-specific BCGs using site-representative
parameters as described in site-specific screening and site-specific analysis elements of the
graded approach).
3.3.1 Adjustments to Account for Spatial and Temporal Distributions of Radionuclides in
the Environment When Estimating Mean Concentrations
Location-specific data for individual radionuclides in specific environmental media are used in
the screening process. When conducting a screening evaluation, it is important to use
radionuclide concentrations that are estimated to be mean values or greater than mean
values for the contaminated area. Only data at or above the mean are adequate for screening
purposes because mean concentrations are assumed in this technical standard to approximate
those concentrations to which a representative individual within a population would be exposed.
Available data may not be adequate to ascertain that radionuclide concentrations are likely at or
above mean values for the contaminated area. Non-representative measurements may occur
and result in values that are considerably higher (or lower) than the actual mean concentration.
That is, concentrations are so far above the mean value that they falsely indicate that biota are
receiving doses above the recommended limits, or so far below the mean value that they falsely
indicate that biota are receiving doses below the recommended limits. In these cases, it is
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acceptable to account for both spatial and temporal distributions of radionuclides in the
environment when estimating mean values of radionuclides for use in site-specific screening.
Radionuclide concentrations can be adjusted to account for site-specific spatial and temporal
factors that will bring them closer to mean values. Consider the following examples:
• If the source of radionuclides is an intermittent discharge to the environment, concentrations
of radionuclides discharged to the receiving environment may be adjusted over time based
on discharge records.
• A correction factor for exposure area or organism residence time may be applied in the site-
specific analysis component to account for intermittent sources of exposure that would
affect all receptors in the evaluation area, or to account for the movements of organisms in
and out of the contaminated area over time, for example, because of seasonal migration or
diurnal migration in and out of the contaminated area.
Section 105
• If the contamination exhibits a decreasing gradient of concentration away from the source,
then mean concentrations of contaminants within the contaminated area may be used,
taking into account the intersections with distinct habitats as described in Module 2, Section
4. Where available contaminant data are comprehensive, it would be possible to accurately
estimate the size of the contaminated area and the distribution of contamination within that
area. Statistical methods given and/or referenced in Module 2, Section 6, may be used to
calculate mean values. The statistical methods selected should be widely-used methods
referenced in standard statistical texts and/or recommended by a qualified statistician.
However, where contaminant data are not sufficiently comprehensive to conduct rigorous
statistical analyses but provide a semi-quantitative basis for estimating mean values,
subjective judgement may be used with justification.
• If the area being considered has been documented to have high background levels of
naturally occurring radionuclides, these background levels may be taken into account when
determining compliance of DOE activities with the recommended biota dose limits. For
example, this may be an important consideration for the two isotopes of radium (see BCGs
for Ra-226 and Ra-228, Tables 6.1 - 6.4 of Module 1). Background levels for water, soil
and sediment media should be estimated based on data for the same or similar water, soil
or sediment types in areas unaffected by facility effluents.
• If available data cannot be justified to be at or above mean values, or if the initial screening
analysis suggests a false positive result, additional data on contaminants may need to be
collected to obtain more realistic estimates of mean values. Either or both of the following
types of data may be needed: (a) data on the spatial distribution of concentrations of
radionuclides within the contaminated area; and (b) data on the size of the contaminated
area.
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Both of these types of data are needed for estimating the mean concentrations of contaminants
that are assumed to approximate the concentrations that a representative individual would
encounter. Although Module 2, Section 6, discusses methods for sampling biota, much of the
general information on sampling design is relevant to collecting data on the concentrations of
radionuclides in the environment and should be consulted. Additional information is found in
the “Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological Effluent Monitoring and Environmental
Surveillance" (DOE 1991) and the “Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation
Manual (MARSSIM)" (DOD-DOE-EPA-NRC 2000). In cases where very little data are available
on the distributions of radionuclide concentrations, a preliminary survey may be needed.
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4 Guidance for Defining the Evaluation Area
As stated in Module 1, Section 5.3, the approach in the general screening phase shall be to use
maximum radionuclide concentration data applicable to the largest area of interest (e.g., the
entire site). If the default BCGs in the general screening phase are exceeded, then mean
radionuclide concentrations may be applied in the site-specific screening phase of the graded
approach. The definition of the evaluation area is an important aspect of any spatial averaging
of radionuclide concentrations that may be applied in the graded approach. This section
provides an approach for defining the evaluation area which uses the intersections of
contaminated areas and habitats to define the areas over which concentrations can be
averaged. Refer to Module 2, Section 3 for guidance on spatial and temporal averaging of
radionuclide concentrations.
Section 106
4.1 General Considerations
The selection of an appropriate spatial area is governed by the principles of susceptibility and
ecological relevance (EPA 1999). For large DOE sites, the entire site would, in most cases, be
too large an evaluation area, because most of the biota on the reservation would not be
exposed to the contamination. Biota which do not come into contact with contaminants, do not
receive dose, and the inclusion of non-contaminated areas in the calculation of mean
concentrations would result in low doses not representative of the actual impacts to the affected
biota. On the other hand, the individual operable unit, waste trench, or contamination source
would, in most cases, be too small to be ecologically meaningful. Although biota living in a 100
m2 waste trench may be greatly affected by trench contaminants, their loss will likely have little
impact on the population of small mammals in the region or on a broader scale ecosystem
function. Beyond these limits, the scale of application depends greatly on site-specific
conditions.
4.2 Step-by-Step Guidance
It is possible, however, to provide general guidance for selecting an appropriately scaled
application area. This guidance is not meant to be prescriptive. Each step of the process
involves a significant element of professional judgement and requires appropriate justification
and documentation. In particular, the environmental monitoring organization at the site will be
required to determine, justify, and document appropriate boundaries for areas with similar
environmental concentrations of the same radionuclides (referred to hereafter as contaminated
areas). Similarly, the site ecologists will be required to determine, justify, and document
appropriate boundaries of similar habitat types.
The intersection of contaminated areas and habitats define the areas over which concentrations
can be averaged if use of the maximum concentrations at any locations does not show
compliance with the dose limits. This kind of analysis is most easily done using area maps, and
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) will prove an invaluable tool. The following steps can
be applied to determine this intersection.
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1. Determine whether this method is necessary. First, use the default BCGs in the general
screening phase with the input contaminant concentrations set at the highest concentrations
found in your area of interest (e.g., the entire site). If you pass the general screening
phase, no further consideration is necessary. If use of the maximum concentrations at any
locations does not pass the general screening phase, then proceed below.
The following steps of the process center around determining the boundaries of the
contaminated areas and their relationship to ecological habitat types. This will likely involve
consideration of: (a) boundaries presented by the quality, quantity, and distribution of
available environmental radionuclide data, and resulting from the design of the site
environmental monitoring and surveillance program; (b) boundaries presented by the
susceptibility, ecological relevance, and habitat of receptors relative to the radionuclide
contamination; and (c) boundaries resulting from the management and administration of
facilities and operations areas on the site (e.g., location and extent of waste management
facilities, production facilities, operable units, and operations areas).
Section 107
2. Determine and map the boundaries of the contaminated areas. One possible set of
boundaries might be the background isopleths of a contamination plume, but there are other
possibilities, particularly if the radionuclides present, their historical deposition, or their
present environmental concentrations differ from location to location. The site
environmental monitoring organization should determine the most meaningful and justifiable
boundaries for their site.
3. Determine and map the boundaries of discrete habitat types. Within a habitat type, one
assumes that ecological structure and function are sufficiently homogeneous to be
represented by a single parameter and that the species of concern are distributed
throughout the habitat type. Between habitat types one assumes that structure and function
are dissimilar. The site ecologists should use best professional judgement and all available
data to justify these habitat boundaries.
4. Overlay the maps and identify the intersections. Each area of discrete habitat that lies
within a discrete contaminated area can be appropriately defined as an assessment area.
This may occur in several ways:
• A single contaminated area may be completely covered by a single habitat patch (Figure 4.1
(a)). In this case, the contaminated area bounds the assessment area. An example of this
kind of intersection might be a small pond with uniformly contaminated sediment.
• A single contaminated area might also intersect multiple habitat patches (Figure 4.1 (b)).
This might be the case at any site which releases airborne contaminants from a stack. In
this case, there will be multiple assessment areas bounded by habitat type.
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• Multiple contaminated areas of the same type may intersect a single discrete habitat patch
(Figure 4.1 (c)), in which case it is acceptable to integrate or average over multiple
contaminated areas within a single habitat type.
• Finally, there may be multiple habitat patches of the same type which intersect one or more
areas with radionuclides in the same environmental concentrations (Figure 4.2). In this
case, arguing that patches of the same type have similar species assemblages and similar
structure and function, these intersections could be assumed to be one assessment area,
even though they are separated in space.
In all these examples, it is important that contamination levels or parameters only be averaged
over the intersection of the contaminated area and the habitat type of interest and not the areas
between the intersection. If the areas outside the intersection were included, the averages
would not likely be representative of the habitat type and/or contaminant levels of interest. The
contaminated areas outside this intersection will be included in a different intersection of habitat
type and contaminated area.
a
c
b
Figure 4.1 Hypothetical maps of contaminated areas and discrete habitat
used to determine appropriately scaled assessment areas. Shading indicates
contaminated areas. The cross-hatching indicates habitat types. Three cases
are considered: (a) a single contaminated area intersects a single habitat
patch; (b) a single contaminated area intersects multiple habitat patches; (c)
multiple small contaminated areas intersect a single large habitat patch.
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Figure 4.2 A hypothetical map of multiple areas with the same
contamination intersecting multiple patches of the same discrete
habitat type used to determine appropriately scaled assessment areas.
Section 108
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5 Guidance on Soil Sampling Relative to Plant Rooting Depths
In terrestrial environments, particular attention should be directed toward assessing whether
plant roots are penetrating through relatively clean surface soils into subsurface zones that are
contaminated with radionuclides. When this condition exists, plants will transport radionuclides
from the subsurface into the vegetation canopy (for example, see Rickard and Kirby 1987).
Potential for exposure via this route is considerable, as many plants have rooting depths in
excess of 10 m (see Foxx et al. 1984, Canadell et al. 1996, and Jackson et al. 1996). Data
from surface soil samples will not indicate that the plants and the biota dependent on those
plants are receiving significant doses of ionizing radiation. The condition will be detectable,
however, because the concentrations of radionuclides in plant tissues will exceed the
concentrations that are predicted by concentration ratios for surface soils to plants. Therefore,
it may be necessary to sample deep-rooted plant tissues directly in any areas where subsurface
contamination is known or suspected to exist, for example above waste sites and plumes of
contaminated ground water. Guidance on rooting depths and designing a survey to assess
potential vertical transport of radionuclides by plants is provided in this section.
5.1 Overview of the Problem
DOE sites typically have numerous areas of subsurface contamination, for example cribs,
trenches, solid waste sites, contaminated soil columns, and contaminated ground water plumes
(see DOE 1995; 1996). Most of these areas of subsurface contamination have been mapped,
although surprises do occur on occasion. In many cases, contaminants including radionuclides
are moving through the subsurface environment. With the exception of ground water, however,
the subsurface environment is generally not sampled. In particular, soil samples are typically
collected only at the surface in response to a need for information about atmospheric deposition
of radioactive fallout from operations and past nuclear tests. These samples do not necessarily
indicate types and levels of contamination below the surface.
Incomplete and imperfect data on contamination of the subsurface environment can be
problematic for assessing radiation doses to plants because plants extend their roots into the
subsurface environment and can transport radionuclides from the soil column and ground water
up into their canopies (see Rickard and Kirby 1987). This route of transport and exposure may
not be apparent from surface soil samples. However, it can be detected by comparing co-
located concentrations of radionuclides in surface soil with concentrations in plant tissues.
Concentrations in plant tissues that are higher than expected based on surface soil
concentrations and the application of the appropriate soil to plant concentration ratio strongly
suggest that vertical transport by plants is occurring. When vertical transport occurs, the plants
themselves are receiving an internal dose, as are organisms at higher trophic levels that are
dependent on those plants (e.g., herbivores and predators of those herbivores).
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Section 109
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Figure 5.1 Average Rooting Depth by Plant Type
(source data from Foxx et al. 1984)
Because of the potential for transport and exposure via this mechanism, if deep-rooted plant
receptors are present in areas of known or suspect sub-surface contamination, plant tissues
may need to be sampled even if surface soil samples do not indicate the presence of
radioactive materials. It is not necessary to collect additional subsurface soil or ground water
samples for analysis because the plants themselves are the best indicators of uptake and
transport from the subsurface to the surface. A statistically sound sampling and analysis plan
will yield good estimates of the area over which transport is occurring, and tissue burdens of
radioactive materials within the plants.
5.2 Plant Rooting Depths
Plant roots can extend considerable depths into the subsurface, as indicated in Figure 5.1 and
Table 5.1. Ranges of rooting depths vary considerably among plant types (Figure 5.1) and
individual species. For these reasons, the data in Figure 5.1 and Table 5.1 are only a general
representation of rooting depth. Regional or local data on rooting depths of individual plant
species should be consulted whenever available. Foxx et al. (1984) is presently the best review
and compilation of data on rooting depths for the contiguous 48 states. More recent references
that may be consulted include Klepper et al. (1985), Tierney and Foxx (1987), Gilman (1989),
Breda et al. (1995), Parker and Van Lear (1996), Jackson et al. (1996), Canadell et al. (1996),
and Gerzabek et al. (1998).
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Table 5.1 Average and Ranges of Rooting Depths by Plant Type (m)
Life Form
Range Average
Depth Sigma high low
All plants 60.96 0.02 1.9 3.3
Evergreen trees 60.96 0.1 3.36 9.54
Deciduous trees 30 0.73 3.32 4.51
Shrubs 17.37 0.15 3.50 3.5
Subshrubs 6.4 0.51 1.40 1
Perennial forbs 39.32 0.02 1.70 2.5
Perennial grasses 8.23 0.05 1.40 0.9
Annual grasses 1.10 0.05 0.52 0.41
Biennial forbs 1.52 0.53 1.07 0.38
Annual forbs 3 0.04 0.8 0.8
Vines 2.8 1.02 1.68 0.78
All trees 60.96 0.1 3.34 6.11
All perennials 39.32 0.02 1.6 2
5.3 Consider the Need for Site-Specific Plant Uptake Factors
In some cases, it may be desirable to calculate site-specific uptake factors. For example,
published uptake factors may be of questionable utility, resulting in a need to derive site-specific
uptake factors. Examples include uptake factors that were derived exclusively in dissimilar
climatic regions or soil types, factors for which reported values are highly variable, and factors
based on very different plant taxa. In other cases, it may be possible to derive site-specific
plant uptake factors easily because co-located plant and soil and/or groundwater samples have
been taken (e.g., from routine monitoring programs), and the data are readily available. It is
essential that soil and subsurface conditions including all major contaminant sources be
reasonably well understood and that data from relevant locations and media (i.e., soil and/or
groundwater) be available or be collected.
5.4 Survey Design Considerations
It is not the intent of this section to provide detailed guidance on sampling plant tissues for
radionuclide analysis. However, the following general considerations are offered as a starting
point for designing and conducting a plant tissue-sampling program that will generate data on
tissue burdens of radionuclides.
Section 110
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• Plant species. When sampling to determine whether a transport problem exists at a given
location, the sampling program should be designed to sample multiple species with rooting
depths that range from the near surface to the greatest depths possible. Multiple species
will minimize the possibility that the contaminated zone is above or below the root zone of
any single species. Plants in riparian areas should not be overlooked, as deep-rooted
riparian species will have the potential to intercept contamination at considerable depth,
while shallow-rooted riparian species will intercept contamination where ground water is
discharged into surface water.
• Target radionuclides. When selecting target radionuclides for analysis, information on the
history of the site will be important for determining a priori what radionuclides may be
present and should be considered in the survey design. For example, information on the
radionuclides in a subsurface ground water plume that is suspected to be under the
vegetated area will be important. Hence, all information on radionuclides known or
suspected to exist in a given area should be reviewed before the survey is designed.
• Data quality objectives. Sampling should be designed and samples collected to meet or
exceed specified data quality objectives for the survey. Specification of data quality
objectives will help ensure that plant tissue data are of sufficiently high quality to ensure that
reasonable accurate estimates of doses can be derived from them using the methods in this
handbook. Refer to Gilbert (1987), EPA (1994), and Bilyard et al. (1997) for information on
the data quality objectives process. In most cases where vertical transport is suspected,
data quality objectives will need to specify that mean concentrations of specific
radionuclides in plant tissues can be estimated with an acceptable, specified degree of
precision.
• What to sample. The physical and chemical properties of the target radionuclides will be
important to the survey design. For example, radionuclides in volatile (e.g., H-3 as gas or
tritiated water, C-14, I-129), semi-volatile (e.g., Cs-137, at higher temperatures), and solid
states (e.g., all U and Pu) may require different handling and/or analysis procedures. In
addition, they will differentially partition among the parts of the receptor plants. Solids and
semi-volatiles will concentrate in roots>stems>leaves>seeds. Volatile radionuclides will
partition differently. For example, H-3 as tritiated water will exhibit highest concentrations in
leaves, while C-14 will be highest in woody tissues such as stems and roots, and I-129 will
be higher in leaves than in stems.
Characteristics of the sampled vegetation are also important to survey design. For
example, more mature plants will have better developed root systems with greater surface
areas available for absorption of radioactive substances, and may exhibit higher
concentrations of radionuclides in their tissues. For radionuclides that exhibit highest
concentrations in the leaves, sampling will necessarily be restricted to the growing season.
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• Sample numbers and sizes. Plants exhibit considerable inter-individual variability. Hence,
several plants should be sampled at each location. Samples may be pooled within locations
to obtain the mass needed for analysis consistent with data quality objectives. Analytical
laboratories may need to be consulted prior to sampling to determine the minimum masses
needed for analyses to meet specified detection limits. Sample masses are generally on
the order of 10 – 50 g dry weight for analytes other than tritiated water. Samples for tritiated
water are generally on the order of 20 – 100 g dry weight.
Section 111
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INTENTIONALLY BLANK
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6 Guidance on Biota Sampling to Support Implementation of the
Graded Approach
This section provides guidance and summarizes important issues associated with collecting
biological samples for dosimetric assessments of biota. Guidance is provided on sampling
biota to estimate mean radionuclide body burdens in representative individuals of a population.
This section does not address sampling to estimate effects (e.g., reduced species richness or
abundance). The sampling methods discussed here are to estimate the body burdens of
radionuclides in biota. These data may be used to estimate the internal dose to the sampled
organisms and the ingestion dose to receptors that consume the sampled organisms.
This guidance is intended to supplement and complement the guidance presented in the
Environmental Regulatory Guide for Radiological Effluent Monitoring and Environmental
Surveillance (DOE 1991), hereafter referred to as the Environmental Surveillance guidance.
The biological samples collected in accordance with the Environmental Surveillance guidance
are intended for assessing the dose to humans from ingestion of contaminated foodstuffs.
These samples can also be used for preliminary dose assessments for biota. However, the
data collected for human dosimetric assessments may not be representative of the internal or
ingestion doses to ecological receptors. The types of organisms collected and the potential
exposure pathways for the collected organisms should be evaluated to determine the
appropriateness of these data for use in assessments for ecological receptors.
The recommended approach to biota sampling consists of six major steps, which are shown in
Figure 6.1 and described in this section. The process begins with a clear definition of the scope
and objectives of the sampling effort. This includes selecting appropriate receptors, defining
the spatial and temporal context of the project, and identifying the data required for the
dosimetric assessment for the non-human receptors. Based on these decisions, sampling
methods and a sampling design are selected. The biota samples are collected and analyzed,
possibly in a multi-phased effort to allow for optimization of the sampling plan. The resulting
data are statistically summarized and the site data are compared to the background data, as
appropriate. Ultimately, the biota concentration data are incorporated into the dosimetric
assessments performed in accordance with the recommendations presented elsewhere in this
technical standard.
6.1 An Important Note about Biota Sampling and Temporal Variation
Biota are considered a valuable sampling tool because they integrate exposures over time and,
for mobile organisms, space. This is particularly helpful when the distribution of abiotic media
samples may be inadequate to characterize the variation in exposure. For example, high
concentrations of soil contamination (hot spots) may be missed by a soil sampling program but
included in exposures contributing to the measured body burden of a terrestrial organism. In
this way, measured body burdens help account for spatial variations in contaminant
concentrations.
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Section 112
However, biota sampling is not a cure-all for contaminant monitoring. In particular, the kinetics
of accumulation and depuration must be considered when evaluating the usefulness of body
burden data for situations in which temporal variations in contaminant concentrations occur.
For example, concentrations in flowing water may be highly variable through time, making it
difficult to estimate exposures for aquatic biota. Fish samples will typically provide a good
estimate of the actual exposures. The time over which this exposure is integrated depends on
the clearance rate of the elements measured. Therefore, if fish samples are collected once
annually but the element is rapidly eliminated from the fish, then the measured concentration is
highly dependent on when the exposures occurred. For the aqueous exposure example,
summer low flow conditions may result in elevated exposure concentrations with concomitant
increases in tissue concentrations. But if tissue samples are only collected in the spring, these
elevated body burdens will be missed if the biological half-life is on the order of days or weeks.
Therefore, the assessor should take into account the expected variation in exposure through
time and the accumulation and depuration rates for the radionuclides of concern.
The first issue to be evaluated is the temporal variation in exposure concentrations. Are the
concentrations cyclical or relatively stable? If they are relatively stable, as for existing surface
soil contamination, then the kinetics of accumulation are unlikely to influence the measured
body burdens and can, therefore, be disregarded for purposes of screening. If the
concentrations of contaminants are periodic, as for streams receiving contaminated discharges,
then the frequency and duration of elevated exposure concentrations must be considered. At
this point, the assessor should acquire relevant estimates of the accumulation and depuration
rates of the radionuclides of concern from the literature. To the extent practicable, biological
samples should be collected after the organism has reached equilibrium with the elevated
exposure concentrations and before significant depuration has occurred. If equilibrium is not
expected to occur, then biota sampling should occur at the end of the period of elevated
concentrations. In the absence of relevant accumulation and depuration information, biological
samples should be collected at the end of the period of elevated concentrations, to the extent
practicable.
6.2 General Planning Considerations
General planning considerations include use of the Data Quality Objectives (DQO) process,
selection of receptor species, variability of exposure, definition of representative population
exposures, and use of dosimetry models.
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Figure 6.1 Flow Diagram for Collecting Biological Samples to Produce Data for Dosimetric
Assessments of Biota
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6.2.1 Use of Data Quality Objectives
The biota sampling plan to support biota dose assessments must begin with a clear definition of
the study objectives and decisions to be made. Defining these objectives is best accomplished
through the use of the DQO process, as set forth in related DOE guidance (Bilyard et al. 1997).
This process compels investigators to fully consider the intended uses of the data they will
collect, ensures that the data users (e.g., including radioecologists, risk assessors, site
managers, and regulators) have considered the methods they will use to evaluate the data and
requires that the decision makers understand and agree with the objectives and limitations of
the sampling effort. At a minimum, the plan should define the populations to be evaluated,
select the receptors to be sampled, and determine the acceptable level of uncertainty
associated with the estimates of body burdens.
Section 113
6.2.2 Selection of Receptor Species Sampled
The most appropriate receptors to collect are those that meet the criteria for appropriate
assessment endpoints. These criteria include ecological relevance and relevance to
management goals (EPA 1988), susceptibility to irradiation, and a relatively high tendency for
bioaccumulation. Selection based on ecological relevance is not unique to the evaluation of
radionuclides and is not discussed further in this technical standard (see EPA 1998 and Suter
1993). Endpoints selected to meet management goals typically include species that are
protected (e.g., threatened and endangered species), economically important (e.g., salmon),
and culturally valued (e.g., medicinal plants used by Native Americans). The more general
management goal of protecting all other populations of biota should be met if care is taken to
select susceptible and ecologically relevant endpoints.
Susceptibility to irradiation is critical to the selection of species to be sampled. An organism is
considered susceptible if it is sensitive and exposed (EPA 1998). How readily an organism is
affected by radiation (i.e., its radiosensitivity) can vary by one or more orders of magnitude
among phylogenetically similar species (UNSCEAR 1996; see also Module 1, Section 1).
However, vertebrates and higher plants are generally more radiosensitive than invertebrates
and lower plants (UNSCEAR 1996). It is protection of these more evolved organisms that is the
basis of the acceptable dose limits and the focus of this technical standard (see Module 1,
Section 1 in this technical standard and NCRP 1991, IAEA 1992, and Barnthouse 1995).
Radiosensitivity within these more general classifications has been reviewed elsewhere
(UNSCEAR 1996). Unfortunately, the available data are too sparse to aid reliably in
discriminating among similar species at a site for the purposes of biota sampling. Two
exceptions are worth noting. First, salmonids are the most sensitive fishes that have been
tested to date. Second, pine trees (Pinus spp.) are among the most sensitive plants, with
sensitivity being correlated with the relatively large chromosomes of these species (IAEA 1992).
Moss-lichen communities are the most resistant, with woody and herbaceous vascular plants
ranging between pines and lichens (IAEA 1992).
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Exposure is an endpoint selection criterion that is frequently used synonymously with sensitivity.
While highly exposed biota may also be sensitive, this is not necessarily so. Because
radiosensitivity is poorly known for many potential endpoints, those species expected to
experience high exposure are frequently selected. Determination of exposure is based on two
types of information: (a) the expected isotopes, sources, fates, and transport processes at the
site; and (b) the behavior and habitat requirements of the biota at the site. This information is
then used to develop the conceptual site model for exposure. Although exposures will vary by
site, two general considerations are worth noting. First, receptors with small home ranges
relative to the defined sampling area are preferred because they will be more exposed to the
radionuclides at the site than will wide-ranging and migratory receptors. That is, the quality of
the site-specific bioaccumulation factors (Biv) is largely determined by the representativeness of
the exposure concentrations. Second, contaminants are often localized in particular
environmental media (e.g., cesium in soil and sediments, and tritium in water). Receptors with
behaviors that increase their contact with those media should be preferred. For example,
bottom-feeding fish may accumulate more cesium than fish feeding primarily in the water
column (IAEA 1994).
Section 114
6.2.3 Variability of Exposure
Exposure of the selected receptor may vary temporally and spatially. Exposure may vary
through time for several reasons. The radionuclide concentration in the receptor may not have
reached equilibrium with the ambient media if either the sources or the uptake by the receptor
are variable relative to the physical and biological half-lives of the radionuclide. For example,
contaminant discharges may vary seasonally while uptake by plants (especially annual plants)
will be controlled by the growing season. Also, the foods that are available may have different
tissue concentrations. Cesium levels in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), for example, were
found to be highest in August and September when fungi are most prevalent because fungi
accumulate more cesium than the herbs and grasses that the deer otherwise consumed (IAEA
1994). At a minimum, and to the extent practical, sampling should be timed to coincide with the
expected maximum tissue concentrations. It must be recognized that this is a biased sampling
design, resulting in the maximum annual internal exposure to the representative individual of
the population. The representative annual internal exposure to the representative individual of
the population would require repeated sampling throughout the year. This is desirable, but may
be impractical to implement and unnecessary to achieve the DQOs. Approaches to address
this source of variation should also incorporate the recommendations on time averaging
presented in Module 2, Section 3.
Exposure also may vary through space at ecologically relevant scales. There may be a
contamination gradient away from a source (e.g., discharges to water or air) or a highly
heterogeneous distribution resulting from complex fate and transport processes (e.g., fluvial
and alluvial deposition of contaminated sediment). Exposure may also vary due to the
discontinuity of the spatial distribution of contamination and habitat suitable for specific
receptors. For example, the magnitude of exposure experienced by an ecological receptor is a
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function of the overlap of contamination and habitat (Module 2, Section 4). If contamination and
suitable habitat do not overlap spatially, exposure is unlikely. Sampling designs that account
for these issues are presented in Section 6.3 of this Module.
6.2.4 Representative Population Exposures
It has been suggested that the acceptable Dose Rate Guidelines are “applicable to
representative rather than maximally exposed individuals” (Barnthouse 1995). For the
purposes of this section, it is assumed that representativeness refers to exposure within a
population, not exposure among all populations at a site. It also is important to realize that
representativeness does not refer to radiosensitivity within or among populations. Rather, it is
likely that a limited number of populations would be sampled with an emphasis on those that
are expected to be most exposed and sensitive, to the extent practical. The alternative is to
demonstrate that the representative individuals of the representative populations were sampled,
which would require much more extensive sampling. Hence, the expected reductions in
uncertainty must be weighed against the costs of additional sampling.
Section 115
It may be appropriate to define the receptor “population” to be sampled to include multiple
species that are expected to be similarly sensitive and exposed (e.g., ground-feeding
herbivores). The most common approach is to group organisms by trophic group or feeding
guild. Combining species is typically done to increase the number of sampling units or to obtain
the sample mass required for analysis. The disadvantage is that this may increase the
variability of the results. For example, shrews are known to ingest considerably more soil than
herbivorous small mammals (Talmage and Walton 1993). Hence, it is important to carefully
consider any expected differences in exposure.
6.2.5 Dosimetry Models
An important planning question is, “How will the internal concentrations be used to estimate
dose rates?” The dosimetric models available for biota are limited and relatively simplistic in
design. Isotopic whole-body concentrations for fish and wildlife and vegetative- or reproductive-
tissue concentrations for plants are generally recommended and sufficient for these models.
6.2.5.1 Aquatic and Terrestrial Vertebrates
The simplest approach is to modify the general screening model in this technical standard to
better reflect the actual exposures at the site. The screening method makes no assumptions
about the shape of the organism (e.g., an ellipsoid with specific dimensions) or the distribution
of isotopes within the organism. It may be possible to improve the estimated internal dose rate
by developing site-specific Bivs that can be substituted into the general screening method.
Indeed, this is what occurs in the site-specific screening component of the analysis phase of the
graded approach. Given the non-dimensional nature of the screening method, a Biv based on
whole-body concentrations would be sufficient for this approach.
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Whole-body concentrations also are sufficient for point-source dose distribution models that
assume a uniform distribution within the organism and a specific geometry (NCRP 1991 and
Baker and Soldat 1992). Mechanically homogenizing the whole organism dilutes any high-
concentration tissues with lower-concentration tissues. This approach yields the average
whole-body dose. The resulting whole body concentration would underestimate the actual dose
to highly contaminated tissue, assuming that the emitted radiations would be absorbed primarily
within that tissue (e.g., alpha particles and weak beta emissions). This uncertainty could only
be reduced by using an exposure model that explicitly accounts for the non-uniform
contaminant distribution.
Detailed dosimetric models are not available for most kinds of biota (Barnthouse 1995). Such
models would account for intra-organism distribution of radionuclides, the penetration of various
radioactive particles in a variety of tissues, and the geometry of the organism. In the absence
of a comprehensive research and development program, dosimetry for biota will continue to be
limited to the more simplistic and conservative dosimetric models that assume uniform
distribution within the organism. These models are assumed to be conservative because, in
part, the assumption of uniform contamination is unlikely to underestimate the actual dose to
the tissues of concern (i.e., reproductive organs), given two conditions. One condition is that
the radionuclide of concern must not be preferentially localized in or near the reproductive
tissues. Some elements are known to be preferentially deposited in bone (e.g., strontium).
However, reproductive tissues are not generally expected to be hyper-accumulators of
radionuclides, based on the available animal data (Garten 1981, Garten et al. 1987, and Kaye
and Dunaway 1962). The second condition is that the acceptable doses to the reproductive
tissues should be comparable to the acceptable whole-body doses. This should be a
reasonable assumption if the data used to derive the acceptable limits are based primarily on
studies of exposure to high-energy photons (e.g., Cs-137 or Co-60), which is generally the case
for biota (see NCRP 1991 and IAEA 1992). That is, the reproductive organs would not be
shielded by other tissues (e.g., muscle, bone, or skin) because high-energy photons would
penetrate the organism completely.
Section 116
Concentrations in muscle tissue are commonly used to calculate dietary exposures for humans
(DOE 1991). If biological samples are intended to be used to estimate both human and non
human exposures, then both muscle and carcass should be analyzed for at least some of the
samples, as is practicable. The use of muscle tissue alone may underestimate the Biv for non-
uniformly distributed elements. This is of particular concern when estimating food-chain
transfers for biota; wildlife generally consume the entire organism, not just the muscle tissue.
Hence, whole-body concentrations are generally the appropriate measurements for estimating
food chain transfers to biota.
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6.2.5.2 Terrestrial Plants
Plant concentrations are commonly based on individual tissues rather than the whole organism
(e.g., including roots and woody stems). Reproductive and growing vegetative tissues are
recommended because they are sensitive and the effects data are based primarily on exposure
to high-energy photons (IAEA 1992). That is, the site-specific dose to these tissues should be
consistent with the doses used to estimate acceptable radiation limits. A comprehensive
sampling effort would include both vegetative and reproductive tissues. If schedule and
resources do not allow for this, then selection of the tissues to be sampled should consider the
life history and physiology of the chosen plant species. For example, metals in general are
found at higher concentrations in foliage than in fruits and seeds (Greenleaf-Jenkins and
Zasoski 1986, Sadana and Singh 1987, Bysshe 1988, and Jiang and Singh 1994). However,
the available data are far too limited to generalize among all radionuclides and plant species.
In addition to the dose to plants, radionuclide concentrations in plants can be used to improve
the dose estimate for receptors at higher trophic levels (e.g., herbivores and omnivores).
Selection of the plant species and tissues to be sampled must consider the life history,
physiology, and feeding preferences of the representative consumers.
6.2.5.3 Analytical Requirements
A general sample preparation issue that should be considered is whether or not external
contamination is removed prior to analysis. On one hand, it would be prudent not to wash
external contamination from biota tissues prior to assay, as this would provide a more
conservative estimate of biota dose. On the other hand, including deposited contamination in
biota samples may be counter to the purpose of collecting site biota in order to improve the
reliability of the Biv and dietary exposure estimates. Although wildlife generally do not wash
their food, dietary exposure models often include contaminated soil as a separate variable
(Sample et al. 1997). Failure to remove external contamination would overestimate dietary
exposures if such models are used in their original form. Thus, the user should carefully
consider the exposure pathways to be included in calculating the Biv, and the types of models
that tissue concentration data may be applied in, when deciding on the inclusion or exclusion of
external contamination. See also Section 6.4.3.2, Sample Handling, of this Module.
6.2.5.4 Other Data Needs
Section 117
Collecting biota is only one component of any sampling plan intended to refine the dose
estimates produced by the graded approach; biota concentrations can only be used to improve
the estimated internal dose. External exposures must also be considered and may be an
important pathway for gamma-emitters (e.g., dose to aquatic biota from cesium in sediment).
At a minimum, the external dose rates from the screening method could be used in conjunction
with the site-specific internal exposures. It is important to consider past or planned
environmental sampling with respect to the planned biota sampling to ensure compatibility of
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sampling designs. That is, site-specific bioaccumulation factors are best derived from co-
located soil, sediment, and water radionuclide concentration data and biota samples. This
approach reduces the uncertainty of the bioaccumulation factors by ensuring that the ambient
media concentrations used to derive them are representative of the concentrations to which the
sampled organisms were exposed. This is straightforward for relatively immobile receptors
(e.g., plants and soil invertebrates) exposed to relatively immobile media (e.g., soil). Reducing
this uncertainty in bioaccumulation factors derived from mobile media (e.g., water) or for mobile
receptors (e.g., fish and small mammals) requires more extensive sampling protocols, which
should be evaluated as part of the DQO process.
6.3 Sampling Design and Statistical Methods
Many excellent texts have been written concerning sampling design and statistics, and it is
beyond the scope of this guidance to reiterate these texts. As you proceed in planning and
performing field sampling, you may refer to these texts for additional information concerning the
topics outlined below. Recommended references for general statistics include Snedecor and
Cochran (1980), Sokal and Rolf (1981), Dowdy and Wearden (1983), Zar (1984), and Newman
(1995). Discussions of the application of statistical methods to contamination studies are
provided by Provost (1984), Gilbert (1987), and the Washington State Department of Ecology
(WADOE 1992). Green (1979) is the pre-eminent text for sampling design for ecological field
studies. Krebs (1989) provides additional discussion of methods for the collection and analysis
of ecological data. For application to the DOE graded approach, the following discussion is
presented in three parts: sampling considerations, statistical considerations, and suggestions
for dealing with uncontrollable factors that influence sampling and analysis.
6.3.1 Sampling Considerations
For sampling, population definitions, sampling units, and sampling design must be considered.
6.3.1.1 Definition of Population
The population represents the group from which samples are to be taken and about which
conclusions will be made. The most critical component in sampling is to define the population
of interest. In the context of this guidance, the population of interest is the aggregation of
animals or plants that are resident at the radionuclide contaminated site (EPA 1998). This
population must be defined in terms of space (both of the site and in biological terms), time, and
receptor species. Only by defining the population of interest can the appropriate samples be
collected to determine the body burden of a representative individual.
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6.3.1.2 Sampling Units
Section 118
Sampling units represent the unit of material that is collected in an effort to draw inferences
about the population. Sampling units may be naturally occurring (e.g., whole animals or parts
of animals) or artificially derived (e.g., composite samples from quadrats). Sampling units must
cover the whole population and must be independent, i.e., they cannot overlap (Krebs 1989).
For this guidance, sampling units are likely to consist of whole organisms (e.g., vertebrates or
plants) or composites of biotic material (e.g., plants or invertebrates) collected from within
quadrats of other sampling devices. It is important to point out that sampling units are not
samples. A sample is a collection of sampling units. For example, if individual small mammals
represent the sampling unit, 20 small mammals collected from a given area represent the
sample (Ludwig and Reynolds 1988). If these 20 small mammals were collected using an
appropriate and valid design, the resulting data distribution (as characterized by statistics such
as the range, median, mean, variance, etc.) can be assumed to be representative of the
distribution of the population from which they were taken.
6.3.1.3 Types of Sampling Designs
Before field data can be collected, spatial and temporal arrangement of samples (i.e., a
sampling design) must be identified. The sampling design should be chosen so that the
distribution of data that is collected best represents the actual, underlying population
distribution. Excellent detailed discussions of sampling designs are presented by Green (1979),
Krebs (1989), and Gilbert (1987). Additional sampling designs, specific for sampling of small
mammals, are discussed in Call (1986), Jones et al. (1996), and EPA (1997). Sampling
designs for plants are discussed in Hays et al. (1981) and EPA (1994a, 1994b, and 1997). In
practice, sampling methods appropriate for the endpoint biota of interest (see Section 6.4) are
first selected; then, the times and locations when and where samples are collected are
determined by the sampling design. Three common and recommended sampling designs are
random, stratified random, and systematic sampling.
• Random Sampling. The validity of most statistical methods requires that samples be
collected randomly from within the population of interest. Random sampling uses the
concept of uniform probabilities to choose representative sample locations. The objective of
this sampling approach is to give each sampling unit in the population an equal probability
of being included in the sample. Random sampling generally is employed when little
information exists concerning the contamination or site. It is most effective when the
number of available sampling locations is large enough to lend statistical validity to the
random selection process.
• Stratified Random Sampling. Stratified random sampling involves the division of the
sample population into strata based on knowledge of certain characteristics within the
strata. Random samples are then taken from within these strata. This approach is used to
increase the precision of the estimates made by sampling; it is most applicable when the
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contaminant distribution is heterogeneous and clumped or associated with distinct habitats.
Stratified random sampling is advantageous when contaminant concentration distributions
within the strata are more homogeneous than they are between divisions.
Section 119
• Systematic Sampling. Systematic sampling involves the collection of samples at
predetermined, regular spatial or temporal intervals. It is the most often employed sampling
scheme. However, care must be used to avoid bias. If, for example, there are periodic
variations in the material to be sampled, the systematic plan may become phased with
these variations (Krebs 1989). A systematic plan often results from approaches that are
intended to be random. This is because investigators tend to subdivide a large sample area
into increments prior to randomization (Green 1979). Studies performed comparing results
from systematic and random sampling in ecological systems found no significant difference
(Krebs 1989). Consequently, Krebs (1989) suggests that systematic sampling be employed
for ecological applications, with the resulting data treated as if they were the results of
random samples.
6.3.1.4 Sampling Bias
Sampling bias refers to the lack of representativeness of the sample with respect to the
population of interest. This may result from the over-representation of sampling units that share
a particular characteristic due to nonrandomness in the sampling design or execution. In this
technical standard, the population of interest is the resident biota at the radionuclide
contaminated site, not just those residing in the most contaminated portions of the site.
Sampling only in areas of known contamination or hot spots, while potentially useful in
determining maximum risks, will result in biased samples that overestimate the exposure to the
representative individuals in the entire population at the site. Use of a good sampling design
will reduce the likelihood of generating biased results.
Sampling schemes that will result in biased samples should be avoided. These include
accessibility sampling (e.g., samples are collected at the most accessible locations), haphazard
sampling (e.g., where and when samples are collected is determined by the whims of the
investigator), or judgmental sampling (e.g., samples are collected based on the judgment of the
investigator, such as in hot-spot sampling) (Krebs 1989, Gilbert 1987).
6.3.1.5 Background/Reference Areas
In addition to originating from anthropogenic sources, radionuclides are naturally occurring and
ubiquitous in the environment. Quantities of naturally occurring radionuclides in the environ
ment can vary dramatically, depending on the geology of an area (Eisler 1994). The BCGs and
the biota dose limits for the protection of biota applied in this technical standard do not
differentiate between radionuclides originating from anthropogenic and natural sources. It is
important to recognize that it is the total weighted dose rate (i.e., taking into account all sources
and types of radiation) to biota at the site that is to be evaluated. Therefore, background dose
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rates should be included in the total weighted dose rate and should not be subtracted from the
dose rates at the site (Jones 2001). However, radiation dose rates at local background areas
can be used to ensure that the site-related dose rates represent an actual increase in exposure.
This is particularly important if remedial activities are being considered, so that limited
resources are not applied to an effort to remediate background levels of radionuclides.
Section 120
The solution is to compare the data from the contaminated site to that collected from one to
several uncontaminated background or reference sites. These sites should be selected such
that they are as comparable as possible to the contaminated site. Background sites should
possess similar geological, physical, chemical, and biological attributes, while being
uninfluenced by the activities or releases from the contaminated site. The level above which
contaminated media are determined to be greater than background should be determined
through the DQO process (see Bilyard et al. 1997). Maximum site concentrations that are twice
the mean background concentration have been commonly employed at hazardous waste sites
to establish differences from background (Suter et al. 2000). Other comparison approaches
are outlined in WADOE (1994), California EPA (1997), and Suter (1995). If the total weighted
dose rate at the site is comparable to or less than that at the local background area, then it is
unlikely that endemic biota populations are adversely affected from ionizing radiation at the site.
6.3.2 Statistical Considerations
Statistical concerns include underlying data distributions, summary statistics and confidence
limits, and minimum sampling size.
6.3.2.1 Determination of Underlying Data Distribution
Many statistical procedures require knowledge of, or at least an assumption about, the type of
distribution to which the data belong. Determining the distribution underlying the data is
generally performed using various goodness-of-fit tests. Methods to perform these tests, which
include the chi-square test, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, and others, are presented in many
statistical texts (e.g., Gilbert 1987, Zar 1984, and Sokal and Rohlf 1981). Computer programs
that fit distributions to sample data are also available. It should be noted that in most
goodness-of-fit tests, a particular distribution is assumed (as the null hypothesis of the test) and
the data are tested for the probability that they may have come from that distribution.
Therefore, acceptance of a “good fit” means that the assumed distribution could not be rejected
as a possible underlying distribution of the data and that statistical procedures based on that
distribution can probably be used with minimal chance of increased error rates. Acceptance of
a “good fit” does not mean that the data came only from the assumed distribution excluding all
other possibilities.
Two of the more common types of distributions encountered for environmental data are the
normal and lognormal distributions. A wide variety of tests are available to evaluate if the data
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are normally distributed. Three highly recommended tests include the Shapiro Wilk W test,
Filiben’s test, and the Studentized Range test (Breckenridge and Crockett 1998).
While some environmental samples may be normally distributed, most are likely to be best fit to
a lognormal distribution. An extensive discussion of the properties and applications of
lognormal distributions is provided by Burmaster and Hull (1997). In a lognormal distribution,
the log-transformed values display a normal distribution. Lognormal distributions may be
readily identified by performing the Shapiro Wilk W test on log-transformed data. If the
W statistic for the transformed data is not significant, then the data are lognormally distributed.
Burmaster and Hull (1997) present a simplified approach for fitting a lognormal distribution to
sample data based on probability plots.
Section 121
An important component of determining distributions is the identification of outliers. Outliers are
data values that are extreme upper or lower tails of the observed data. These values may or
may not be representative of the overall data distribution of interest. Statistical methods for the
identification of outlier values are presented in Gilbert (1987), Newman (1995), and WADOE
(1992).
6.3.2.2 Calculation of Summary Statistics and Confidence Limits
Summary statistics describe the shape, spread, and location of the data (on the real number
line). These values can then be used to determine the minimum number of samples required
for statistical comparisons between samples from different populations. Because the
estimation of summary statistics such as the mean and variance from sample data can be
biased due to the shape of the underlying distribution, methods for estimating these statistics
that control for bias have been developed for some specific distribution types. Selected
formulas for calculation of summary statistics are briefly outlined below. Users should refer to
the cited texts when applying these methods. Additional detail and formulas may be found in
many standard statistical texts, including Zar (1983), Gilbert (1987), Green (1979), Krebs
(1989), and WADOE (1992).
The mean and standard deviation for a normal distribution may be calculated using the
following formulas (Zar 1983):
n
3xi
i'1 x '
n
2 (3xi)3xi &
n s '
n & 1
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where x̄ = arithmetic mean;
xi = value for the ith sample measurement;
n = sample size; and
s = standard deviation of the arithmetic mean.
Confidence intervals are limits representing a range within which there is a quantified degree of
surety that the true population mean lies. Confidence intervals are calculated using the sample
mean, standard deviation, and values from the students-t distribution that are selected based
on the sample size (n) and the α level (the likelihood that the true mean falls outside of the
confidence interval) that is acceptable. A standard formula for calculating the confidence
interval of the sample mean (Dowdy and Wearden 1983) is:
s x ± t(1&α/2), n&1
n
where s is the standard deviation of the arithmetic mean.
Values for the students-t distribution (t(1-α/2), –1) are readily obtained from tables presented in
most statistical texts.
If the underlying distribution of the data is determined to be lognormal, four methods to estimate
the mean ( µ̂ ) and standard deviation ( δ̂2
) are available (Gilbert 1987). One of the simplest of
these methods is:
µ̂ ' exp(ȳ % sy
2/2)
δ̂2
' µ̂2 [exp(s y
2 )&1]
where ȳ and sy
2 are the arithmetic mean and variance for the transformed values yi = ln xi.
Confidence limits on the mean of the lognormal distribution may also be calculated:
s yH1&αUCL1&α ' exp(y % 0.5sy
2
% )
n&1
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s Hαy )LCLα ' exp(y % 0.5sy
2
%
n&1
with UCL1-α and LCLα representing the upper and lower confidence limits, respectively, and sy
being the square root of the variance of the transformed values (sy
2). Values for H are obtained
from a table in Land (1975); Gilbert (1987) presents a subset of these values.
6.3.2.3 Determination of Minimum Sampling Size
Section 122
A key question in any sampling effort is how many samples need to be taken. The answer
depends on the degree of precision in the estimate of the population mean that is desired and
the acceptable probability of error. Determining the minimum sample size is a two-step process
in which a preliminary sample is taken and the mean and variance from this sample are used to
estimate the appropriate sample size. Methods for determining minimum sample sizes for data
from a normal distribution are presented in Krebs (1989), Green (1979), and Gilbert (1987).
If the desired variance (V) of the mean (0) is specified, the number of samples required is
calculated as follows (Gilbert 1987):
n ' (s 2/V)(1%2/n1)
where n = estimated number of samples required;
n1 = number of preliminary samples taken; and
s2 = variance from preliminary samples.
If the desired margin of error is specified, the number of samples is
n ' (Z1&α/2 δ/d)2
where Z1-α/2 is the standard normal deviate (readily obtained from Z-tables in most statistical
texts), δ is the standard deviation of the population being sampled, and d is the relative error
(expressed in the same units as the samples, xi).
Gilbert (1987) also reports a method for determining sample size to estimate the median for a
lognormal distribution:
)2 2 )2 2 n ' (Z1&α/2 s / [ ln(d&1)]2 % (Z1&α/2 sy / Ny
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where N is the number of potential sampling units in the population (generally assumed to be
very large), and d is the prespecified tolerable relative error in the median.
If the estimated sample size that results cannot be supported within the budget constraints of
the study or sufficient biota are not available, Gilbert (1987) suggests considering either a larger
percent error or lower confidence (greater α). For example, if we are determining the minimum
sample size for a median from a lognormal distribution, and if we assume d = 0.1 (10% relative
error), α = 0.05, s2
y = 2, and N being very large, the estimated sample size will be >800 (Gilbert
1987). However, if the acceptable relative error is increased to 50% (d = 0.5) with α = 0.05, the
minimum sample size declines to a more manageable 47.
6.3.3 Uncontrollable Events
Uncontrollable events are an inherent component of any field sampling. Equipment breaks or
fails to operate as expected, weather conditions impair sampling efficacy, or target species of
interest either are not present at the site or do not respond to the selected sampling method.
Consequences of these sorts of events are sample sizes smaller than the calculated minimum
and data that may not be representative of the population at the site. The occurrence of
uncontrollable events generally results in an increase in the uncertainty associated with the data
and a weakening of the strength of conclusions that can be made from these data. Such
events are not, however, insurmountable.
A simple approach to dealing with uncontrollable events is to expect their occurrence and
develop contingency plans. These plans could include alternate endpoint species, sampling
methods, or sampling designs if the first choice is not available or does not work. In some
cases, however, no contingency plan will solve the problem. In these instances, it is likely that
the investigator will have to accept less than ideal data and, therefore, greater uncertainty. In
these situations, it is imperative that the investigator report detailed statistical summaries of the
data along with explanations of the uncontrolled events and how they may have influenced the
final results. These descriptions will allow risk managers to determine the quality and utility of
the data.
Section 123
6.4 Biota Sampling Methods
A wide variety of methods are available for collecting biota samples for contaminant analyses,
with sampling methods generally being medium- or taxon-specific. Common collection
methods for aquatic (e.g., fish, benthic invertebrates, reptiles, and amphibians) and terrestrial
biota (e.g., plants, mammals, birds, and earthworms) are outlined below. Application of these
methods within an appropriate sampling design will generate samples that can be used to
define the radionuclide body burden experienced by representative individuals at the site.
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6.4.1 Aquatic Biota
Aquatic biota include fish, benthic invertebrates, and amphibians and reptiles.
6.4.1.1 Fish
Sampling techniques for fish include electrofishing, nets, or traps. Selection of the appropriate
method will depend on the species of interest and the type of aquatic system being sampled.
Most of these techniques may require a scientific collection license or similar permission. In
electrofishing, an electric current is employed to stun fish, which are then captured with a net.
Electrofishing is effective for both juveniles and adults of most species and for sampling
structurally complex habitats. It also efficiently samples large areas in a relatively limited time
while capturing a large percentage of individuals within an area. Numerous studies indicate
that under proper conditions, electrofishing can be the most effective sampling technique
(Jacobs and Swink 1982, Wiley and Tsai 1983, and Layher and Maughan 1984).
Disadvantages include potential mortality (not a significant issue for sampling for contaminant
analyses); low efficacy for benthic or deep water species, for very low- or high-conductivity
water, and for turbid water; and potential hazards to users. Additional information on
electrofishing can be found in Hartley (1980) and Reynolds (1983).
A wide variety of nets and traps are used to sample fish populations. Two basic types exist:
nets that snag or entangle fish, and traps or net arrangements that provide a holding area into
which fish are enticed. The most common entanglement nets are gill nets and trammel nets
that use an open mesh through which fish attempt to swim. As the fish attempts to pass
through, gill covers or fins become snagged on the fine filament netting. Gill nets are generally
more effective in turbid water and areas without snags (Hubert 1983) and are effective for
sampling deep areas not accessible by other techniques. Gill nets are also highly effective for
a variety of larger fish sizes (depending on mesh size used) and for fast swimming or schooling
species. Disadvantages include potential injury or mortality of snagged fish, the ability of any
one gill net mesh size to sample only a limited size of fish, the capture of nontarget species at
high rates (with the resulting increase in sampling time and total mortality), low success for fish
species with low mobility (e.g., sunfish), and highly variable results. Further details are given in
Hartley (1980), Hamley (1980), and Hubert (1983).
Stationary fish traps include fyke nets, hoop nets, trap nets, and pot gear (e.g., slat baskets and
minnow traps). All of these devices work by allowing the movement of the fish to take them
through a small opening into a larger holding area. Stationary traps are available in small
(minnow traps) to large (fyke nets) sizes, allowing multiple species and life stages to be
sampled. Because fish remain alive while in the trap, they do not need to be checked as
frequently as entanglement nets. Stationary traps are effective for cover-seeking species (e.g.,
sunfish) or benthic species (e.g., catfish). Disadvantages of these traps are that they are not
equally effective for all species and that catch rates are susceptible to changes in temperature
Section 124
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and turbidity. The larger fyke, trap, and hoop nets are most effective in reservoirs, ponds,
lakes, and river backwaters. Pot gear and smaller hoop nets can be more effective in smaller
streams or faster water. In both cases, traps can be combined with weirs or directional
structures that channel fish into areas where the traps are deployed. Additional discussions
can be found in Craig (1980) and Hubert (1983).
6.4.1.2 Benthic Invertebrates
Many techniques are suitable for collecting benthic macroinvertebrates for exposure evaluation,
including grab and core samplers for standing waters, and kick sampling or Surber samplers for
running water (Murkin et al. 1994).
Grab samplers such as the Ekman, Petersen, Ponar, and Smith-McIntyre samplers may also be
used to collect organisms from deep-water habitats. These devices engulf a portion of
substrate (and its associated organisms), which is then hauled to the surface for processing.
Organisms are separated from the sample material by washing the substrate in a box screen.
Grab samplers are generally easy to use and are suitable for a variety of water depths. Depth
of sediment penetration may vary with sediment type and rocks or other obstructions may
prevent complete closure, resulting in partial sample loss. Because grab samplers tend to
produce large samples, the processing effort may be considerable (Murkin et al. 1994). Isom
(1978) reviews several types of grab samplers, their specifications, the type of substrate each
was designed for, and advantages and disadvantages associated with each type. Standard
methods for the collection of benthic invertebrates using various types of grab samplers are
also presented in ASTM (1997).
Core samplers may be employed in both shallow and deep water. They consist of a metal or
plastic tube which is inserted into the substrate. When the tube is removed, samples of both
the substrate and organisms are obtained (Murkin et al. 1994). The samples are then washed
in a sieve and the organisms are removed from the remaining sample debris. Core samplers
are inappropriate for loose or unconsolidated sediment, sand, or gravel (Murkin et al. 1994).
Additional information on core sampling can be found in Smock et al. (1992) and Williams and
Hynes (1973).
Kick sampling is a sample method used in running waters. A net is placed against the
streambed, and the substrate upstream of the mouth of the net is agitated for a defined time
period to suspend the organisms, which are then washed into the net by the current (Murkin
et al. 1994). While this method is easy, the exact area sampled is undefined; therefore, it is
unsuitable when quantitative samples are needed.
When quantitative samples from running water are needed, Surber samplers should be used.
Surber samplers consist of a frame with an attached net. The frame is placed on the
streambed, the substrate within the frame is disturbed and rocks and other debris are rubbed to
dislodge invertebrates. Water current carries invertebrates into the sampling net (Murkin et al.
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1994). Standard methods for the collection of benthic invertebrates using Surber and related
types of samplers are presented in ASTM (1997).
6.4.1.3 Amphibians and Reptiles
Methods selected to sample reptiles and amphibians will vary depending on the type of habitat,
time of year, weather conditions, and age of target species. Representative techniques for
sampling reptiles and amphibians in aquatic and terrestrial habitats include opportunistic
collection by hand, nets and traps, electrofishing, and seines. Additional discussion of methods
may be found in Jones (1986) and Heyer et al. (1994).
Section 125
Opportunistic collection consists of searching suitable habitats for species of interest. Once
found, individuals are collected by hand, net, or other devices that may facilitate immobilizing
individuals.
Numerous types of nets and traps are available for sampling herpetofauna. Traps are generally
effective for alligators, turtles, snakes, and aquatic salamanders. Stebbins (1966), Conant
(1975), and Shine (1986) discuss various aquatic trapping methods. Some traps may be set by
one person. To prevent inadvertent mortality from trapping, traps should be checked at least
daily (trap mortality is generally low if checked often). Aquatic traps should be set partially
above water line to permit the captured organisms to breathe.
Although developed for sampling fish, electrofishing may also be very effective for aquatic
salamanders and aquatic snakes (Jones 1986). This method occasionally yields turtles, sirens,
and hellbenders. Electrofishing requires two or more people (a shocker and a netter) and is
most effective in shallow water (streams, ponds, and shallow rivers). Deep-water habitats
(lakes, reservoirs, and embayments) may be shocked from boats, but this approach is probably
less effective for most herpetofauna than for fish. One disadvantage is that electroshocking
may cause some mortality, especially in hot weather.
The use of small-mesh seines (7 mm or less) is moderately effective for sampling of aquatic
salamanders, frogs, snakes, and turtles (Jones 1986). This method requires at least two
people to operate the seine. Other personnel are beneficial for disturbing the substrate,
blocking potential escape routes, and handling the catch.
6.4.2 Terrestrial Biota
Terrestrial biota taken for sampling include plants, mammals, birds, earthworms, and terrestrial
arthropods.
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6.4.2.1 Plants
Collecting plant material for residue analyses is a simple procedure. After plants of the
appropriate species are identified in accordance with a suitable sampling design, they may be
sampled either as whole organisms (roots plus aboveground parts) or as discrete parts (roots,
foliage, seeds, fruit, etc.). Samples may be collected by stripping or breaking parts from the
plant, by cutting plant parts with shears, or by digging up plants with a spade. Additional
information on vegetation sampling for contaminant analysis, including sampling designs, may
be found in EPA (1997), EPA (1996), DOE (1987), EPA (1994a), EPA (1994b), Hays et al.
(1981), and Temple and Wills (1979).
6.4.2.2 Mammals
Numerous methods are available for collecting mammals. Suitable methods vary by species
and habitat, with multiple methods often being suitable for the same species (Jones et al.
1996). For risk assessment purposes, small mammals, primarily within the orders Rodentia,
and Insectivora, are the taxa most commonly collected. This is because they are often
assessment endpoints themselves, important food items for predatory endpoints, and more
likely to be present in sufficient numbers than larger mammals. Methods discussed will,
therefore, focus on these taxa. Methods for collecting other mammalian taxa are discussed in
Wilson et al. (1996), Schemnitz (1994), Kunz (1988a), and Nagorsen and Peterson (1980).
Section 126
Small mammals are generally collected by one of three methods: snap traps, box traps, or
pitfall traps. Snap traps are the familiar “mouse trap,” consisting of a spring-powered metal
bale that is released when the animal contacts the baited trigger pan (Jones et al. 1996).
These traps are lethal, with animals being killed by cervical dislocation. Nagorsen and Peterson
(1980) report snap traps to be the most successful trapping method for small rodents and
insectivores. However, because they are non-selective, snap traps may collect any animal that
may be attracted to the bait. This may be a serious concern if threatened or endangered
species are believed to be resident in the study area.
Box traps are the most effective method for capturing small mammals unharmed (Jones et al.
1996). The use of box traps allows the selection of species of interest and the release of non-
target species. Box traps are typically metal or wooden boxes with openings at one or both
ends and a baited trip pan. Animals are captured when they contact the trip pan, causing
spring-loaded doors to close. Captured animals may be maintained in box traps for up to
several hours if food and bedding are provided. The type and size of the trap, ambient
conditions at the trapping site, and body size of animals to be trapped all influence trapping
success (Jones et al. 1996). Because some animals are reluctant to enter box traps (shrews in
particular), box traps are not as effective as snap traps (Nagorsen and Peterson 1980).
Pitfall traps consist of a container buried into the ground so that its rim is flush with the surface.
Animals are captured when they fall into the container. Pitfall traps are among the most
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effective traps for collecting shrews (Jones et al. 1996). Success rates for pitfall traps may be
dramatically increased by employing drift fences. Drift fences are barriers of metal, plastic,
fiberglass, or wood that direct small mammals into the pitfall trap. Pitfall traps may be
employed as either live or killing traps. Killing pitfall traps are partially filled with water to drown
animals. Live pitfall traps must be at least 40 cm deep to prevent small mammals from jumping
out (Jones et al. 1996).
Both snap traps and box traps must be baited. Baits depend on the species sought. Generally,
peanut butter and oats or other seeds are effective for most granivorous or omnivorous small
mammals (Jones et al. 1996). Because small mammals simply fall into pitfall traps, these traps
do not need to be baited (Nagorsen and Peterson 1980). Trapping success is generally
enhanced if traps are set but locked open within the sampling area for several days prior to
trapping. This allows the animals to acclimatize to the presence of the traps. Once traps are
baited and set, both snap and box traps should be checked daily. Pitfall traps should be
checked more frequently (twice daily) to prevent shrews from starving or consuming each other
(Jones et al. 1996).
Trap placement to collect animals for contaminant analysis differs from a population survey.
Sampling for contaminant analyses does not require a trapping array suitable to determine
density. Sampling along transects is adequate. Jones et al. (1996) recommend that traps be
placed along transects that are at least 150 m long with traps placed every 10 to 15 m.
Regardless of spacing, traps should be placed at habitat features favored by or indicative of
small mammals, e.g., logs, trees, runways, burrow entrances, dropping piles, etc. (Jones et al.
1996, Nagorsen and Peterson 1980). In addition, sampling must be appropriately distributed
with respect to concomitant distributions and locations where media are sampled. Additional
discussion of trap placement and sampling designs specific for sampling of small mammals are
presented in Call (1986), Jones et al. (1996), and EPA (1997).
Section 127
6.4.2.3 Birds
Methods for collecting birds include firearms, baited traps, cannon nets, mist nets, drive and
drift traps, decoy and enticement lures, and nest traps (Schemnitz 1994). Methods employed
depend upon the species to be sampled. Additional information concerning methods for
capturing birds may be found in Schemnitz (1994), the North American Bird Banding Manual
(USFWS and Canadian Wildlife Service 1977), Guide to Waterfowl Banding (Addy 1956), and
Bird Trapping and Bird Banding (Bub 1990).
Firearms used to collect birds may include rifles, shotguns, or pellet guns. This method, while
highly dependant on the skill of field personnel, may be used for all groups of birds. However,
because samples may be extensively damaged during collection, projectiles or shot may
interfere with contaminant analyses. Moreover, because of safety considerations, the use of
firearms is not a recommended sampling method. In addition, the use of firearms precludes
repeated sampling of the same individual.
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Baited traps are most useful for gregarious, seed-eating birds. In their simplest form, a wire-
mesh box is supported at one side by a stick over bait (generally seeds or grain). Once birds
enter the box to feed on the seeds, the operator pulls a string attached to the support stick, the
box falls, and the birds are entrapped. Other types of baited traps include funnel or ladder
traps. These traps are designed with entrances through which birds can easily enter but not
easily exit.
Cannon nets may be used for birds that are too wary to enter traps. This type of trap is
frequently used for wild turkey and waterfowl and has been successfully used for sandhill
cranes and bald eagles (Schemnitz 1994). Cannon nets consist of a large, light net that is
carried over baited birds by mortars or rockets. In use, nets are laid out and baited for 1 to
2 weeks to allow the birds to become acclimated to the net and bait. Once birds make regular
use of the bait, the trap may be deployed.
Mist netting is a method useful for some species that are not attracted to baits. A detailed
review of the use and application of mist nets is provided by Keyes and Grue (1982). This
method may be used for birds as large as ducks, hawks, or pheasant but is most applicable to
passerines and other birds under ~200 g. Mist nets are constructed from fine black silk or
nylon fibers; the nets are usually 0.9 to 2.1 m wide by 9.0 to 11.6 m long, attached to a cord
frame with horizontal crossbraces called “shelfstrings” (Schemnitz 1994). The net is attached
to poles at either end such that the shelfstrings are tight but the net is loose. The loose net
hangs down below the shelf strings, forming pockets. When the net is properly deployed, birds
(or bats) strike the net and become entangled in the net pocket. Mist nets may be employed
passively or actively. In a passive deployment, nets are set across flight corridors and birds are
caught as they fly by. For an active deployment, a group of nets is set and birds are driven
toward the nets. Another effective approach is to use recorded calls of conspecifics or distress
calls to attract birds to the net.
The following must be considered when using mist nets:
C Avoid windy conditions; wind increases the visibility of the net.
C Check nets frequently. Unintended mortality may result from stress if birds are left in the
net for more than 1 hour.
C Do not use mist nets during rain. Birds may become soaked, and mortality may result from
hypothermia.
Section 128
C Special permits are required to use mist nets for migratory birds. These must be obtained
from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
M2-66
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Drive and drift traps consist of nets or low wire mesh fencing erected at ground level. Birds are
driven or herded into the fence, which then guides them into an enclosure. This method is most
frequently used to capture waterfowl while they are molting and flightless. Drift traps have also
been used successfully with upland gamebirds, rails, and shorebirds (Schemnitz 1994).
Because many birds are reluctant to flush and fly when birds of prey are present, trapping
success may be enhanced by playing recorded hawk calls.
Decoy and enticement lures are used most frequently for birds of prey. The most common trap
of this type is the bal-chatri trap. This trap consists of a wire mesh cage, on top of which are
attached numerous monofilament nooses. A small bird or rodent is placed in the trap as bait.
When a hawk or owl attempts to attack the bait, it becomes entangled in the nooses.
Nest traps are useful to capture birds at the nest for reproductive studies. For ground-nesting
birds, drop nets erected over the nest are sometimes effective. For cavity nesting birds, trip
doors may be devised that can be closed once the adult enters the nest. Other types of nest
traps are discussed by Schemnitz (1994).
6.4.2.4 Earthworms
The primary methods for collecting earthworms are hand sorting of soil, wet sieving, flotation,
and the application of expellants. Hand sorting is regarded as the most accurate sampling
method and is frequently used to evaluate the efficacy of other methods (Satchell 1970,
Springett 1981). While accurate, hand sorting is very laborious and may underestimate the
abundance of small individuals. Its efficiency depends on the density of the root mat, clay
content of the soil, and weather conditions, if sorting is done in the field. Wet sieving consists
of using a water jet and a sieve to separate earthworms from the soil (Satchell 1970). The
efficiency of this method is not documented, and it may damage worms during washing.
Flotation is another water-extraction method (Satchell 1970). Soil samples are placed in water;
earthworms are collected as they float to the surface. This method may be used to extract egg
capsules and adults of species too small to recover efficiently by hand sorting.
In contrast to methods that require excavation and processing of soil, expellants are applied in
situ to collect earthworms. In practice, an expellant solution is applied to the soil surface within
a sampling frame laid on the soil and allowed to percolate. Earthworms are then collected as
they emerge from the soil. To enhance absorption of the expellant by the soil and to facilitate
collection of earthworms as they emerge, vegetation at each sampling location should be
clipped down to the soil surface. Expellants have traditionally consisted of formaldehyde or
potassium permanganate solutions (Satchell 1970, Raw 1959). Drawbacks to these expellants
include carcinogenicity, phytotoxicity, and toxicity to earthworms. In addition, these expellants
also may introduce additional contamination and interfere with contaminant analysis. As an
alternative, Gunn (1992) suggested the use of a mustard solution as an expellant. A commer
cially available prepared mustard emulsion was mixed with water at a rate of 15 mL/L and
applied to soil within a 1-m2 frame (to confine the expellant). Efficacy of mustard was found to
Section 129
M2-67
DOE-STD-1153-2002
be superior to formaldehyde and equivalent to potassium permanganate (Gunn 1992). Recent
work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory indicates that dry mustard (1 tsp/L) is also an effective
expellant (B. Sample, pers. obs.). If worm samples are being collected for residue analysis,
analyses should be performed on samples of the mustard expellant. These data will indicate if
any contamination can be attributed to the extraction method.
6.4.2.5 Terrestrial Arthropods
Many methods are available to sample terrestrial arthropods. Because of the great diversity of
life-history traits and habitats exploited by arthropods, no single method is efficient for capturing
all taxa (Julliet 1963). Every sampling method has some associated biases and provides
reliable population estimates for only a limited number of taxa (Kunz 1988b, Cooper and
Whitmore 1990). Reviews of sampling methods for insects and other arthropods were given by
Southwood (1978), Kunz (1988b), Cooper and Whitmore (1990), and Murkin et al. (1994).
Descriptions of 12 commonly employed methods, arthropod groups for which they are
appropriate, and advantages and disadvantages of each are summarized in Table 5.1.
6.4.3 Additional Sampling Considerations
Apart from methods and target species, a variety of concerns relate to sampling: quality
assurance/quality control, sample handling, permitting, killing of sample animals, and human
health and safety.
6.4.3.1 Quality Assurance/Quality Control
To ensure that all data collected are of the highest quality, verifiable, defensible, and suitable
for regulatory decisions, a quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) plan should be
developed and all data collected and evaluated in accordance with this plan. General QA/QC
requirements are outlined in DOE Order 414.1A (DOE 1999b). Specifications and guidelines
for quality systems for environmental data collection and environmental technology programs
are presented in ASQC (1994).
6.4.3.2 Sample Handling
The manner in which biological samples are handled and prepared will have a profound
influence on the utility of the resulting data for risk assessment purposes. Sample-handling
issues include how samples are pooled (i.e., compositing), sample washing, and denudation.
If the amount of sample material is too small for accurate radionuclide analysis (e.g., individual
earthworms or other invertebrates or organs from vertebrates), samples from multiple
individuals may be composited to produce a sample of sufficient size. Alternatively, samples
may be composited over the contaminated site in an effort to reduce analytical costs. While the
resulting composited sample represents the mean radionuclide concentration from all included
M2-68
DOE-STD-1153-2002
samples, it does not provide any information concerning the distribution of contaminant levels
about the mean. Consequently, minimum and maximum values within the composite are
unknown, a single high or low concentration may dominate the resulting composite value, and
the composite value may over- or underestimate the concentrations present in the majority of
samples. Compositing of samples must be appropriate for the intended use of the data.
Compositing is generally suitable for biota samples to be used for dietary exposure modeling.
This is because consumers are exposed to the average concentration in their diet. In contrast,
if the samples are to represent internal body burdens for endpoint species (e.g., concentrations
in target organs), compositing of samples will result in underestimates of body burdens.
Because compositing samples loses information and may result in biased estimates, all
compositing must be performed with caution.
Section 130
In addition to containing contaminants within their tissue matrix, biota samples may have
external contamination in the form of soil or dust adhering to their surfaces. Depending on the
purpose of the analyses and the intended use of the analytical results, these external residues
may or may not be washed off prior to analysis. If the contaminant of interest has a significant
aerial deposition pathway or if soil ingestion is not being considered in the exposure model,
then samples should not be washed. It should be recognized that these unwashed samples will
be biased and will represent both bioaccumulation factors and external adhesion of
contaminants.
Depuration refers to the voiding of the GI tract of sampled animals and is a consideration
primarily for earthworms. Undepurated earthworms will generally have higher radionuclide
concentrations than depurated earthworms from the same location. This is due to the large
amount of soil retained in the GI tract of undepurated earthworms. Radionuclides in the soil in
the GI tract will bias the body-burden estimates. If the model used to estimate exposure of
animals that consume earthworms does not include a term for soil ingestion, this bias is not
critical. However, if a soil ingestion term occurs in the model, the use of undepurated worms
will result in some double counting of the amount of soil consumed and will overestimate
exposure.
6.4.3.3 Permits
In most states, collecting biota is regulated by fish and game laws. National and international
statutes may also apply, depending upon the species of interest. As a consequence, before
any biota collection program is initiated, all appropriate permits must be obtained. Failure to
obtain the needed permits may result in the rejection of the data or civil or criminal actions
against the parties involved. For example, taking of migratory waterfowl requires a USFWS
permit or a state hunting license (in season) and a Federal waterfowl stamp. Any activity
involving threatened or endangered species requires a permit from the USFWS and/or the
responsible state conservation agency. Permits for the collection of migratory birds must also
be obtained from the USFWS. All states regulate the collection of fur-bearing species, such as
muskrats, and game mammals, such as deer. In many states, collection of large numbers of
M2-69
DOE-STD-1153-2002
small mammals and lagomorphs requires special collection permits. Local USFWS offices and
state fish and wildlife agencies should provide assistance on regulations and permits that are
required.
6.4.3.4 Euthanasia
Although most capture techniques described are designed to capture animals alive, animals
generally must be sacrificed prior to preparation for contaminant residue analysis. (An
exception is blood, fur, or feather residue analysis, which may be performed on live animals.) It
is essential that humane euthanasia methods be employed to sacrifice animals for analysis.
Gullet (1987) provides a detailed discussion of euthanasia methods for birds; these methods
are also adaptable for mammals. Euthanasia may be achieved using either physical or
chemical methods. Physical methods include cervical dislocation, decapitation, stunning and
bleeding (exsanguination), and shooting. Chemical methods include lethal injection or
inhalation of anesthetic or toxic gas. There are a number of questions to consider when
choosing a technique (Gullet 1987):
C Is it appropriate for the size and type of animal?
Section 131
C Does it present a risk to human health and safety?
C Is specialized equipment or training required?
C Is it time- and cost-effective?
C Will the technique offend the casual observer?
C Is it humane?
6.4.3.5 Health and Safety
Many wild animals either have or serve as vectors for parasites and pathogens that are
communicable to humans. These include ticks, mites, rabies, hantavirus, and histoplasmosis.
Depending on the taxa being collected, anyone involved in collection or preparation may be
exposed. To ensure the health and safety of personnel, it is imperative that disease be
considered as part of the sampling protocol and that all appropriate protective measures be
taken. Kunz et al. (1996) present an extensive discussion of human health concerns
associated with mammalian sampling.
M2-70
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
6
.1
C
om
pa
ris
on
o
f C
om
m
on
A
rt
hr
op
od
S
am
pl
in
g
T
ec
hn
iq
ue
s(a
)
M
et
h
o
d
M
et
h
o
d
D
es
cr
ip
ti
o
n
A
rt
h
ro
p
o
d
s
S
am
p
le
d
A
d
va
n
ta
g
es
D
is
ad
va
n
ta
g
es
S
tic
ky
T
ra
p
A
dh
es
iv
e
m
at
er
ia
l a
pp
lie
d
to
a
s
ur
fa
ce
, u
su
al
ly
cy
lin
dr
ic
al
; a
rt
hr
op
od
s
ad
he
re
to
s
ur
fa
ce
u
po
n
co
nt
ac
t.
F
ly
in
g
or
ot
he
rw
is
e
ac
tiv
e
ar
th
ro
po
ds
S
im
pl
e,
in
ex
pe
ns
iv
e,
ve
rs
at
ile
, a
nd
p
or
ta
bl
e
M
es
sy
; t
em
pe
ra
tu
re
a
ffe
ct
s
ad
he
si
ve
; a
dh
es
iv
e
lik
el
y
to
in
te
rf
er
e
w
ith
r
es
id
ue
a
na
ly
si
s;
re
m
ov
al
o
f s
am
pl
es
fr
om
a
dh
es
iv
e
di
ffi
cu
lt;
r
eq
ui
re
s
us
e
of
h
az
ar
do
us
ch
em
ic
al
s;
q
ua
nt
ifi
ca
tio
n
of
a
re
a
sa
m
pl
ed
d
iff
ic
ul
t.
M
al
ai
se
T
ra
p
F
in
e
m
es
h
ne
tti
ng
‘T
en
t’
w
ith
b
af
fle
s
th
at
g
ui
de
ar
th
ro
po
ds
in
to
a
co
lle
ct
io
n
ja
r
th
at
m
ay
o
r
m
ay
n
ot
c
on
ta
in
a
k
ill
in
g
ag
en
t/p
re
se
rv
at
iv
e
P
rim
ar
ily
fl
yi
ng
ar
th
ro
po
ds
;
cr
aw
lin
g
ar
th
ro
po
ds
to
a
le
ss
er
d
eg
re
e
V
er
sa
til
e
an
d
si
m
pl
e
to
u
se
; s
am
pl
es
su
ita
bl
e
fo
r
re
si
du
e
an
al
ys
is
(
de
pe
nd
s
on
us
e
of
p
re
se
rv
at
iv
e)
E
xp
en
si
ve
a
nd
b
ul
ky
; c
at
ch
st
ro
ng
ly
a
ffe
ct
ed
b
y
tr
ap
pl
ac
em
en
t;
bi
as
ed
a
ga
in
st
C
ol
eo
pt
er
a;
fe
w
er
c
at
ch
es
p
er
u
ni
t
tim
e;
q
ua
nt
ifi
ca
tio
n
of
a
re
a
sa
m
pl
ed
d
iff
ic
ul
t
S
ha
ke
-C
lo
th
C
lo
th
o
r
ca
tc
h
ba
si
n
pl
ac
ed
b
en
ea
th
p
la
nt
;
w
he
n
pl
an
t i
s
be
at
en
o
r
sh
ak
en
, a
rt
hr
op
od
s
dr
op
on
to
s
he
et
a
nd
a
re
co
lle
ct
ed
F
ol
ia
ge
-d
w
el
lin
g
ar
th
ro
po
ds
S
im
pl
e,
fa
st
, a
nd
e
as
y
to
p
er
fo
rm
; r
eq
ui
re
s
m
in
im
al
e
qu
ip
m
en
t;
sa
m
pl
es
s
ui
ta
bl
e
fo
r
re
si
du
e
an
al
ys
is
B
ia
se
d
ag
ai
ns
t a
ct
iv
e
ar
th
ro
po
ds
an
d
in
di
vi
du
al
s
th
at
a
dh
er
e
tig
ht
ly
to
v
eg
et
at
io
n;
q
ua
nt
ifi
ca
tio
n
of
a
re
a
sa
m
pl
ed
d
iff
ic
ul
t.
S
w
ee
p
N
et
A
m
on
g
m
os
t w
id
el
y
us
ed
m
et
ho
ds
; i
ns
ec
t n
et
is
sw
ep
t t
hr
ou
gh
v
eg
et
at
io
n
in
a
p
re
de
te
rm
in
ed
m
an
ne
r
F
ol
ia
ge
-d
w
el
lin
g
ar
th
ro
po
ds
S
im
pl
e,
fa
st
, a
nd
e
as
y
to
p
er
fo
rm
; r
eq
ui
re
s
m
in
im
al
e
qu
ip
m
Section 132
en
t;
sa
m
pl
es
s
ui
ta
bl
e
fo
r
re
si
du
e
an
al
ys
is
S
am
pl
e
ef
fic
ac
y
hi
gh
ly
d
ep
en
de
nt
up
on
v
eg
et
at
io
n
st
ru
ct
ur
e
an
d
sa
m
pl
in
g
pe
rs
on
ne
l;
bi
as
ed
a
ga
in
st
ar
th
ro
po
ds
th
at
a
dh
er
e
tig
ht
ly
to
ve
ge
ta
tio
n;
q
ua
nt
ifi
ca
tio
n
of
a
re
a
sa
m
pl
ed
d
iff
ic
ul
t
M2-71
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
6
.1
(
C
o
n
ti
n
u
ed
)
C
om
pa
ris
on
o
f C
om
m
on
A
rt
hr
op
od
S
am
pl
in
g
T
ec
hn
iq
ue
s(a
)
M
et
h
o
d
M
et
h
o
d
D
es
cr
ip
ti
o
n
A
rt
h
ro
p
o
d
s
S
am
p
le
d
A
d
va
n
ta
g
es
D
is
ad
va
n
ta
g
es
P
itf
al
l T
ra
p
C
up
o
r
bu
ck
et
(
co
ve
re
d
or
un
co
ve
re
d)
b
ur
ie
d
in
gr
ou
nd
u
p
to
r
im
; m
ay
o
r
m
ay
n
ot
c
on
ta
in
k
ill
in
g
ag
en
t/p
re
se
rv
at
iv
e;
m
ay
be
e
m
pl
oy
ed
w
ith
d
rif
t
fe
nc
es
G
ro
un
d/
lit
te
r
ar
th
ro
po
ds
S
im
pl
e
an
d
in
ex
pe
ns
iv
e;
m
ay
es
tim
at
e
po
pu
la
tio
n
de
ns
ity
u
si
ng
m
ar
k-
re
ca
pt
ur
e;
s
am
pl
es
su
ita
bl
e
fo
r
re
si
du
e
an
al
ys
is
(
de
pe
nd
s
on
us
e
of
p
re
se
rv
at
iv
e)
B
ia
se
d
ag
ai
ns
t i
na
ct
iv
e
ar
th
ro
po
ds
;
ve
ry
a
ct
iv
e
in
di
vi
du
al
s
m
ay
e
sc
ap
e;
ca
pt
ur
es
a
ffe
ct
ed
b
y
de
ns
ity
a
nd
ty
pe
of
g
ro
un
d
co
ve
r
Li
gh
t T
ra
p
Li
gh
t s
ou
rc
e
(g
en
er
al
ly
ul
tr
av
io
le
t)
a
tta
ch
ed
to
va
ne
s
an
d
a
co
lle
ct
in
g
bu
ck
et
; m
ay
o
r
m
ay
n
ot
em
pl
oy
k
ill
in
g
ag
en
t/
pr
es
er
va
tiv
e
N
oc
tu
rn
al
,
ph
ot
ot
ac
tic
,
pr
ed
om
in
an
tly
fly
in
g
ar
th
ro
po
ds
P
or
ta
bl
e;
s
im
pl
e
to
us
e;
c
ol
le
ct
s
m
an
y
ta
xa
, b
ut
L
ep
id
op
te
ra
pr
ed
om
in
at
e;
s
am
pl
es
su
ita
bl
e
fo
r
re
si
du
e
an
al
ys
is
(
de
pe
nd
s
on
us
e
of
p
re
se
rv
at
iv
e)
C
at
ch
a
ffe
ct
ed
b
y
en
vi
ro
nm
en
ta
l
co
nd
iti
on
s
an
d
tr
ap
p
la
ce
m
en
t;
sp
ec
ie
s-
sp
ec
ifi
c
re
sp
on
se
s
to
li
gh
t
un
kn
ow
n;
a
re
a
sa
m
pl
ed
c
an
no
t b
e
qu
an
tif
ie
d
P
es
tic
id
e
K
no
ck
do
w
n
P
yr
et
hr
oi
d
in
se
ct
ic
id
e
ap
pl
ie
d
to
v
eg
et
at
io
n
by
a
fo
gg
er
; a
rt
hr
op
od
s
ki
lle
d
ar
e
co
lle
ct
ed
o
n
dr
op
sh
ee
ts
.
F
ol
ia
ge
-d
w
el
lin
g
ar
th
ro
po
ds
S
im
pl
e,
fa
st
, a
nd
e
as
y
to
p
er
fo
rm
; s
am
pl
es
m
an
y
ar
th
ro
po
ds
w
ith
ap
pr
ox
im
at
el
y
eq
ua
l
pr
ob
ab
ili
ty
F
og
ge
rs
, p
es
tic
id
es
e
xp
en
si
ve
;
af
fe
ct
ed
b
y
w
in
d;
m
ay
m
is
s
ex
tr
em
el
y
ac
tiv
e
or
s
es
si
le
a
rt
hr
op
od
s;
p
es
tic
id
e
m
ay
in
te
rf
er
e
w
ith
r
es
id
ue
a
na
ly
si
s;
qu
an
tif
ic
at
io
n
of
a
re
a
sa
m
pl
ed
d
iff
ic
ul
t
E
m
er
ge
nc
e
T
ra
p
C
on
ic
al
o
r
bo
x
sh
ap
ed
tr
ap
s
er
ec
te
d
ov
er
w
at
er
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M2-72
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
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6
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(
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M2-73
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INTENTIONALLY BLANK
M2-74
DOE-STD-1153-2002
7 Guidance on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles
This section discusses how radiation doses due to alpha particles should be calculated in
demonstrating compliance with the dose limits for aquatic and terrestrial biota to take into
account the relative biological effectiveness of this radiation type. Guidance is presented on an
assumed radiation weighting factor for alpha particles that should be used by DOE sites. In
addition, information that could lead to a revision of the guidance is summarized.
7.1 Statement of Issue
Section 134
The limits on radiation dose to aquatic and terrestrial biota adopted in this technical standard
are expressed in terms of absorbed dose. These dose limits are based on studies of radiation
effects in biota resulting from exposure to photons having a low linear energy transfer (LET);
e.g., see NCRP (1991) and IAEA (1992). For exposures of biota to alpha particles, which are
high-LET radiations, consideration must be given to whether a calculated absorbed dose should
be increased by a factor representing the relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of this type of
radiation.(1) Use of a radiation weighting factor for alpha particles would be based on the
observation that, for the same absorbed dose, biological damage in tissue generally increases
with increasing LET, and it would take into account that the purpose of the limits on absorbed
dose is to limit the occurrence of deleterious biological effects in aquatic and terrestrial biota.
A radiation weighting factor for alpha particles is of concern only in estimating dose to biota
resulting from internal exposure to alpha-emitting radionuclides. Alpha particles are assumed
not to contribute to the absorbed dose from external exposure, due to their very short range in
matter.
7.2 Previous Assumptions About Radiation Weighting Factor
In radiation protection of humans, an average quality factor (Q̄ ) is used to represent observed
RBEs for a given radiation type; RBEs generally depend on LET and the particular biological
effect of concern.(2) For alpha particles of any energy, the usual assumption is Q̄ = 20 (ICRP
1991). This value is intended to represent RBEs for different stochastic biological effects of
concern in humans (NCRP 1990).
Based on the assumption of Q̄ = 20 for alpha particles used in radiation protection of humans,
the IAEA has included a radiation weighting factor of 20 for alpha particles in calculating a
1 The RBE of any radiation is defined as the ratio of the absorbed dose of a reference radiation (normally gamma
rays or X rays) required to produce a level of biological response to the absorbed dose of the radiation of concern
required to produce the same level of biological response, all other conditions being kept constant.
2 The average quality factor now is called the radiation weighting factor (wR) by the International Commission on
Radiological Protection (ICRP 1991).
M2-75
DOE-STD-1153-2002
weighted absorbed dose to aquatic and terrestrial biota (IAEA 1992). This value also has been
used by other investigators (Blaylock et al., 1993; Jones 2000).
Other investigators have not used a radiation weighting factor for alpha particles in calculating
absorbed dose to biota. This choice has been justified in one of two ways. Some investigators
argued that a radiation weighting factor of 20, based on the value Q̄ = 20 used in radiation
protection of humans, may not be appropriate for biota (Baker and Soldat 1992; Amiro 1997),
because the radiation effects of concern are not the same in the two cases. The NCRP argued
that the use of conservative models to estimate concentrations of alpha-emitting radionuclides
in the tissues of aquatic biota compensates for the neglect of a radiation weighting factor for
alpha particles (NCRP 1991).
7.3 Radiation Effects of Concern in Biota
Section 135
Radiation protection of biota usually is concerned with ensuring adequate protection of whole
species, rather than individual members of species. For exposures of aquatic and terrestrial
biota, the critical biological endpoint appears to be impairment of reproductive capability (NCRP
1991; IAEA 1992). Other biological endpoints affecting the viability of species (e.g., substantial
morbidity) occur only at doses higher than those that significantly affect reproductive capability.
Furthermore, the critical biological endpoint of concern in radiation exposures of biota appears
to be deterministic in nature,(3) rather than stochastic.(4) That is, effects of radiation exposures
on populations of species are not observed below doses and dose rates that are much higher
than natural background, and the effects occur soon after exposure. The dose limits for biota
are intended to prevent the critical deterministic biological effect in sensitive species.
7.4 Data on Deterministic RBEs for High-LET Radiations
Since deterministic effects appear to be the most important in radiation protection of biota,
stochastic RBEs for alpha particles that provide the basis for the average quality factor of 20
used in radiation protection of humans may not be relevant. Data on RBEs for deterministic
radiation effects have been reviewed and evaluated by the ICRP (1989). The RBEs at low
doses and dose rates for different types of high-LET radiation estimated by the ICRP may be
summarized as follows.
• The RBE for deterministic effects induced by 1-5 MeV neutrons varies from 4 to 12, and
the average value based on the results of 19 determinations is about 7.
3 Deterministic effects are those for which the severity is a function of dose, and for which a threshold usually
exists.
4 Stochastic effects are those for which the probability of occurrence is a function of dose, without threshold, but
the severity of the effect is independent of dose.
M2-76
DOE-STD-1153-2002
• The RBE for deterministic effects induced by 5-50 MeV neutrons varies from 1 to 10, and
the average value based on the results of 31 determinations is about 5.
• The RBE for deterministic effects induced by heavy ions (C, Ne, and Ar) varies from 1 to 8,
and the average value based on the results of 19 determinations is about 4.
• The data on deterministic effects induced by alpha particles are much less extensive than
the data for the other high-LET radiations, but two separate determinations yielded
estimated RBEs of about 7 and 10.
The average RBE for deterministic effects, based on all determinations, is about 5.
The information summarized above leads to the conclusion that, for high-LET radiations, the
radiation weighting factor for deterministic effects is substantially less than the corresponding
average quality factor used in radiation protection of humans. Based on this information, the
radiation weighting factor for deterministic effects induced by alpha particles appears to lie in
the range of about 5-10.
7.5 Recommendations on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles
Use of a radiation weighting factor of 5 for alpha particles in calculating a weighted absorbed
dose in biota has been suggested by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of
Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR 1996). The basis for this value was not discussed, except it
assumes that deterministic effects are the most important in exposures of biota. The
suggested radiation weighting factor for alpha particles presumably was based on the
evaluation of RBEs for deterministic effects by the ICRP (1989), as summarized in the previous
section.
Section 136
In radiation protection of humans, the ICRP has continued to use a radiation weighting factor of
20 for alpha particles in predicting deterministic effects, even though the ICRP also
acknowledges, based on its review of RBEs for deterministic effects, that this approach likely
results in overestimates of the contribution to the deterministic risk from alpha particles (ICRP
1991). The ICRP’s conservative approach to assessing deterministic effects for high-LET
radiations is of no consequence in radiation protection of humans, because allowable
exposures of workers and members of the public generally are controlled by limits on effective
dose that are intended to limit the risk of stochastic effects, rather than deterministic limits on
equivalent dose in any organ or tissue (ICRP 1991). The ICRP has not considered the question
of an appropriate radiation weighting factor for high-LET radiations in radiation protection of
biota.
M2-77
DOE-STD-1153-2002
7.6 Guidance on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles
The guidance of DOE’s Office of Environmental Policy and Guidance, Air, Water, and Radiation
Division (EH-412) on a radiation weighting factor for alpha particles to be used in dose
assessments for biota is the following:
All DOE sites shall use a radiation weighting factor of 20 for alpha particles in
calculating a weighted absorbed dose to aquatic and terrestrial biota for the purpose of
demonstrating protection with the applicable dose limits applied in this technical
standard.
The dose assessment methodology described in this technical standard uses this radiation
weighting factor in calculating dose from internal exposure to alpha-emitting radionuclides.
The guidance on a radiation weighing factor for alpha particles is based mainly on two
considerations. First, based on the review of deterministic RBEs for high-LET radiations by the
ICRP (1989), a radiation weighting factor of 20 for alpha particles is likely to be conservative,
and a conservative assumption is considered appropriate for use in a screening methodology
for evaluating compliance with the limits on absorbed dose to aquatic and terrestrial biota.
Second, although there is considerable evidence that the radiation weighting factor for alpha
particles that could be used in radiation protection of biota is less than the value of 20 used in
radiation protection of humans, authoritative organizations, such as the ICRP and NCRP, and
regulatory authorities, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, have not developed a
recommendation on the most appropriate value based on a careful review of available
information. Absent such a recommendation, it is prudent to assume the radiation weighting
factor for alpha particles used in radiation protection of humans.
The guidance on a radiation weighting factor for alpha particles to be used in radiation
protection of aquatic and terrestrial biota at DOE sites is subject to change as authoritative
organizations and regulatory authorities develop a consensus on an appropriate value for
deterministic radiation effects.
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8 Guidance on the Applicability of the Graded Approach for
Evaluating Dose to Individual Organisms
8.1 Considerations on the Meaning of "Individual" Organism
Section 137
At the outset, the concept of an “individual” needs to be understood. A system for protection of
an “individual,” such as the system for radiation protection of humans, is never intended to
apply to each and every specific, identifiable individual (e.g., a named member of the public).
Rather, the concept of an “individual” refers to a reference organism that is intended to
represent typical characteristics within a particular population group. The main reason for use
of the concept of a reference individual is that the characteristics of specific, identifiable
individuals (e.g., individual radiosensitivities, the behavior of radionuclides in the body of an
individual) can never be known. In radiation protection of humans, for example, compliance
with the dose limits for individual workers or members of the public is demonstrated by
calculating doses to a hypothetical construct called Reference Man. The hope is that by limiting
dose (and risk) to a reference individual, no real individual will experience unacceptable doses
(and risks), but it cannot be ensured that unacceptable outcomes will never happen to any real
individual.
8.2 Applicability of Methods and Models Contained in the DOE Graded Approach
to Evaluations of Individual Organisms
The graded approach for evaluating radiation doses to aquatic and terrestrial biota developed
by DOE, taken as a whole, can be viewed as consisting of two components:
• A set of models for calculating dose to biota per unit concentration of radionuclides in
environmental media (water, sediment, and soil); and
• A set of dose criteria or limits for aquatic animals, terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals,
which represent dose levels of concern based on current information on dose-response
relationships in a variety of organisms.
By combining calculated doses per unit concentration of radionuclides in environmental media
with the dose criteria, BCGs are obtained. The BCGs then are compared with measured
concentrations to assess compliance with the dose limits. The models for calculating dose per
unit concentration of radionuclides in environmental media clearly apply to individual organisms.
Thus, these models are directly applicable to individual organisms (e.g., for application to
individual members of threatened and endangered species). However, the question of whether
the dose criteria can be applied to protection of individual members of a species, in contrast to
protection of populations of species, requires further consideration.
M2-79
DOE-STD-1153-2002
8.3 Applicability of Biota Dose Limits to Protection of Individual Organisms
The dose criteria used by DOE are based on studies of dose-response relationships in
populations of aquatic animals, terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals. The particular
biological endpoints for which dose-response relationships have been obtained include early
mortality and impairment of reproductive capability, the latter including effects on reproductive
tissues and the embryo/fetus or seeds. Since reproductive effects in a population generally
occur at lower doses than early mortality, the dose-response relationships for reproductive
effects were used to derive the dose criteria. Thus, at first sight, it would appear that the dose
criteria should be applied only when protection of populations of organisms is of concern, but
they may not be appropriate when protection of individual members of a species is of concern.
Section 138
However, the following points about the dose criteria should be noted. First, even if protection
of populations is the primary concern, effects on populations of organisms can be inferred only
by considering effects in individual organisms comprising a given population. That is, in
determining effects on populations, one would essentially need to count the number of impaired
organisms in an irradiated population compared with the number of similarly impaired
organisms in an unexposed population. Second, the dose criteria are based on the lowest dose
at which any reproductive effects are observed in any species of aquatic animals, terrestrial
plants, or terrestrial animals. Thus, if it is assumed that the species studied include those which
are among the more radiosensitive, the dose criteria intended to ensure that there would be no
significant effects at a population level should ensure that there would be no observable effects
on individual members of a species, bearing in mind that there is always a background of
similar effects from all causes, which limits the ability to observe radiation-induced effects.
8.4 Use of the DOE Graded Approach for Evaluating Dose to Individual
Organisms: Application Considerations
In examining the models and methods contained in the graded approach, and the basis for the
biota dose limits, one key difference between applying them to protection of individuals or
protection of populations is in regard to the extent to which calculated doses could be averaged
over the spatial extent of contamination and over time. In protecting populations, considerable
averaging over space and time could be allowed and still ensure adequate protection. In
protecting individuals, however, it could be more appropriate to allow little or no averaging over
space and time. Thus, in protecting individuals, use of the maximum concentrations of
radionuclides in the environment at any location and at any time could be more appropriate.
Use of safety factors, appropriate default parameter values, maximum radionuclide
concentrations in environmental media, and 100 percent organism residence time and
exposure may support the application of the graded approach for evaluating doses to
individuals.
M2-80
DOE-STD-1153-2002
8.5 Consideration of Deterministic vs. Stochastic Effects
There is one additional caution that should be heeded in applying the dose limits to individual
organisms, such as those for a threatened and endangered species. The dose criteria were
derived from observed dose-response relationships for effects that generally are assumed to be
deterministic in character, meaning that there should be no effects at doses below some
threshold. However, there also is a possibility that stochastic radiation effects could be
important in exposures of biota.
Information on stochastic effects in biota was considered in the 1996 UNSCEAR report on
Effects of Radiation on the Environment. The effects studied were at the cellular level, and
include scorable cytogenetic effects (effects on DNA). The UNSCEAR report concluded that as
long as the dose was kept below the dose criteria derived from dose-response relationships for
reproductive effects, stochastic effects should not be significant at a population level.
Section 139
However, the discussion in the UNSCEAR report leaves open the question of whether
stochastic effects could cause harm in an individual organism (e.g., induction of a tumor that
would result in premature death of an individual compared with the normal life span). There are
two difficulties with interpreting the available data. First, the data on scorable cytogenetic
effects appear to be considerably limited compared with the data on early mortality and
reproductive effects. Second, although the available data in mammals and arthropods appear
to indicate that scorable cytogenetic effects can be observed at dose rates roughly 100 times
lower than the lowest dose rates causing early mortality and roughly 10 times lower than the
lowest dose rates causing reproductive effects, it is difficult to interpret the significance of these
effects in regard to harm to an individual organism (e.g., induction of tumors). For example,
effects on DNA in humans who live in areas of unusually high natural background are easily
observed, but increased incidence of cancers has not been observed in these populations.
Therefore, it is difficult to know how to apply the available information on scorable cytogenetic
effects in a system for protection of individuals or populations. The best that can be said is that
observations of these effects provide one more piece of information that could be used in
evaluating the consequences of radiation exposures of biota and in deciding how to respond to
those consequences.
M2-81
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INTENTIONALLY BLANK
M2-82
DOE-STD-1153-2002
A Graded Approach for
Evaluating Radiation Doses to
Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota
MODULE 3
METHODS DERIVATION
M
O
D
U
L
E
3
:
M
E
T
H
O
D
S
D
E
R
IV
A
T
IO
N
DOE-STD-1153-2002
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
DOE-STD-1153-2002
1 Introduction and Basis for the Approach
The Department of Energy (DOE) currently has in place a radiation dose limit of 1 rad/d (10
mGy/d) for the protection of aquatic organisms (DOE Order 5400.5), and has proposed dose
limits for both aquatic and terrestrial organisms. These limits are: 1 rad/d (10 mGy/d) for
aquatic animals; 1 rad/d (10 mGy/d) for terrestrial plants; and 0.1 rad/d (1 mGy/d) for terrestrial
animals. Because the biota protection limits are dose-based, a calculational method is needed
to demonstrate compliance. In theory, derived radionuclide concentration limits for
environmental media (e.g., Biota Concentration Guides, BCGs, for water, sediment, or soil)
provide a relatively straightforward and simple means to do so. However, because of the
inherent complexity of environmental systems, and the vast array of biota that can potentially be
exposed to any radionuclide contamination level, it was decided that a graded approach to
evaluating compliance would be the most appropriate.
The first step in evaluating compliance would be to compare measured environmental
concentrations with very conservative (i.e., very restrictive or protective) BCGs in a general
screening process. To be useful in general screening, the concentration limits (BCGs) must be
set so that real biota exposed to such concentrations are not expected to ever exceed the biota
Dose Rate Guidelines. Since the screening limits would be chosen to protect “all biota,
everywhere” they would, by their nature be restrictive, and in many circumstances conservative
with regards to specific environments. Consequently, the graded approach for evaluating
compliance had to allow site users to examine and revise, if appropriate, the screening limits to
more realistically reflect the conditions at their site. This approach parallels methods currently
used to protect human health from residual levels of radionuclides in the environment (e.g.,
site-specific conditions can be considered in deriving residual radionuclide concentration
levels).
Section 140
This Module provides detailed descriptions of the dose models, equations, and default
parameters used in the graded approach for evaluating doses to biota. Topics presented
include: (1) selection of pathways, media, organism types, and target radionuclides; (2)
derivation and selection of lumped parameters; (3) derivation of internal and external dose
conversion factors; (4) equations and models for calculating dose to biota and deriving BCGs;
and (5) default parameters and their sources.
1.1 Pathways, Media Types, and Organism Types Addressed
The Biota Dose Assessment Committee (BDAC) had to consider several factors in developing
the general screening methodology. The method had to be simple, defensible, and user-
friendly. It also had to have broad applicability - from aquatic animals through terrestrial
species. It also had to address radiation dose in small organisms (e.g., mice) and large
carnivores (e.g., cougars). The method had to provide a logical and consistent departure point
should additional in-depth evaluation of dose be required. Should additional analysis be
required, the method had to utilize existing data - either from the technical literature or from
M3-1
DOE-STD-1153-2002
site-specific monitoring - whenever possible. Lastly, the method had to be useful in evaluating
the potential impacts of combined media: water, sediment, and soil.
The BDAC’s choice of organisms for the methodology evolved from consideration of the
existing and proposed radiation dose limits for biota. Biota dose limits had been set for aquatic
animals, and were being considered for terrestrial plants and animals. Accordingly, the
screening methodology had to accommodate these three general categories. A fourth, riparian
animal, was added after recognizing that the riparian pathways of exposure combined aspects
of both the terrestrial and aquatic systems.
The pathways of exposure evaluated for each of the four organism types were developed
based on consideration of the likelihood of dose occurring through a specific route, or
“pathway.” Based on the potential pathways of exposure, BCGs were derived for surface
water, sediment, and soil. Calculated using conservative assumptions, the BCGs are intended
to preclude the relevant biota from being exposed to radiation levels in excess of the relevant
existing or recommended biota dose limits.
1.2 Selection of Target Radionuclides
Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) that are considered to be conservatively protective of non
human biota were derived for twenty-three radionuclides. These BCGs are provided for
radionuclide concentrations in water, sediment, and soil. They have been calculated based on
limiting the potential radiological dose rate to the most sensitive receptors: aquatic, terrestrial,
and riparian animals, and terrestrial plants. These radionuclides (see Module 1, Tables 6.1-6.4)
were selected because they are relatively common constituents in past radionuclide releases to
the environment from DOE facilities. This list is not meant to imply particular concern for biotic
impact from these twenty-three specific radionuclides. Rather, it is a starting point for
application of the methodology. The list was developed in consultation with BDAC members,
and health physics and radioecological staff at several Federal facilities. It represents a general
consensus as to the most prevalent radionuclides in environmental releases.
1.3 Overview of the Technical Approach for Deriving the BCGs
Section 141
The derivation of BCGs used to demonstrate compliance with the biota dose limits is based on
the fact that biota dose is a function of the contaminant concentration in the environment, and is
the sum of internal and external contributions. It is possible, given a unit concentration
(i.e., 1 Bq kg-1) of a contaminant in a single media (e.g., soil) to estimate the potential dose rate
to a receptor from both internal and external exposures (admittedly, several assumptions must
be made to do so, and these are described in the following sections). Once the dose rate has
been calculated, it can be ratioed to the dose rate limit, and used to back-calculate a
concentration of the contaminant in the media that could generate a dose rate at the specified
biota dose limit. If multiple contaminated media are present then the dose evaluation can be
performed for each, and the results individually ratioed to the standard. This “sum of fractions”
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approach is commonly used in evaluating compliance for humans exposed to radionuclides
discharged to air, soil and water.
Once the target radionuclides had been selected, external dose coefficients (also called dose
conversion factors, DCFs) were developed which relate environmental concentrations of the
contaminants in water, sediment and soil to projected organism dose rate. Internal dose
coefficients (DCFs) were also developed to estimate dose rate from internally deposited
radionuclides.
General Dose Equation and Approach Used to Derive BCGs
Dose Rate Limit Limiting Concentration '
(Internal Dose Rate)%(External Dose Ratesoil/sed.)%(External Dose Rate )water
The limiting concentration in an environmental medium was calculated by first setting a target total
dose (e.g., 1 rad/d for aquatic organisms and terrestrial plants, or 0.1 rad/d for riparian and
terrestrial animals) and then back-calculating to the medium concentration (i.e., the BCG) necessary
to produce the applicable dose from radionuclides in the organism (internal dose), plus the external
dose components from radionuclides in the environment (external dose). The denominator of the
generic equation may be broken down into the base components of internal and external dose.
Internal doses originate from radionuclides inside the organism’s body. The internal dose is
calculated as the product of the internal radionuclide concentration and the internal dose conversion
factor. External doses originate from radionuclides external to the organism and are calculated as
the product of the radionuclide concentration in the environmental medium in which the organism
resides and an appropriate dose conversion factor.
1.4 Selection of the Most Limiting BCGs for Use in General Screening
As discussed, BCGs were derived for a matrix of radionuclides and media types for each of four
organism types. That is, BCGs were derived for twenty-three radionuclides within water,
sediment, and soil media for aquatic animal, riparian animal, terrestrial plant, and terrestrial
animal organism types. The resulting BCGs from this matrix of radionuclides, media types, and
organism types were then reviewed to determine the most limiting (i.e., most conservative or
protective) values that could be summarized in two tables for the general screening phase of
the graded approach: one for aquatic systems and one for terrestrial systems. The logic flow
for selecting the BCG values for use in the general screening phase of the graded approach is
illustrated in Figure 1.1.
Section 142
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Figure 1.1 Selection of Biota Concentration Guides (BCGs) for Use in Aquatic and Terrestrial
System Evaluations.
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2 Dose Coefficients
2.1 External Dose Coefficients
This section describes a simple approach to calculating external dose coefficients for aquatic
and terrestrial biota that can be used for purposes of screening in demonstrating compliance
with specified limits on absorbed dose rates to biota, and it presents tables of screening-level
external dose coefficients for exposure of aquatic and terrestrial biota to selected radionuclides
in the environmental media of concern.
2.1.1 Introduction
External dose coefficients (also called external dose rate conversion factors or external dose
conversion factors) give dose rates from external exposure per unit concentration of
radionuclides in environmental media. For external exposure to radionuclides in the
environment, only penetrating radiations (photons and electrons) are of concern, and non-
penetrating radiations (e.g., alpha particles) need not be considered. The environmental
(source) media of concern are contaminated water and sediments for exposure of aquatic
animals and contaminated soil and water for exposure of terrestrial biota. Contaminated air
(i.e., the active air pathway) is not an important source medium for terrestrial biota, because the
limits on allowable concentrations of radionuclides in air based on requirements for protection of
on-site workers and members of the public would result in absorbed dose rates to terrestrial
biota that are far less than specified limits (see Module 2, Section 2.2).
The essence of screening-level external dose coefficients for aquatic and terrestrial biota is that
they clearly must provide conservative overestimates of absorbed dose rates from external
exposure to given concentrations of radionuclides in the environment. Screening-level dose
coefficients thus provide a means of demonstrating compliance with specified limits on
absorbed dose rate for aquatic and terrestrial biota that can be used at any DOE site, without
the need for a detailed exposure pathway analysis based on site-specific considerations of the
important species at risk and the important exposure pathways.
2.1.2 Approach to Calculating External Dose Coefficients
The approach to calculating external dose coefficients for aquatic and terrestrial biota for use in
general screening should be simple and transparent, so that it can be easily implemented and
understood. Furthermore, as indicated above, the approach must clearly result in conservative
estimates of external dose rates to aquatic and terrestrial biota for given concentrations of
radionuclides in the environment. The approach to calculating screening-level external dose
coefficients for aquatic and terrestrial biota is based on the following assumptions:
• First, the source medium (water, sediment, or soil) is assumed to be infinite in extent
and to contain uniform concentrations of radionuclides. This assumption results in
reasonably realistic estimates of dose rates for radionuclides which are dispersed in the
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source medium, because the range of electrons emitted in radioactive decay is no more
than a few cm and the mean-free-path of emitted photons is no more than a few tens
of centimeters (Shleien et al. 1998).
Section 143
• Second, the exposed organism is assumed to be very small (less than the mean free
path of the electron emitted in decay). This assumption results in overestimates of
external dose rates for any finite-sized organism, because the attenuation of photons
and electrons in transport through an organism is ignored. In addition, the assumption
of a very small organism combined with the assumption of an infinitely large and
uniformly contaminated source medium leads to a particularly simple approach to
calculating screening-level external dose coefficients developed in the following section.
Specifically, because all of the energy emitted by radionuclides in a uniformly
contaminated and infinite source medium is absorbed uniformly throughout the medium,
the dose rate in the organism is essentially the same as the dose rate in the medium
itself, and the absorbed dose rate can be calculated directly from the energy of photons
and electrons emitted per disintegration of the radionuclides in the medium.
• Third, because the organism is assumed to be very small, the energies of all photons
and electrons emitted by radionuclides are taken into account in calculating the
screening-level external dose coefficients. This approach is particularly conservative for
electrons when the irradiated tissues of concern lie below the body surface of an
organism and lower-energy electrons could not penetrate to the location of these
tissues. Taking into account the energies of all photons and electrons in radioactive
decay is tantamount to assuming that the radiosensitive tissues of concern (i.e., the
reproductive tissues) lie on the surface of a very small organism.
Based on the foregoing discussions, the approach to calculating screening-level external dose
coefficients is simple, because the dose coefficients are calculated based only on the known
energies and intensities of photons and electrons emitted in the decay of radionuclides, and it is
evidently conservative in providing overestimates of external dose rates to the reproductive
tissues of finite-sized organisms. The calculations of screening-level external dose coefficients
for aquatic and terrestrial biota based on this approach are described in the following sections.
2.1.2.1 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Aquatic Animals
Screening-level external dose coefficients for exposure of aquatic animals to radionuclides in
sediments and water are calculated based on the assumptions described in the previous
section and the additional conservative assumption that the organism is located 100 percent of
the time at the water-sediment interface. Thus, it is assumed that the organism was exposed at
the boundary of two semi-infinite and uniformly contaminated media. The assumption of
exposure at the boundary of a semi-infinite medium results in an absorbed dose rate in the
organism that is one-half of the dose rate in an infinite source volume. The calculation of the
screening-level external dose coefficients for aquatic animals then proceeds as follows.
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The total energies of all photons and electrons emitted in the decay of radionuclides are
assumed to be given in units of MeV per disintegration. For exposure to contaminated
sediments, the desired units for the external dose coefficients are rad/d per pCi/g. The emitted
energy in MeV per disintegration (i.e., per Bq-s) is expressed in terms of the desired units for
the external dose coefficients by multiplication of the known factors relating energy in MeV to
ergs, absorbed energy in ergs/g to rads, time in seconds to days, and activity in Bq to pCi:
Section 144
1 MeV
Bq&s
1.6E&06 ergs
MeV
0.01 g&rad
erg
8.64E%04 s
d
0.037 Bq
pCi
' 5.12E&05 rad/d
pCi/g
If SI units are used for absorbed dose (Gy), activity (Bq), and mass (kg), and the unit of time is
taken to be the year, the factor for converting emitted energy to the external dose coefficient is
obtained by a similar calculation as:
MeV Gy/y 1 ' 5.04E&06
Bq&s Bq/kg
As noted above, the external dose coefficient at the sediment-water interface is one-half of the
value for exposure in an infinite medium. Therefore, given the total energies (E) of photons and
electrons in MeV per disintegration of a radionuclide, the external dose coefficient (dext) for
exposure to contaminated sediments is given by:
rad/d MeV (d ' ext)sediments (2.56E&05)Ephotons%electrons pCi/g dis
If the desired units for the external dose coefficients are Gy/y per Bq/kg, the factor by which the
decay energy is multiplied is 2.52E-06.
For exposure to contaminated water, the desired units for the external dose coefficients are
rad/d per pCi/L. If the density of water is assumed to be 1 g/cm3, the external dose coefficient
for exposure to contaminated water at the sediment-water interface is obtained from a
calculation similar to that for contaminated sediments given above as:
rad/d MeV (d ) ' ext water (2.56E&08)Ephotons%electrons pCi/L dis
Similarly, if the desired units for the external dose coefficients are Gy/y per Bq/m3, the factor by
which the decay energy is multiplied is 2.52E-09.
The screening-level external dose coefficients for exposure of aquatic animals to selected
radionuclides in contaminated sediments calculated as described above are given in Table 2.1,
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and the values for exposure to contaminated water are given in Table 2.2. The energies of all
photons and electrons per disintegration of the radionuclides are obtained from the compilation
by Kocher (1980), which summarizes the data contained in a handbook of decay data tables
(Kocher 1981). For most radionuclides, the decay data compiled by Kocher are in good
agreement with the data compiled by the ICRP (1983).
2.1.2.2 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Terrestrial Biota
Screening-level external dose coefficients for exposure of terrestrial biota to radionuclides in
soil are calculated based on the assumption that the organism is immersed 100% of the time in
an infinite and uniformly contaminated source region. This assumption takes into account that
some terrestrial animals reside well below ground for a substantial fraction of the time, and it is
appropriately conservative for purposes of screening.
For exposure to contaminated soil, the desired units for the external dose coefficients are rad/d
per pCi/g. Therefore, based on the calculations for contaminated sediments discussed in the
previous section, the external dose coefficient for exposure to contaminated soil is given by:
rad/d MeV (d ' ext)soil (5.12E&05)Ephotons%electrons pCi/g dis
If the desired units for the external dose coefficients are Gy/y per Bq/kg, the factor by which the
decay energy is multiplied is 5.05E-06.
The screening-level external dose coefficients for exposure of terrestrial biota to selected
radionuclides in contaminated soil calculated as described above are given in Table 2.3. The
values for contaminated soil are twice the values for contaminated sediments in Table 2.1.
2.1.3 Discussion of Results
Section 145
Several points about the screening-level external dose coefficients in Tables 2.1-2.3 should be
noted. The first point concerns the treatment of radioactive decay chains in obtaining the
results.
Several radionuclides - including Sr-90, Zr-95, Sb-125, Cs-137, Ce-144, Pb-210, Ra-226, Ra
228, Ac-227, Th-228, Th-229, U-235, U-238, Np-237, and Am-243 - have radioactive decay
products that are sufficiently short-lived that the decay products are assumed to be in secular
equilibrium with the parent radionuclide in each environmental medium. For these
radionuclides, the external dose coefficients are the sum of the values for the parent and its
indicated short-lived decay products, taking into account the branching fractions in the decay of
the parent.
For several radionuclides, however, the external dose coefficients do not include possible
contributions from decay products that are sufficiently long-lived that they may not be in activity
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equilibrium with the parent radionuclide, even though the contributions from the decay products
may be significant. The radionuclides of concern (with the decay products in parentheses)
include Ra-226 (Pb-210), Ra-228 (Th-228), Th-232 (Ra-228 and Th-228), Pa-231 (Ac-227), and
U-232 (Th-228). If separate data on the concentrations of the shorter-lived decay products in
sediments, water, or soil are not available, the decay products could be assumed to be in
activity equilibrium with the parent, and the dose coefficients for the parent and the decay
products should be added. This approach may or may not be conservative, depending on
differences in the environmental behavior of the parent and its decay products.
The second point concerns the importance of the external dose coefficients for exposure to
contaminated water in Table 2.2. For most radionuclides, the concentration in aquatic animals
relative to the concentration in water should be considerably greater than unity (Kennedy and
Strenge 1992). Therefore, the dose rate from internal exposure calculated for purposes of
screening by assuming that all radiations emitted in the decay of radionuclides in an organism
are absorbed in the organism, usually would be considerably higher than the screening-level
dose rate from external exposure. In addition, for most radionuclides, the solid/solution
distribution coefficient (Kd) in sediments should be considerably greater than unity (Onishi et al.
1981). Therefore, for the assumption of exposure at the sediment-water interface, the
screening-level dose rate from external exposure to contaminated sediments should be higher
in most cases than the corresponding dose rate from external exposure to contaminated water.
Based on these arguments, the screening-level external dose coefficients for exposure of
aquatic animals to contaminated water in Table 2.2 are unlikely to be important for most
radionuclides in determining screening-level concentrations in water. Rather, the screening-
level concentrations of most radionuclides in aquatic environments should be based on
considerations of external exposure to contaminated sediments and internal exposure.
Section 146
The third point concerns a comparison of the screening-level external dose coefficients
obtained in this technical standard with values given by Amiro (1997). The calculations of
Amiro assumed that the organism is located 0.1 m below the surface of a semi-infinite,
uniformly contaminated body of sediment, water, or soil. Compared with the assumptions of
exposure in an infinite medium (soil) or at the boundary of a semi-infinite medium (sediments
and water) used in this technical standard, Amiro’s assumption is less conservative for
exposure to contaminated soil but more conservative for exposure to contaminated sediments
and water. In addition, the external dose coefficients of Amiro were calculated for a human
phantom, rather than a point receptor, and the calculated values for photons apply at the body
surface and the calculated values for electrons apply at a depth of 70 µm in tissue (an aerial
thickness of 0.7 mg/cm2). For high-energy photon emitters, the photon dose rate at the body
surface of a human phantom is slightly higher than the dose rate in the source medium itself,
but the difference is not significant. However, the depth in tissue for calculating the electron
dose rate assumed by Amiro is considerably less conservative than the assumption in this
technical standard of exposure at the surface of a very small organism, because the minimum
electron energy that results in a non-zero dose at a depth of 70 µm is about 70 keV (Kocher
and Eckerman 1981) but all such lower-energy electrons are taken into account in obtaining the
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present results. Finally, in the approach to screening developed by Amiro, the external dose
coefficients cannot be calculated simply on the basis of the energies of photons and electrons
in radioactive decay, and results for radionuclides not considered by Amiro are not readily
obtainable.
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Table 2.1 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Aquatic Animals to
Contaminated Sediments (These values were also used for exposure of riparian
animals to contaminated sediments.)
Radionuclidea Decay Energy (MeV)b
External Dose Coefficient
rad/d per pCi/g Gy/y per Bq/kg
3H 0.0057 1.5E-07 1.4E-08
14C 0.0495 1.3E-06 1.2E-07
32P 0.6949 1.8E-05 1.8E-06
60Co 2.6016 6.7E-05 6.6E-06
59Ni 0.0067 1.7E-07 1.7E-08
63Ni 0.0171 4.4E-07 4.3E-08
65Zn 0.5904 1.5E-05 1.5E-06
90Sr + 90Y 1.1305 2.9E-05 2.8E-06
95Zr + 95Nb 1.6614 4.3E-05 4.2E-06
94Nb 1.7027 4.4E-05 4.3E-06
99Tc 0.0846 2.2E-06 2.1E-07
125Sb + 125mTe 0.5670 1.5E-05 1.4E-06
129I 0.0789 2.0E-06 2.0E-07
131I 0.5715 1.5E-05 1.4E-06
134Cs 1.7171 4.4E-05 4.3E-06
135Cs 0.0563 1.4E-06 1.4E-07
137Cs + 137mBa 0.7966 2.0E-05 2.0E-06
144Ce + 144Pr 1.3517 3.5E-05 3.4E-06
154Eu 1.5269 3.9E-05 3.8E-06
155Eu 0.1224 3.1E-06 3.1E-07
210Pb + 210Bi 0.4279 1.1E-05 1.1E-06
226Ra + DC 2.7023 6.9E-05 6.8E-06
228Ra + 228Acd 1.3677 3.5E-05 3.4E-06
227Ac + De 1.4916 3.8E-05 3.8E-06
228Th + Df 2.4310 6.2E-05 6.1E-06
229Th + Dg 1.2282 3.1E-05 3.1E-06
230Th 0.0143 3.7E-07 3.6E-08
232Thh 0.0121 3.1E-07 3.0E-08
231Pai 0.0727 1.9E-06 1.8E-07
232Uj 0.0162 4.1E-07 4.1E-08
233U 0.0037 9.5E-08 9.3E-09
234U 0.0128 3.3E-07 3.2E-08
235U + 231Th 0.3729 9.5E-06 9.4E-07
238U + Dk 0.9154 2.3E-05 2.3E-06
237Np + 233Pa 0.5049 1.3E-05 1.3E-06
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Table 2.1 (Continued) Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Aquatic
Animals to Contaminated Sediments (These values were also used
for exposure of riparian animals to contaminated sediments.)
Section 147
Radionuclidea Decay Energy (MeV)b
External Dose Coefficient
rad/d per pCi/g Gy/y per Bq/kg
238Pu 0.0099 2.5E-07 2.5E-08
239Pu 0.0056 1.4E-07 1.4E-08
240Pu 0.0098 2.5E-07 2.5E-08
241Pu 0.0052 1.3E-07 1.3E-08
241Am 0.0575 1.5E-06 1.4E-07
243Am + 239Np 0.4990 1.3E-05 1.3E-06
242Cm 0.0092 2.4E-07 2.3E-08
243Cm 0.2547 6.5E-06 6.4E-07
244Cm 0.0079 2.0E-07 2.0E-08
(a) Short-lived decay products assumed to be in activity equilibrium are listed with parent radionuclide, and “D”
denotes multiple decay products listed in separate footnote. Contributions to dose coefficient from decay products
take into account branching fractions in decay of parent radionuclide (Kocher 1981).
(b) Total energy of all photons and electrons emitted per decay of radionuclide from Kocher (1980).
(c) Short-lived decay products include 222Rn, 214Pb, 214Bi, and 214Po. Possible contributions to dose coefficient from
210Pb decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay product is listed separately.
(d) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Th decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for
decay product is listed separately.
(e) Short-lived decay products include 227Th, 223Fr, 223Ra, 219Rn, 215Po, 211Pb, 211Bi, and 207Tl.
(f) Short-lived decay products include 224Ra, 220Rn, 212Pb, 212Bi, and 208Tl.
(g) Short-lived decay products include 225Ra, 225Ac, 221Fr, 217At, 213Bi, 209Tl, and 209Pb.
(h) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Ra and 228Th decay products are not included, but dose
coefficients for decay products are listed separately.
(i) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 227Ac decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay
product is listed separately.
(j) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Th decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay
product is listed separately.
(k) Short-lived decay products include 234Th, 234Pa, and 234Pa.
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Table 2.2 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Aquatic Animals to
Contaminated Water (These values were also used for exposure of riparian
animals to contaminated water.)
Radionuclidea Decay Energy (MeV)b
External Dose Coefficient
rad/d per pCi/L Gy/y per Bq/m3
3H 0.0057 1.5E-10 1.4E-11
14C 0.0495 1.3E-09 1.2E-10
32P 0.6949 1.8E-08 1.8E-09
60Co 2.6016 6.7E-08 6.6E-09
59Ni 0.0067 1.7E-10 1.7E-11
63Ni 0.0171 4.4E-10 4.3E-11
65Zn 0.5904 1.5E-08 1.5E-09
90Sr + 90Y 1.1305 2.9E-08 2.8E-09
95Zr + 95Nb 1.6614 4.3E-08 4.2E-09
94Nb 1.7027 4.4E-08 4.3E-09
99Tc 0.0846 2.2E-09 2.1E-10
125Sb + 125mTe 0.5670 1.5E-08 1.4E-09
129I 0.0789 2.0E-09 2.0E-10
131I 0.5715 1.5E-08 1.4E-09
134Cs 1.7171 4.4E-08 4.3E-09
135Cs 0.0563 1.4E-09 1.4E-10
137Cs + 137mBa 0.7966 2.0E-08 2.0E-09
144Ce + 144Pr 1.3517 3.5E-08 3.4E-09
154Eu 1.5269 3.9E-08 3.8E-09
155Eu 0.1224 3.1E-09 3.1E-10
210Pb + 210Bi 0.4279 1.1E-08 1.1E-09
226Ra + DC 2.7023 6.9E-08 6.8E-09
228Ra + 228Acd 1.3677 3.5E-08 3.4E-09
227Ac + De 1.4916 3.8E-08 3.8E-09
228Th + Df 2.4310 6.2E-08 6.1E-09
229Th + Dg 1.2282 3.1E-08 3.1E-09
230Th 0.0143 3.7E-10 3.6E-11
232Thh 0.0121 3.1E-10 3.0E-11
231Pai 0.0727 1.9E-09 1.8E-10
232Uj 0.0162 4.1E-10 4.1E-11
233U 0.0037 9.5E-11 9.3E-12
234U 0.0128 3.3E-10 3.2E-11
235U + 231Th 0.3729 9.5E-09 9.4E-10
238U + Dk 0.9154 2.3E-08 2.3E-09
237Np + 233Pa 0.5049 1.3E-08 1.3E-09
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Table 2.2 (Continued) Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure to Aquatic
Animals to Contaminated Water (These values were also used for
exposure of riparian animals to contaminated water.)
Section 148
Radionuclidea Decay Energy (MeV)b
External Dose Coefficient
rad/d per pCi/L Gy/y per Bq/m3
238Pu 0.0099 2.5E-10 2.5E-11
239Pu 0.0056 1.4E-10 1.4E-11
240Pu 0.0098 2.5E-10 2.5E-11
241Pu 0.0052 1.3E-10 1.3E-11
241Am 0.0575 1.5E-09 1.4E-10
243Am + 239Np 0.4990 1.3E-08 1.3E-09
242Cm 0.0092 2.4E-10 2.3E-11
243Cm 0.2547 6.5E-09 6.4E-10
244Cm 0.0079 2.0E-10 2.0E-11
(a) Short-lived decay products assumed to be in activity equilibrium are listed with parent radionuclide, and “D”
denotes multiple decay products listed in separate footnote. Contributions to dose coefficient from decay products
take into account branching fractions in decay of parent radionuclide (Kocher 1981).
(b) Total energy of all photons and electrons emitted per decay of radionuclide from Kocher (1980).
(c) Short-lived decay products include 222Rn, 214Pb, 214Bi, and 214Po. Possible contributions to dose coefficient from
210Pb decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay product is listed separately.
(d) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Th decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for
decay product is listed separately.
(e) Short-lived decay products include 227Th, 223Fr, 223Ra, 219Rn, 215Po, 211Pb, 211Bi, and 207Tl.
(f) Short-lived decay products include 224Ra, 220Rn, 212Pb, 212Bi, and 208Tl.
(g) Short-lived decay products include 225Ra, 225Ac, 221Fr, 217At, 213Bi, 209Tl, and 209Pb.
(h) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Ra and 228Th decay products are not included, but dose
coefficients for decay products are listed separately.
(i) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 227Ac decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay
product is listed separately.
(j) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Th decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay
product is listed separately.
(k) Short-lived decay products include 234Th, 234Pa, and 234Pa.
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Table 2.3 Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Terrestrial Biota to
Contaminated Soil
Radionuclidea Decay Energy (MeV)b
External Dose Coefficient
rad/d per pCi/g Gy/y per Bq/kg
3H 0.0057 2.9E-07 2.9E-08
14C 0.0495 2.5E-06 2.5E-07
32P 0.6949 3.6E-05 3.5E-06
60Co 2.6016 1.3E-04 1.3E-05
59Ni 0.0067 3.4E-07 3.4E-08
63Ni 0.0171 8.8E-07 8.6E-08
65Zn 0.5904 3.0E-05 3.0E-06
90Sr + 90Y 1.1305 5.8E-05 5.7E-06
95Zr + 95Nb 1.6614 8.5E-05 8.4E-06
94Nb 1.7027 8.7E-05 8.6E-06
99Tc 0.0846 4.3E-06 4.3E-07
125Sb + 125mTe 0.5670 2.9E-05 2.9E-06
129I 0.0789 4.0E-06 4.0E-07
131I 0.5715 2.9E-05 2.9E-06
134Cs 1.7171 8.8E-05 8.7E-06
135Cs 0.0563 2.9E-06 2.8E-07
137Cs + 137mBa 0.7966 4.1E-05 4.0E-06
144Ce + 144Pr 1.3517 6.9E-05 6.8E-06
154Eu 1.5269 7.8E-05 7.7E-06
155Eu 0.1224 6.3E-06 6.2E-07
210Pb + 210Bi 0.4279 2.2E-05 2.2E-06
226Ra + Dc 2.7023 1.4E-04 1.4E-05
228Ra + 228Acd 1.3677 7.0E-05 6.9E-06
227Ac + De 1.4916 7.6E-05 7.5E-06
228Th + Df 2.4310 1.2E-04 1.2E-05
229Th + Dg 1.2282 6.3E-05 6.2E-06
230Th 0.0143 7.3E-07 7.2E-08
232Thh 0.0121 6.2E-07 6.1E-08
231Pai 0.0727 3.7E-06 3.7E-07
232Uj 0.0162 8.3E-07 8.2E-08
233U 0.0037 1.9E-07 1.9E-08
234U 0.0128 6.6E-07 6.5E-08
235U + 231Th 0.3729 1.9E-05 1.8E-06
238U + Dk 0.9154 4.7E-05 4.6E-06
237Np + 233Pa 0.5049 2.6E-05 2.5E-06
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Table 2.3 (Continued) Screening-Level External Dose Coefficients for Exposure of Terrestrial
Biota to Contaminated Soil
Radionuclidea Decay Energy (MeV)b
External Dose Coefficient
rad/d per pCi/g Gy/y per Bq/kg
Section 149
238Pu 0.0099 5.1E-07 5.0E-08
239Pu 0.0056 2.9E-07 2.8E-08
240Pu 0.0098 5.0E-07 4.9E-08
241Pu 0.0052 2.7E-07 2.6E-08
241Am 0.0575 2.9E-06 2.9E-07
243Am + 239Np 0.4990 2.6E-05 2.5E-06
242Cm 0.0092 4.7E-07 4.6E-08
243Cm 0.2547 1.3E-05 1.3E-06
244Cm 0.0079 4.0E-07 4.0E-08
(a) Short-lived decay products assumed to be in activity equilibrium are listed with parent radionuclide, and “D”
denotes multiple decay products listed in separate footnote. Contributions to dose coefficient from decay products
take into account branching fractions in decay of parent radionuclide (Kocher 1981).
(b) Total energy of all photons and electrons emitted per decay of radionuclide from Kocher (1980).
(c) Short-lived decay products include 222Rn, 214Pb, 214Bi, and 214Po. Possible contributions to dose coefficient from
210Pb decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay product is listed separately.
(d) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Th decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for
decay product is listed separately.
(e) Short-lived decay products include 227Th, 223Fr, 223Ra, 219Rn, 215Po, 211Pb, 211Bi, and 207Tl.
(f) Short-lived decay products include 224Ra, 220Rn, 212Pb, 212Bi, and 208Tl.
(g) Short-lived decay products include 225Ra, 225Ac, 221Fr, 217At, 213Bi, 209Tl, and 209Pb.
(h) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Ra and 228Th decay products are not included, but dose
coefficients for decay products are listed separately.
(i) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 227Ac decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay
product is listed separately.
(j) Possible contributions to dose coefficient from 228Th decay product are not included, but dose coefficient for decay
product is listed separately.
(k) Short-lived decay products include 234Th, 234Pa, and 234Pa.
2.2 Internal Dose Coefficients
This section presents the approach used to calculate internal dose coefficients that can be used
in general screening for internal exposure of aquatic and terrestrial biota to selected
radionuclides. A table of screening-level internal DCFs is provided.
2.2.1 Approach to Calculating Internal Dose Coefficients
Internal dose conversion factors (Gy y-1 per Bq kg-1) were derived for unit concentrations of
each of the target radionuclides in tissue. Reference decay energies and abundances were
taken from ICRP 38 (1983) for each of the target radionuclides and its progeny The default
dose factor includes buildup of progeny with half-lives less than 100 y. The calculations assume
all of the energies of radioactive decay were retained in the tissue of the organism (i.e., the
organism was presumed to be very large in size). The radionuclides were presumed to be
homogeneously distributed in the tissue. The default internal dose factors include a dose
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modifying factor of 20
(i.e., Q or wR = 20) for
alpha particles and the
alpha-emitting progeny
of chain-decaying
nuclides. However, the
RAD-BCG Calculator is
constructed such that
the dose-modifying
factor can be modified.
See Module 2, Section 7
for a detailed discussion
on the rationale for the
radiation weighting
factor selected.
The RAD-BCG Calculator Provides the Capability
to Modify the Internal DCFs
Internal DCFs. The default internal DCFs used in the graded
approach include the contribution from build-up of progeny with half-
lives less than 100y. A user can select whether or not the energy of
the progeny will be included in the calculations. This is done in the
Dose Factors and Common Parameters Spreadsheet.
Section 150
Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Emitters. The default value of
the radiation weighting factor (default = 20) for alpha particles and the
alpha-emitting progeny of chain-decaying radionuclides can be
modified in the Dose Factors and Common Parameters Spreadsheet.
The dose factors were calculated as the sum of all decay energies and multiplied by
appropriate unit conversion factors. The equation used to calculate an internal dose factor for a
specific radionuclide is shown below. The resultant dose factors are presented in Table 2.4.
For internal exposure to contaminants, the units for the dose coefficients were calculated as
Gy/y per Bq/kg of wet tissue.
1dis(s &1 1Gy
' ΣΣYjEjQj 1.6022E&13 J MeV &1 3.1536E07s(y &1DCFinternal,i Bq i j 1J(kg &1
where the following terms apply:
DCFinternal,i = Gy/y per Bq/kg of wet tissue for radionuclide i;
Yj = yield (abundance) of radiation j per disintegration of nuclide i;
Ej = energy (MeV) of radiation j for nuclide i; and
Qj is the radiation weighting factor (quality factor, also called WR) for radiation j of
nuclide i.
The dose factors can also be expressed in rad/d per pCi/g, where all other factors have been
defined:
1dis(s &1 0.037Bq 0.01g(rad
' ΣΣYjEjQj (1.6022E&06 erg(MeV &1)(8.64E04s(d &1)DCFinternal,i Bq pCi ergi j
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Table 2.4 Screening Level Internal Dose Factors
Radionuclide
Internal dose with progenya Internal dose without progeny
Gy/y per Bq/kg
(wet)
Rad/d per pCi/g
(wet)
Gy/y per Bq/kg
(wet)
Rad/d per
pCi/g (wet)
241Am 5.6E-04 5.7E-03 5.6E-04 5.7E-03
144Ce 6.8E-06 6.9E-05 5.6E-07 5.7E-06
135Cs 3.4E-07 3.4E-06 3.4E-07 3.4E-06
137Cs 4.3E-06 4.3E-05 9.4E-07 9.6E-06
60Co 1.3E-05 1.3E-04 1.3E-05 1.3E-04
154Eu 7.6E-06 7.7E-05 7.6E-05 7.7E-05
155Eu 6.2E-07 6.3E-06 6.2E-07 6.3E-06
3H 2.9E-08 2.9E-07 2.9E-08 2.9E-07
129I 4.5E-07 4.5E-06 4.5E-07 4.5E-06
131I 2.9E-06 2.9E-05 2.9E-06 2.9E-05
239Pu 5.3E-04 5.4E-03 5.3E-04 5.4E-03
226Ra 3.0E-03 3.1E-02 4.9E-04 5.0E-03
228Ra 3.6E-03 3.7E-02 8.5E-08 8.6E-07
125Sb 2.7E-06 2.7E-05 2.7E-06 2.7E-05
90Sr 5.7E-06 5.8E-05 9.9E-07 1.0E-05
99Tc 5.1E-07 5.2E-06 5.1E-07 5.2E-06
232Th 4.1E-03 4.1E-02 4.1E-04 4.2E-03
233U 4.9E-04 5.0E-03 4.9E-04 5.0E-03
234U 4.9E-04 5.0E-03 4.9E-04 5.0E-03
235U 4.5E-04 4.6E-03 4.5E-04 4.6E-03
238U 4.4E-04 4.5E-03 4.3E-04 4.4E-03
65Zn 3.0E-06 3.0E-05 3.0E-06 3.0E-05
95Zr 8.4E-06 8.5E-05 4.3E-06 4.4E-05
(a) Includes listed radiations (α β γ, X) and an RBE of 20 for alpha particles. Progeny with half-lives
less than 100 y are included at 100% abundance.
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3 Equations and Models for Calculating Dose to Biota and
Deriving BCGs
Based on the potential pathways of exposure, BCGs were derived for surface water, sediment,
and soil. Calculated using conservative assumptions, the BCGs are intended to preclude the
relevant biota from being exposed to radiation levels in excess of established or recommended
biota dose limits. Determination of compliance with the dose limits requires that all organism-
relevant environmental media be evaluated at the same time. This is done by using the “sum of
fractions” approach commonly used in evaluating radionuclide discharges to the environment.
3.1 An Important Note on Estimating Internal Tissue Concentrations for Use in
Dose Equations: The Lumped Parameter
Section 151
For most radionuclides, the single most important predictor of biota dose is the method used to
estimate internal tissue concentrations. For the general screening phase of the graded
approach, lumped parameters were used to provide estimates of organism tissue
concentration, and ultimately derive the BCG corresponding to each radionuclide, media, and
organism type. The technical literature contains reference to empirically-based parameters
which measure concentrations of contaminants in an organism relative to the surrounding
media. These ratios are called “concentration ratios,” “concentration factors,” or “wet-weight
concentration ratios” (Bivs). These lumped parameter (e.g., Biv) values are available for many
radionuclides for plant:soil and for aquatic species:water. In a few instances they are also
available for animal:soil or sediment. The advantage of using one of these factors is that it
allows the prediction of tissue concentration based on simple measurements of contamination
in environmental media such as water, sediment and soil.
The selection of a value for this lumped parameter becomes problematic, however, when
considering the range of organism types meant to be covered by the graded approach. For
example, there is very limited data available for riparian and terrestrial animals (i.e., very limited
animal:water, animal:soil, and animal:sediment concentration ratios). As the graded approach
methodology evolved it became apparent that these data gaps (e.g., for selecting appropriate
lumped parameters) needed to be addressed. Two alternative approaches for deriving and
selecting lumped parameters were evaluated:
• Calculating the lumped parameter values by multiplying related concentration
ratios (product approach). For example, the product of plant:soil and animal:plant
concentration ratios yields an animal:soil ratio which may be used as the lumped
parameter for a terrestrial animal. This approach must be used with caution, as the data
used in the process are most likely from different sources. This approach is also
hampered by the general lack of environmental data.
• Calculating the lumped parameter values by using uncertainty analysis on the
kinetic/allometric method. The kinetic/allometric method, as used in the analysis
phase of the graded approach, is based on mathematically modeling the exposure of an
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organism using simplistic, first-order kinetic reactions. There are several allometric
equations which relate body size to many of the parameters contributing to internal dose
(e.g., to include ingestion rates, life span, and inhalation rate). Uncertainty analysis
(e.g., using Monte Carlo techniques) on each of the allometric equations, and on their
corresponding parameters varied over their known ranges of values, can provide an
upper bound estimate (i.e., at the 95th percentile) of lumped parameter values for those
organism types (riparian and terrestrial animals) for which there is limited empirical data.
These alternative approaches, and the rationale for their use, are discussed further in Section
3.4. Figure 3.1 shows the logic flow for the derivation and selection of default lumped
parameter values employed in the general screening phase for each of the four organism types
addressed in the graded approach.
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Figure 3.1 Process for Selecting Default Biv/Lumped Parameter Values for Use in the
General Screening Phase of the Graded Approach
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Section 152
3.2 Equations and Models for Aquatic Systems
3.2.1 Aquatic Animals
Sediment BCGs for Aquatic Animals. The conceptual model for aquatic animals places the
organism at the sediment-water interface. In this screening model, sediment presents an
external dose hazard to the aquatic animal, with the BCG therefore based on a semi-infinite
exposure model. Uptake of contaminants from the sediment to the organism is implicitly
addressed via the empirical organism to water lumped parameter discussed in following
sections. The method used to derive the aquatic animal BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide
in contaminated sediment is:
365.25(DLaa
'BCG(sediment)i,aquatic animal CFaa(DCFext,sediment,i
Equation 1
where BCG(sediment)i,aquatic animal (Bq kg-1) is the concentration of nuclide i in sediment which,
based on the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLaa
(0.01 Gy d-1) to the aquatic animal;
365.25 (days per year) is a conversion factor;
DLaa (0.01 Gy d-1) is the dose limit for aquatic animals. This limit can be adjusted by the
user if so directed by an appropriate agency;
DCFext,sediment,i (Gy y-1 per Bq kg-1) is the external dose conversion factor used to estimate
the dose rate to the tissues of the aquatic animal from nuclide i in the sediment; and
CFaa (dimensionless) is the correction factor for area or organism residence time. This
correction factor is set at a default of 1.
It should be noted that Equation 1 can also be used to evaluate compliance for aquatic plants.
Both the dose factor and dose limit are the same.
Water BCGs for Aquatic Animals. The conceptual model for aquatic animals places the
organism at the sediment-water interface. In this screening model, water presents both an
internal and external dose hazard to the aquatic animal. Lumped parameters (e.g.,
bioaccumulation factors) are used to estimate the extent of internal contamination (and by
extension, the dose), and external exposure is assessed with a semi-infinite source term. The
method used to derive the screening-level aquatic animal BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide
in contaminated water is:
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
365.25(DLaa
'BCG(water)i,aquatic animal
CFaa( %0.001(Biv,aa(DCFinternal,i DCFexternal,water,i
Equation 2
where BCG(water)i,aquatic animal (Bq m-3) is the concentration of nuclide i in water which, based on
the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLaa
(0.01 Gy d-1) to the aquatic animal;
DLaa (0.01 Gy d-1) is the dose limit for aquatic animals. This limit can be
adjusted by the user if so directed by an appropriate agency;
0.001 is the conversion factor for L to m3;
Biv,aa,i (Lkg-1) is the fresh mass aquatic animal to water concentration factor for nuclide i;
DCFinternal,i (Gy y-1 per Bq kg-1) is the dose conversion factor used to estimate the dose
rate to the tissues from nuclide i in tissues;
DCFexternal, water,i (Gy y-1 per Bq m-3) is the dose conversion factor used to estimate the
dose rate to the aquatic animal from submersion in contaminated water; and
all other terms have been defined.
It should be noted that Equation 2 can also be used to evaluate compliance for aquatic plants.
Both the dose factor and the dose limit are the same. In lieu of an aquatic animal Biv, simply
substitute an aquatic plant concentration factor.
3.2.2 Riparian Animals
Section 153
Sediment BCGs for Riparian Animals. The conceptual model for riparian animals also places
the organism at the sediment-water interface (as does the aquatic animal model). However, in
this screening model, sediment presents both an internal and external dose hazard to the
riparian animal. Lumped parameters are used to estimate the extent of internal contamination
(and by extension, the dose), and external exposure is assessed with a semi-infinite source
term. The method used to derive the riparian animal BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide in
contaminated sediment is:
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
365.25(DLra
'BCG(sediment)i,riparian animal CF )]ra([(LPra,sed,i(DCFinternal,i) % (DCFext,sediment,i
Equation 3
where BCG(sediment)i,riparian animal (Bq kg-1) is the concentration of nuclide i in sediment, based
on the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLra
(0.001 Gy d-1) to the riparian animal;
DLaa (0.001 Gy d-1) is the recommended dose limit for riparian animals. This limit can be
adjusted by the user if so directed by an appropriate agency;
LPra,sed,i (dimensionless) is the fresh mass riparian animal to sediment concentration
factor of nuclide i;
CFra (dimensionless) is the correction factor for area or organism residence time for the
riparian organism. This correction factor is set at a default of 1; and
all other terms have been defined.
Water BCGs for Riparian Animals. As noted previously, the conceptual model for riparian
animals has the animal situated at the sediment-water interface. In assessing potential
contributors to dose, water presents both an internal and external dose hazard. As before,
lumped parameters are used to estimate the extent of internal contamination. External
exposure is assessed with a semi-infinite source term. The method used to derive the
screening-level riparian animal BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide in contaminated water is
as follows:
365.25(DLra
'BCG(water)i,riparian animal CF )]ra([(0.001(LPra,water,i(DCFinternal,i) % (DCFext,water,i
Equation 4
where BCG(water)i, riparian animal (Bq m-3) is the concentration of nuclide i in water, which based on
the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLaa
(0.001 Gy d-1) to the riparian animal;
LPra,water, i (L/kg) is the fresh mass riparian animal to water concentration factor of nuclide
i; and
all other terms have been defined.
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3.2.3 Important Considerations When Implementing Equations and Models in an
Aquatic System Evaluation
For the aquatic environment, compliance with the dose limit is determined by comparison of the
projected dose from both water and sediment. This is achieved by using a sum of fractions
approach. The measured concentrations of radionuclides for the water and sediment pathways
are each ratioed to their respective BCGs and the resultant values summed. If the total is less
than one, then compliance (for that nuclide) is achieved. For multiple nuclides the process is
repeated, with the sum of all fractions (the grand total) required to be less than one for
compliance.
Co-located water and sediment samples. The preferred method of determining compliance
is to use co-located water and sediment data. If such data are available, then compliance is
determined in the manner described in the preceding paragraph.
Section 154
Water and sediment samples not co-located. In situations where co-located water and
sediment data are not available, the user estimates the missing data through use of the
radionuclide-specific “most probable” distribution coefficient. If water data are present, but
sediment data are unavailable, the missing sediment data are estimated through use of the
following calculation:
' 0.001(CCsediment water(Kd,most probable
Equation 5
where Csediment (Bq kg-1) is the concentration of nuclide i in sediment;
0.001 (m3 L-1) is the conversion factor for L to m3;
Cwater (Bq m-3) is the concentration of nuclide i in water; and
Kd,most probable (expressed as L kg-1 but also equates to mL g-1) is the distribution coefficient
used to relate the water concentration to the sediment concentration. In doing this
calculation, median values of distribution coefficients were selected, rather than extreme
values. For many nuclides, distribution coefficients range over several orders of
magnitude. Selection of extreme values would result in unrealistic projections of water
(or sediment) concentrations of radionuclides.
Conversely, if water data are unavailable, the RAD-BCG Calculator estimates the missing water
data through use of the following calculation:
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Csediment C ' water 0.001(Kd,most probable
Equation 6
where all terms have been previously defined.
If the user has water data from one location, and sediment data from another (for the same
radionuclide), they should use both approaches outlined above, and select the method which
results in the highest (e.g., most conservative) partial fraction.
3.3 Equations and Models for Terrestrial Systems
3.3.1 Terrestrial Plants
Soil BCGs for Terrestrial Plants. In this screening model, soil provides both an internal and
external dose hazard to plants. The conceptual model for terrestrial plants is based on the
entire plant being surrounded by soil. While many plants may have a substantial portion of their
mass above ground, the BCG thus derived, will be conservative. Lumped parameters (e.g.,
bioaccumulation factors) are used to estimate the extent of internal contamination (and by
extension, the dose), and external exposure is assessed using an infinite source term. The
lumped parameters used in the model account for aerial deposition onto plant surfaces with
subsequent uptake. The method used to derive the BCGs for terrestrial plant exposure to a
365.25(DL
BCG(soil)i,terrestrial plant ' tp
CFtp([(Biv,tp,i(DCinternal,i) % (DCFext,soil,i)]
single nuclide in contaminated soil is:
Equation 7
where BCG(soil)i,terrestrial plant (Bq kg-1) is the concentration of nuclide i in soil which, based on the
screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLtp
(0.01 Gy d-1) to the terrestrial plant;
DLtp (0.01 Gy d-1) is the recommended dose limit for terrestrial plants. This limit can be
adjusted by the user if so directed by an appropriate agency;
Biv,tp,i (dimensionless) is the fresh mass terrestrial plant to soil concentration factor;
CFtp (dimensionless) is the correction factor for area or time. This correction factor is set
at a default of 1;
DCFext, soil,i (Gy y-1 per Bq kg-1) is the dose conversion factor used to estimate the dose
M3-26
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rate to the plant tissues from nuclide i in surrounding soils; and
all other terms are as previously defined.
Section 155
It should be noted that the derivation of the water BCG for terrestrial plants only considers
external exposure of plants from submersion in water. Although this may seem to ignore
uptake of contaminants from pore water into the plant, there is very limited data available to
support this type of calculation. The best estimator of internal deposition is the plant-to-soil
uptake factor, utilized in Equation 7. If only water data is available, and no soil data (for
example, measurements in irrigation water), you can use the relationship outlined in Equation 5
to predict the soil concentration and substitute this value into Equation 7.
Water BCGs for Terrestrial Plants. The conceptual model for terrestrial plants is based on
the entire plant being surrounded by soil. However, the potential for exposure to contaminated
water – from soil pore water or from irrigation exists. As a compromise to the methodology,
external exposure from water was added. In this screening model, the BCG for water is based
on a semi-infinite exposure model. The method used to derive the BCGs for terrestrial plant
exposure to a single nuclide in contaminated water is:
365.25(DL
' tpBCG(water)i,terrestrial plant CFtp(DCFext,water,i
Equation 8
where BCG(water)i,terrestrial plant (Bq m-3) is the concentration of nuclide i in soil which, based on
the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLtp (0.01 Gy d-1)
to the terrestrial plant; and
all other terms are as previously defined.
3.3.2 Terrestrial Animals
Soil BCGs for Terrestrial Animals. The screening conceptual model for terrestrial animals
has the animal surrounded by soil. In assessing potential contributors to dose, soil presents
both an internal and external dose pathway. As before, lumped parameters are used to
estimate the extent of internal contamination (e.g., as might occur from ingestion or inhalation).
External exposure is assessed with an infinite source term. The method used to derive the
terrestrial animal BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide in contaminated soil is:
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
365.25(DLta
'BCG(soil)i,terrestrial animal CF )]ta([(LPta,soil,i(DCFinternal,i) % (DCFext,soil,i
Equation 9
where BCG(soil)i, terrestrial animal (Bq kg-1) is the concentration of nuclide i in soil which, based on
the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLta
(0.001 Gy d-1) to the terrestrial animal;
DLta (0.001 Gy d-1) is the recommended dose limit for terrestrial animals. This limit can
be adjusted by the user if so directed by an appropriate agency;
LPta,soil,i (dimensionless) is the fresh mass terrestrial animal to soil concentration factor of
nuclide i;
CFta (dimensionless) is the correction factor for area or organism residence time for the
terrestrial organism. This correction factor is set at 1 for the general screening phase of
the calculations; and
all other terms have been defined.
Water BCGs for Terrestrial Animals. The conceptual model for terrestrial animals is based
on the entire animal being surrounded by soil. However, the potential for exposure to
contaminated water from soil pore water or by drinking from contaminated ponds or rivers
exists. Water presents both an internal and external dose hazard. As before, lumped
parameters are used to estimate the extent of internal contamination (e.g., as might occur from
ingestion). A semi-infinite exposure model is used for the external exposure. The method used
to derive the terrestrial animal BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide in contaminated water is:
Section 156
365.25(DLta
'BCG(water)i,terrestrial animal )]Cta([(0.001(LPta,water,i(DCFinternal,i) % (DCFext,water,i
Equation 10
where BCG(water)i, terrestrial animal (Bq m -3) is the concentration of nuclide i in water which, based
on the screening level assumptions, numerically equates to a dose rate of DLta (0.001
Gy d-1) to the terrestrial animal;
LPta, water, i (L/kg) is the fresh mass terrestrial animal to water concentration factor of
nuclide i; and
all other factors have been defined.
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How are these Dose Equations and their Parameters
Used in Implementing the Graded Approach?
General Screening. The initial value of the “lumped parameter” (Biv) used in the general screening
phase is specifically chosen to produce conservative default BCGs. This quickly removes from
further consideration contamination levels that would not cause biota to receive doses above
acceptable limits. However, some sites may fail the general screen. This does not mean that they
are causing biota to receive doses above the acceptable limit, but suggests that further analysis is
warranted for specific radionuclides and media. It is recognized that actual Biv values range over
several orders of magnitude, depending upon biotic and abiotic features of the environment.
Site-Specific Screening. The next step is to examine the lumped parameter, and using data either
directly from the site, or from the technical literature, select a value which is more representative for
the specific-site conditions. In doing so, the screening calculation is repeated and a new site-
specific BCG is provided. The process for each organism-type is as follows:
• Aquatic Animals. The user is allowed to modify the Biv,aa,i (the wet weight bioaccumulation
factor) to a more site-representative value. All other aspects of the calculations remain the
same.
• Riparian Animals. The user is allowed to modify the lumped parameter (LPra,water,I and
LPra,sed,I, the wet weight bioaccumulation factor for animal to water or animal to sediment) to
a more site-representative value. All other aspects of the calculations remain the same.
• Terrestrial Plants. The user is allowed to modify the Biv,tp,i (the wet weight bioaccumulation
factor) to a more site-representative value. All other aspects of the calculations remain the
same.
• Terrestrial Animals. The user is allowed to modify the lumped parameter (LPta,water,I and
LPta,soil,I, the wet weight bioaccumulation factor for terrestrial animal to water or terrestrial
animal to soil) to a more site-representative value. All other aspects of the calculations
remain the same.
3.4 Alternatives to Lumped Parameters for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals: The
Kinetic/Allometric Method
As discussed in Section 3.1, for most radionuclides, the single-most important predictor of biota
dose is the method used to estimate internal tissue concentrations. The technical literature
contains reference to these empirically based parameters that measure concentrations of
contaminants in an organism relative to the surrounding media. These ratios are called
“concentration ratios,” “concentration factors,” or “wet-weight concentration ratios” (Bivs). These
lumped parameters (e.g., Biv values) are available for many nuclides for plant:soil and for
aquatic species:water. In a few instances they are also available for animals:soil or
animals:sediment. The advantage of using one of these factors is that it allows the prediction of
tissue concentration based on simple measurements of contamination in environmental media
Section 157
M3-29
DOE-STD-1153-2002
such as soil, water, or sediment. The use of lumped parameters is an integral feature of the
screening approach. However, as the methodology evolved it became apparent that there were
gaps in the data that needed to be addressed, particularly for riparian and terrestrial animal
lumped parameters. An alternative approach, called the kinetic/allometric method, was
developed. This method had two objectives: first, to fill in data gaps in the literature on lumped
parameters; and second, to provide users with an alternative, more sophisticated method for
evaluating dose to specific riparian and terrestrial animal receptors.
The kinetic/allometric method is applied in the site-specific analysis component of the graded
approach. In site-specific analysis, the internal pathways of exposure are examined in greater
detail. This evaluation relies upon mathematically modeling the exposure of the organism using
simplistic, first-order kinetic reactions of the form:
R &kt)q ' (l&e
k
Equation 11
where q is the total activity (Bq) in the organism of concern at time t;
R is the intake rate of activity (Bq d-1) into the organism;
k is the effective loss rate of activity (d-1) from the organism; and
t is the total length of exposure to the contaminant (d).
The activity concentration in the animal is calculated as q divided by the mass; in SI units the
mass would be expressed in kg. While this calculation method is simple, it still requires
information on the intake rate of the organism, the total body mass, the loss rate of the
radionuclide and the exposure period.
3.4.1 A Scaling Approach to Predicting Tissue Concentrations
The key to estimating body burdens in biota is an expression for intake that can account for
potential change with size of the organism. There are several allometric equations which relate
body size to many parameters, including ingestion rate, life span, inhalation rate, home range
and more (West et al. 1997). These equations take the form of:
Y ' αX β
Equation 12
M3-30
DOE-STD-1153-2002
where Y and X are size-related measures and α and β are constants.
While these equations were originally derived from empirical observations, there is a growing
body of evidence that these relationships have their origins in the dynamics of energy transport
mechanisms. An example of one use of this type of equation is illustrated in deriving soil BCGs
for terrestrial animals.
3.4.1.1 Estimating Intake (Soil Pathway)
The intake of radioactivity into a terrestrial animal is presumed to come from three routes of
exposure: ingestion of contaminated foodstuffs, ingestion of contaminated soil, and inhalation of
re-suspended soil.
Ingestion of food. Metabolic rate is known to scale to body mass to the ¾ power (Calder
1984, Reiss 1989, and West et al. 1997). The food intake rate can also be calculated if
allowances are made for several factors (Whicker and Shultz 1982):
a 70M 0.75 r '
dc
Equation 13
where r = food intake rate in g/day;
a = ratio of active or maintenance metabolic rate to the basal metabolic rate;
d = fraction of the energy ingested that is assimilated and oxidized;
c = caloric value of food in kcal /g; and
M = live body weight in kilograms.
The rate of radionuclide intake into the animal is a product of the food intake rate and the
activity concentration of the foodstuff. The concentration of radionuclides in food is a product of
the soil concentration (Cs, Bq/kg) and the food-to-soil uptake factor (Biv,tp,i dimensionless). The
radionuclide intake rate via ingestion is expressed in Bq/d:
Section 158
70M 0.75 ' 10&3 aIingestion,food,i Cs,iBiv,tp,i dc
Equation 14
Where I ingestion,food,i is the intake rate (Bq d-1) of a radionuclide into the animal via consumption of
contaminated food, the concentration of radionuclides in the contaminated food is
calculated as a product of the soil concentration and the food-to-soil (wet-weight) uptake
M3-31
DOE-STD-1153-2002
factor (Biv), and the factor of 10-3 converts the ingestion rate of equation 13 from g d-1 to
kg d-1; and
all other terms have been defined.
Ingestion of soil. Studies on soil ingestion by wildlife indicate that it scales as a percentage of
the mass of the daily diet (EPA 1993). The rate of radionuclide intake into the animal via soil
ingestion (Bq d-1) would therefore be the soil concentration times the daily mass of food
ingested times the fraction of the daily diet that comes from soil ingestion (f).
70M 0.75 ' f 10&3 aIingestion,soil,i Cs,i dc
Equation 15
where f is the fraction of the mass of daily diet that comes from soil ingestion.
Inhalation of soil. The rate of intake of soil into the lungs of the animal can be calculated as
the product of the inhalation rate (m3 d-1) and the air concentration (in Bq m-3) of the nuclide.
The air concentration can be estimated using the mass loading approach. The activity in air is
calculated as the product of X, the dust loading in air (in kg m-3) and Csoil. The lung ventilation
rate also scales as a function of body mass (Pedley 1975 and West et al. 1997). Because of
differences in solubility in body fluids, material taken into the body via inhalation may (or may
not) be more readily absorbed than those taken in via ingestion. In his paper assessing the
contribution of inhalation to dose, Zach (1985) derived a series of correction factors (PT/IT)
which provided an adjustment for inhalation relative to ingestion. These factors are used to
correct the inhalation rate to that of an equivalent amount of ingested soil:
PT
' 0.481 M 0.76 Iinhalation,normalized,i IT
X Cs,i
Equation 16
Calculating Total Intake. The total intake to the body can be calculated as the sum of inputs
from inhalation given in equation 16, food ingestion in equation 14, and soil ingestion in
equation 15. This is accomplished by direct substitution and rearrangement into the
relationship R = Iinhalation + Isoil ingestion+ Ifood, as follows:
M3-32
DOE-STD-1153-2002
R ' Csoil (Biv % f) 10&3 a
dc
70M 0.75 %
PT
IT
X 0.481M 0.76
Equation 17
Estimating the Fraction Assimilated into the Body. Because only a fraction of the material
ingested actually enters into the blood, the total intake rate must be modified by a factor, f1, to
account for this difference:
R ( ' f1 R ' f1 Csoil (Biv % f) 10&3 a
dc
70M 0.75 %
PT
IT
X 0.481M 0.76
Equation 18
where R* is the species-independent estimate of radionuclide uptake to blood (Bq d-1) from
exposure to contaminated soil, and fi is the fraction of intake assimilated to the body.
3.4.1.2 Estimating the Total Loss Rate from the Organism
The loss of radioactive material from the organism is due to radiological decay as well as
biological elimination. There is substantial evidence that biological half-time of material in the
body is related to metabolism, and therefore should be a function of body mass with the
following relationship:
Equation 19
' αW βT1/2,biological,i
Section 159
where α and β are scaling constants related to the biological elimination of a particular element
and W is the body mass (in g). In their book, Whicker and Schultz (1982) identified empirical
relationships for five elements including Sr, Cs, I, Co, and 3H. Three of these elements
exhibited scaling to the ¼ power (Cs, Sr, Co). Iodine scaled at W0.13 and 3H scaled at W0.55 .
The biological decay time is then used to calculate the biological decay constant (e.g, k in
Equation 11). The effective decay constant, keff is calculated as the sum of the radiological and
biological decay constants.
Scaling constants for other radionuclides were estimated from data provided in the literature on
the biological elimination rates for various species of animals.
M3-33
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3.4.1.3 Calculating the Fractional Buildup to Equilibrium Tissue Concentrations
The activity in an organism continuously exposed to a constant source of contaminated material
will, potentially, continue to increase until either a maximum value, or equilibrium, is attained.
The degree of equilibrium that is attained is dictated by the lifespan of the organism, and the
length of exposure, in conjunction with the effective loss-rate constant. For the purposes of
radiological protection we need to know the maximum potential body burden in the organism. If
exposure is constant throughout the life of the organism, then the time of maximum body
burden will definitely occur when the exposure time equals maximum lifespan of the organism
(for radionuclides with a short half-life or biological elimination rate, the time to reach maximum
body burden will be substantially shorter). Using the lifespan of the organism to calculate tissue
concentrations is the simplest approach.
In a manner similar to metabolic rate and inhalation rate, the maximum lifespan of an organism
has been found to scale as a function of body mass. Calder (1984) analyzed the lifespan of 35
species of wild mammals to estimate their life expectancy (in the wild):
1.02 M 0.30±0.026 'Texpected,wild
Equation 20
where Texpected,wild is in years and M is the live weight in kg.
3.4.1.4 Calculating Species-Independent Tissue Concentrations from Soil Exposure
The activity in an organism continuously exposed to a constant source of contaminated material
will, potentially, continue to increase until either a maximum value, or equilibrium, is attained.
The degree of equilibrium that is attained is dictated by the lifespan of the organism, and the
length of exposure, in conjunction with the effective loss-rate constant. If exposure is constant
throughout the life of the organism, then the time of maximum body burden will occur when the
exposure time equals the maximum lifespan of the organism (for radionuclides with a short half-
life or biological elminination rate, the time to reach maximum body burden will be substantially
shorter). Equations 11, 13, 18, and 20 can be combined (with appropriate unit conversions) to
provide an estimate of the maximal tissue concentration for the organism consuming
contaminated plants, soil, and breathing contaminated air:
Canimal soil '
f1Csoil (Biv % f) 10&3 a
dc
70M 0.75 %
PT
IT
X 0.481M 0.76
(krad%kbio)M
1&e &(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
Equation 21
M3-34
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3.4.1.5 Calculating Limiting Soil Concentrations (BCGs) Using the Kinetic/Allometric
Method: An Example
Section 160
Although predicting tissue concentrations of species exposed to contaminants is important, the
overall purpose of this effort is to derive media concentrations that will be protective of biota at
a site. The methodology can be demonstrated using the soil-terrestrial animal pathway.
Equation 21 estimates the maximum potential tissue concentration in an animal from prolonged
exposure to soil contaminated with radionuclide i at a unit concentration (e.g., 1 Bq/kg). If a
particular dose limit is chosen (Dta for example, in Gy/y), the limiting soil concentration to
achieve that dose limit (LSi) can be calculated as:
DtaLSi '
Canimal,iDCFinternal,i
Equation 22
where LSi = limiting soil concentration in Bq/kg;
Dta = chosen dose limit, in Gy/y;
Canimal = predicted tissue concentration of an animal from exposure to 1 Bq/kg
contamination in soil; and
DCF = internal dose factor (Gy/y per Bq/kg of tissue).
The equation can be further modified to account for external exposure of the organism:
LSi '
Dta
Canimal,iDCFinternal,i%DCFext,i
Equation 23
where DCFext,i = external dose conversion factor (Gy/y per Bq/kg of soil); and all other factors
have been defined.
Substitution of the tissue concentrations (Equation 21) into the equation for calculating limiting
media concentrations results in the following equation:
0.001Gy(d &1
'LSterrestrial animal,i f1(α%β)δDCFinternal,i
M
% DCFext,soil,i Keff
Equation 24
M3-35
DOE-STD-1153-2002
where α provides an estimate of the daily intake rate of contaminated food and soil into the
terrestrial animal;
aα ' 70M 0.75(Biv,sp,i%f)dc
Equation 25
β provides the estimate of the daily intake that occurs through inhalation (and adjusts uptake
relative to ingestion);
PTβ ' X 0.481M 0.76
IT
Equation 26
and δ provides an estimate of the exposure period, expressed as a function of the maximal life
span of the target organism;
&keff1.02M 0.30
δ ' 1&e
Equation 27
and all other terms have been previously defined.
3.4.2 Application of the Kinetic/Allometric Method in the Derivation of BCGs for Riparian
Animals
In the analysis phase of the graded approach, a user may not have access to site-specific Bivs
or lumped parameters, or use of them results in exceeding site-specific screening. If that is the
case, the user is allowed to conduct a more in-depth analysis of potential dose using the
kinetic/allometric method. Equations have been developed for riparian animals using the
methodology and equations discussed in Section 3.4.1. Two equations were developed, one
for exposure to contaminated sediment, and a second for exposure to contaminated water.
Sediment. Riparian animal exposure to sediment considers external exposure as well as the
inadvertent ingestion of sediment. The derivation of the sediment BCG for riparian animals is
based on predicting maximal tissue concentrations after a lifetime of exposure. The equation
used to derive the riparian BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide in contaminated sediment is:
M3-36
DOE-STD-1153-2002
'BCG(sediment)i,riparian animal
365.25(DLra
&(krad% kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
70M 0.75 f1f 10&3 a 1&e DCFinternal,i dcCFra % DCFext,sediment,i
Mkrad%kbio
Equation 28
Water. The equation used to derive the riparian BCGs for exposure to a single nuclide in
contaminated water is similar but includes ingestion of contaminated foodstuff and water, as
well as external exposure, and is based on predicting maximal tissue concentrations after a
lifetime of exposure. Water consumption scales as a function of body mass (EPA 1993) in a
manner similar to ingestion:
Section 161
Equation 29
rwater = 0.099M 0.90
where rwater is in Ld-1 and all other terms have been defined.
The BCG is calculated as:
'BCG(water)i,riparian animal
365.25(DLra
&(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3 a 70M 0.7510&3 %0.099M 0.90 1&ef1 Biv,af (DCFinternal,i)dc0.001( )CFra % (DCFext,water,i)M(krad%kbio
Equation 30
where Biv,af = aquatic foods bioconcentration factor and all other terms have been defined.
It should be noted that Equations 28 and 30 can be condensed to the simpler form of Equations
3 and 4 by substitution of a single lumped parameter constant for the organism-specific
variables. Also, it is possible to use Equation 30 to assess impacts to either carnivorous or
herbivorous riparian animals by substituting appropriate values of Biv,aa into this equation. This
method is applicable to carnivores because the lumped parameters selected for the default
case represent the upper-end values from the technical literature. These literature values
encompass carnivores as well as herbivores. The bioconcentration factor (Biv,aa) in Equation
30, when multiplied by the water concentration, provides a prediction of radionuclide
concentration in the riparian animal’s food. For herbivorous riparian animals, one can substitute
Biv values appropriate for aquatic plant:water in lieu of Biv,aa values for aquatic animals.
M3-37
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3.4.3 Application of the Kinetic/Allometric Method in the Derivation of BCGs for
Terrestrial Animals
In a manner similar to that used for riparian animals, equations have been developed for
terrestrial animals using the methodology and equations discussed in section 3.4.1.
Soil. The derivation of the soil BCG considers ingestion of contaminated foodstuff, and soil,
inhalation of soil, and external exposure. It is based on predicting maximal tissue
concentrations after a lifetime of exposure.
'BCG(soil)i,terrestrial animal
365.25(DLta
CFta
f1 (Biv%f) 10&3 a
dc
70M 0.75 % PT
IT
X 0.481M 0.76 1&e &(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.020.3
(DCFinternal,i)
(krad%kbio)M
%(DCFext,soil,i)
Equation 31
where all terms have been defined.
Water. The equation used to derive the terrestrial animal BCGs for exposure to a single
nuclide in contaminated water is similar to that used for soil, but includes ingestion of
contaminated water, as well as external exposure, and is based on predicting maximal tissue
concentrations after a lifetime of exposure.
365.35(DLra
'BCG(water)i,terrestrial animal
&(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
f10.099M 0.90 1&e )(DCFinternal,i
0.001 )CFta % (DCFext,i)M(krad%kbio
Equation 32
where all terms have been defined.
It should be noted that Equations 31 and 32 could be condensed to the simpler form of
Equations 9 and 10 by substitution of a single lumped parameter constant for the organism-
specific variables. Also, it is possible to use Equation 31 to assess impacts to either
carnivorous or herbivorous animals by substituting appropriate values of Biv into this equation.
The bioconcentration factor (Biv,tp) in Equation 31, when multiplied by the soil concentration,
provides a prediction of radionuclide concentration in the terrestrial animal’s food. While Biv
values for animal:soil could be substituted, a more conservative approach is to use the existing
(Biv,tp) values provided for terrestrial plants. In this manner, biomagnification through higher
trophic levels can be assessed.
M3-38
DOE-STD-1153-2002
3.5 Selection of Lumped Parameters for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals
Section 162
Recall that the general screening phase of the graded approach utilizes lumped parameters to
provide estimates of organism tissue concentration, and ultimately derive the nuclide, media,
and organism–specific BCGs. While there is a relative abundance of data for aquatic animals
and terrestrial plants, less information is found for terrestrial and riparian animals.
As noted in Sections 3.4.2 and 3.4.3, the kinetic/allometric equations can be condensed to a
simpler form by substitution of a single lumped parameter in place of the organism-specific
variables. The choice of a value for this lumped parameter becomes problematic, however,
when considering the range of organism types meant to be covered by the method. Also, there
is very limited data available in the literature on animal:water, animal:soil, and animal:sediment
ratios. Two alternative approaches were evaluated:
Calculating Lumped Parameters by Multiplying Related Concentration Ratios (Product
Approach). It is possible to calculate the lumped parameters by multiplying related
concentration ratios; for example, the product of plant:soil and animal:plant concentration ratios
yields a animal:soil ratio which may be substituted for the lumped parameter used in Equation
9. This approach must be used with caution, as the data used in the process are most likely
from different sources. This approach also is hampered by the lack of environmental data.
Calculating Lumped Parameters by Using Uncertainty Analysis on the Kinetic/Allometric
Method. An alternative method to developing lumped parameters for riparian and terrestrial
animals was addressed by using uncertainty analysis on the kinetic/allometric method. A
Monte-Carlo simulation was used to determine the effect of parameter variability on the
calculation of maximal animal tissue concentrations relative to environmental media
concentrations. The allometric equations shown for riparian and terrestrial animals in Section
3.4.2 and 3.4.3, respectively, were rearranged to predict lumped parameters resulting from
exposure to a unit concentration of contaminant in water, sediment, or soil. The rearranged
equations are shown below. Each of the variables has been previously defined.
&(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
70M 0.75 f1f 10&3 a 1&e
dcCriparian animal sediment
' 'LP(sediment)i,riparian animal )MCsediment (krad%kbio
Equation 33
M3-39
DOE-STD-1153-2002
&(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
70M 0.75 10&3 a
%0.099M 0.9 1&ef1 Biv af dcCi,riparian animal
' 'LP(water)i,riparian animal C )Mwater (krad%kbio
Equation 34
PT &(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
70M 0.75 % X 0.481M 0.76 1&ef1 (Biv%f) 10&3 a
dc ITCanimal soil
' 'LP(soil)i,terrestrial animal )MCsoil (krad%kbio
Equation 35
&(krad%kbio)(365.25)(1.02M 0.3
f1 0.099M 0.90 1&eCanimal, water
' 'LP(water)i,riparian animal C )Mwater (krad%kbio
Equation 36
A Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis was conducted on each equation, with parameters varied
over their known ranges. The range of values assigned each variable used in the uncertainty
analysis was taken from the technical literature. These values, and their accompanying
distributions, are shown in Table 3.1.
Section 163
Ten thousand simulations were run for each equation and nuclide. Results were generated for
twenty-three radionuclides, and the 95th percentile value for each was compared with data
(where it existed) from the technical literature. The results are tabulated in Table 3.2 (A-D).
Based on analysis, the model predictions tracked reasonably well with the values observed in
the scientific literature. The lumped parameter value selected (from a choice of available
empirical data, product approach, and uncertainty analysis on the kinetic/allometric method) for
use as the default lumped parameter for use in general screening is highlighted in each table.
The preference was to use empirical data where available and of good quality, as was the case
for many terrestrial animal:soil values. However, as previously discussed, data for riparian and
terrestrial animals was generally limited. In most instances, the kinetic/allometric result was
chosen over values taken from the technical literature. Generally, the kinetic/allometric
calculation resulted in a higher estimate of the lumped parameter. This is expected, owing to
the generally conservative nature of parameter values used in the kinetic/allometric method.
M3-40
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 3.1 Parameters Used in Kinetic/Allometric Method Uncertainty Analysis for Riparian
and Terrestrial Animals
Equation and Parameter Mean
Range
(and distribution)a
Riparian animal: sediment and water lumped parameter assessment
r ra ' a
dc
70M b rra = food intake rate in g/day
rra,sediment ' a
dc
70M b f rra,sediment = sediment intake rate in g/day;
a, ratio of active to maintenance metabolic rate (see equation
13)
2 0.5-3.0 (normal)
d, fraction of energy ingested that is assimilated (see equation
13)
0.65 0.3-0.9 (normal)
c, caloric value of food intake (see equation 13) 5 4 – 9 (normal)
b, exponent in allometric relationship detailing consumption as
a function of body mass (see equation 13)
0.75 0.68-0.8 (normal)
f, fraction of diet that is soil (see equation 15) 0.1 0.01-0.55 (normal)
M, body mass in kilograms 1 kg 0.02 – 6000
(log normal)
Tls ' 1.02 M 0.30
Tls = maximum lifespan of the organism, years
exponent (0.30), allometric relationship detailing lifespan as a
function of body mass (see equation 20)
0.3 0.25 – 0.33 (normal)
constant (1.02), allometric relationship, detailing lifespan as a
function of body mass (equation 20)
1.02 0.9 – 2.00 (normal)
λbio,i '
0.69315
aM b
λ bio,i= biological decay constant of material in organism,
per day
b, exponent, allometric relationship detailing biological half
time as a function of body mass (equation 19)
Varies by
nuclide
0.24 for Cs
0.15 – 0.3 (normal)
a, constant, allometric relationship, detailing biological half
time as a function of body mass (equation 19)
Varies by
nuclide 3.5
for Cs
2 - 5 (normal)
Iw ' 0.099 M 0.9 Iw =water intake, L/d
constant, allometric relationship, detailing water intake rate
Iw(l/d) as a function of body mass, where Iw = 0.099W0.90
0.099 0.07 - 0.13 (normal)
exponent, allometric relationship, detailing water intake rate as
a function of body mass where Iw = 0.099W0.90
0.9 0.63 - 1.17 (normal)
M3-41
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 3.1 (Continued) Parameters Used in Kinetic/Allometric Method Uncertainty Analysis for
Riparian and Terrestrial Animals
Equation and Parameter Mean
Range
(and distribution)a
Terrestrial animal: soil and water lumped parameter assessment
rinhale,i ' 0.481 M 0.76 riinhale, i = inhalation rate of soil
Section 164
exponent (0.76), allometric relationship detailing inhalation
rate as a function of body mass (equation 16)
0.76 0.64-0.86 (normal)
X Dust loading (equation 16) 0.001 0.0001 – 0.01
(log normal)
constant (0.481), allometric relationship, detailing inhalation
rate as a function of body mass (equation 16)
0.481 0.001 – 0.66 (normal)
rta,soil = rra,sed
rta = rra
all other factors have been defined.
Varies Varies
aThe distributions used in this assessment were created by examination of the range of values of the input
variables and, where possible, by testing using the forecasting and risk analysis software, Crystal Ball®.
M3-42
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-0
4
3.
1E
-0
3
1.
4E
-0
4
C
e
3.
9E
-0
2
1.
5E
-0
4
4.
8E
-0
4
C
s
4.
4E
-0
1
1.
2E
-0
1
2.
7E
-0
1
C
o
4.
0E
-0
2
4.
3E
-0
3
1.
0E
-0
2
4.
5E
-0
1
E
u
5.
9E
-0
4
3.
9E
-0
3
H
6.
0E
-0
1
1.
2E
-0
1
4.
3E
-0
1
I
1.
1E
+
00
1.
3E
-0
1
3.
2E
-0
1
P
u
3.
0E
-0
6
3.
6E
-0
4
3.
2E
-0
3
5.
0E
-0
5
R
a
3.
0E
-0
2
1.
4E
-0
2
3.
0E
-0
2
S
b
1.
8E
-0
3
1.
8E
-0
4
4.
1E
-0
4
S
r
3.
6E
-0
1
1.
1E
+
00
2.
0E
+
00
T
c
1.
2E
-0
2
1.
7E
-0
2
4.
6E
-0
2
T
h
2.
4E
-0
7
2.
9E
-0
4
1.
9E
-0
3
U
1.
0E
-0
1
1.
6E
-0
3
3.
8E
-0
3
1.
0E
-0
3
Z
n
7.
2E
-0
1
1.
8E
+
00
Z
r
6.
4E
-0
3
1.
1E
-0
3
3.
0E
-0
3
a T
he
s
ha
de
d
ce
ll
in
di
ca
te
s
th
is
v
al
ue
is
u
se
d
as
th
e
de
fa
ul
t l
um
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
in
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
o
f t
he
g
ra
de
d
ap
pr
oa
ch
.
B
la
nk
c
el
ls
in
di
ca
te
d
at
a
w
as
u
na
va
ila
bl
e.
M
3-
43
D
O
E
-S
T
D
-1
15
3-
20
02
T
ab
le
3
.2
B
A
C
om
pa
ris
on
o
f L
um
pe
d
P
ar
am
et
er
V
al
ue
s
D
et
er
m
in
ed
b
y
U
nc
er
ta
in
ty
A
na
ly
si
s
on
th
e
K
in
et
ic
/A
llo
m
et
ric
M
et
ho
d,
P
ro
du
ct
A
pp
ro
ac
h,
a
nd
E
m
pi
ric
al
D
at
a
(L
ite
ra
tu
re
V
al
ue
s)
: R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
to
W
at
er
a
E
le
m
en
t
C
al
cu
la
te
d
as
P
ro
d
u
ct
o
f
C
o
n
ce
n
tr
at
io
n
R
at
io
s
(C
R
)
A
n
im
al
t
o
W
at
er
V
al
u
e
K
in
et
ic
/A
llo
m
et
ri
c
M
et
h
o
d
E
m
p
ir
ic
al
ly
M
ea
su
re
d
L
u
m
p
ed
P
ar
am
et
er
50
th
P
er
ce
n
ti
le
95
th
P
er
ce
n
ti
le
A
m
2.
2E
-0
2
1.
4E
+
00
1.
2E
+
01
C
e
3.
9E
+
01
1.
4E
+
01
3.
5E
+
01
C
s
1.
5E
+
05
2.
6E
+
04
4.
7E
+
04
2.
5E
+
05
C
o
1.
0E
+
03
8.
6E
+
01
1.
6E
+
02
9.
0E
+
02
b
E
u
3.
6E
+
00
2.
0E
+
01
H
1.
2E
-0
1
2.
4E
-0
1
8.
1E
-0
1
I
1.
1E
+
02
2.
9E
+
02
5.
7E
+
02
2.
1E
+
02
P
u
1.
5E
-0
2
3.
6E
+
00
3.
0E
+
01
6.
7E
+
00
R
a
3.
2E
+
01
Section 165
4.
6E
+
02
8.
0E
+
02
S
b
1.
8E
+
00
1.
7E
-0
1
3.
1E
-0
1
S
r
1.
4E
+
03
3.
5E
+
03
6.
2E
+
03
9.
0E
+
03
b
T
c
1.
0E
+
01
1.
4E
+
01
2.
9E
+
01
T
h
2.
4E
-0
1
2.
4E
-0
1
1.
5E
+
00
U
5.
1E
+
00
1.
6E
+
01
3.
0E
+
01
Z
n
1.
2E
+
05
2.
5E
+
05
Z
r
5.
0E
+
02
1.
8E
+
01
4.
0E
+
01
a
T
he
s
ha
de
d
ce
ll
in
di
ca
te
s
th
is
v
al
ue
is
u
se
d
as
th
e
de
fa
ul
t l
um
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
in
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
o
f t
he
g
ra
de
d
ap
pr
oa
ch
.
B
la
nk
c
el
ls
in
di
ca
te
d
at
a
w
as
u
na
va
ila
bl
e.
b
T
he
se
v
al
ue
s
ar
e
no
t d
ire
ct
ly
m
ea
su
re
d
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
s
bu
t w
er
e
de
riv
ed
fr
om
o
th
er
p
ar
am
et
er
s.
M
3-
44
D
O
E
-S
T
D
-1
15
3-
20
02
T
ab
le
3
.2
C
A
C
om
pa
ris
on
o
f L
um
pe
d
P
ar
am
et
er
V
al
ue
s
D
et
er
m
in
ed
b
y
U
nc
er
ta
in
ty
A
na
ly
si
s
on
th
e
K
in
et
ic
/A
llo
m
et
ric
M
et
ho
d,
P
ro
du
ct
A
pp
ro
ac
h,
a
nd
E
m
pi
ric
al
D
at
a
(L
ite
ra
tu
re
V
al
ue
s)
: T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
to
S
oi
la
E
le
m
en
t
C
al
cu
la
te
d
as
P
ro
d
u
ct
o
f
C
o
n
ce
n
tr
at
io
n
R
at
io
s
(C
R
)
A
n
im
al
t
o
S
o
il
V
al
u
e
K
in
et
ic
/A
llo
m
et
ri
c
M
et
h
o
d
E
m
p
ir
ic
al
ly
M
ea
su
re
d
L
u
m
p
ed
P
ar
am
et
er
50
th
P
er
ce
n
ti
le
95
th
P
er
ce
n
ti
le
A
m
4.
1E
-0
7
3.
7E
-0
4
4.
0E
-0
3
1.
0E
-0
4
C
e
1.
7E
-0
4
2.
0E
-0
4
5.
5E
-0
4
5.
5E
-0
3
C
s
6.
7E
+
01
1.
1E
+
01
2.
0E
+
01
1.
0E
+
02
C
o
1.
1E
-0
1
1.
0E
-0
2
3.
0E
-0
2
8.
0E
-0
2
E
u
7.
9E
-0
4
4.
6E
-0
3
H
6.
6E
-0
1
1.
3E
+
00
4.
3E
+
00
b
I
2.
0E
-0
1
6.
8E
-0
1
1.
4E
+
00
3.
0E
+
00
P
u
2.
2E
-0
7
4.
1E
-0
4
3.
0E
-0
3
3.
0E
-0
3
R
a
1.
1E
-0
3
3.
0E
-0
2
6.
0E
-0
2
2.
1E
-0
1
S
b
1.
8E
-0
4
1.
9E
-0
4
4.
3E
-0
4
S
r
1.
7E
+
01
4.
2E
+
01
7.
6E
+
01
6.
1E
-0
1
T
c
1.
0E
+
00
1.
4E
+
00
3.
1E
+
00
T
h
3.
1E
-0
6
2.
9E
-0
4
1.
6E
-0
3
1.
0E
-0
3
U
1.
9E
-0
5
1.
7E
-0
3
4.
1E
-0
3
1.
0E
-0
3
Z
n
3.
3E
+
00
7.
0E
+
00
1.
0E
-0
2
Z
r
9.
1E
-0
3
1.
4E
-0
3
3.
5E
-0
3
a T
he
s
ha
de
d
ce
ll
in
di
ca
te
s
th
is
v
al
ue
is
u
se
d
as
th
e
de
fa
ul
t l
um
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
in
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
o
f t
he
g
ra
de
d
ap
pr
oa
ch
.
B
la
nk
c
el
ls
in
di
ca
te
d
at
a
w
as
u
na
va
ila
bl
e.
b
T
he
H
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
w
as
s
et
a
t a
d
ef
au
lt
of
1
.0
fo
r
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
of
th
e
ge
ne
ric
B
C
G
.
M
3-
45
D
O
E
-S
T
D
-1
15
3-
20
02
T
ab
le
3
.2
D
A
C
om
pa
ris
on
o
f L
um
pe
d
P
ar
am
et
er
V
al
ue
s
D
et
er
m
in
ed
b
y
U
nc
er
ta
in
ty
A
na
ly
si
s
on
th
e
K
in
et
ic
/A
llo
m
et
ric
M
et
ho
d,
P
ro
du
ct
A
pp
ro
ac
h,
a
nd
E
m
pi
ric
al
D
at
a
(L
ite
ra
tu
re
V
al
ue
s)
: T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
to
W
at
er
a
E
le
m
en
t
C
al
cu
la
te
d
as
P
ro
d
u
ct
o
f
C
o
n
ce
n
tr
at
io
n
R
at
io
s
(C
R
)
A
n
im
al
t
o
W
at
er
V
al
u
e
K
in
et
ic
/A
llo
m
et
ri
c
M
et
h
o
d
E
m
p
ir
ic
al
ly
M
ea
su
re
d
L
u
m
p
ed
P
ar
am
et
er
50
th
P
er
ce
n
ti
le
95
th
P
er
ce
n
ti
le
A
m
Section 166
5.
6E
-0
3
8.
6E
-0
2
C
e
2.
4E
-0
3
8.
2E
-0
3
C
s
1.
1E
+
01
2.
0E
+
00
3.
4E
+
00
C
o
7.
9E
-0
1
7.
5E
-0
2
1.
3E
-0
1
E
u
9.
2E
-0
3
9.
7E
-0
2
H
1.
9E
+
00
1.
7E
+
01
b
I
2.
2E
+
00
3.
4E
+
00
5.
4E
+
00
P
u
1.
5E
-0
5
5.
6E
-0
3
9.
3E
-0
2
R
a
1.
8E
+
01
2.
4E
-0
1
4.
0E
-0
1
S
b
3.
0E
-0
3
5.
2E
-0
3
S
r
6.
4E
+
02
1.
8E
+
01
3.
1E
+
01
T
c
2.
7E
-0
1
8.
4E
-0
1
T
h
4.
6E
-0
3
4.
5E
-0
2
U
1.
9E
-0
4
3.
0E
-0
2
5.
0E
-0
2
1.
0E
-0
3
Z
n
3.
7E
+
00
2.
0E
+
01
1.
0E
-0
2
Z
r
9.
1E
-0
3
1.
8E
-0
2
3.
1E
-0
2
a T
he
s
ha
de
d
ce
ll
in
di
ca
te
s
th
is
v
al
ue
is
u
se
d
as
th
e
de
fa
ul
t l
um
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
in
th
e
ge
ne
ra
l s
cr
ee
ni
ng
p
ha
se
o
f t
he
g
ra
de
d
ap
pr
oa
ch
.
B
la
nk
c
el
ls
in
di
ca
te
da
ta
w
as
u
na
va
ila
bl
e.
b
T
he
H
lu
m
pe
d
pa
ra
m
et
er
v
al
ue
w
as
s
et
a
t a
d
ef
au
lt
of
1
.0
fo
r
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
of
th
e
ge
ne
ric
B
C
G
.
M
3-
46
DOE-STD-1153-2002
4 Default Parameters and Their Sources
The following sections describe the source of parameter values used in the derivation of BCGs
for aquatic animals, riparian animals, terrestrial plants, and terrestrial animals.
4.1 Bioaccumulation Factors (Bivs)
The Biv,aa,i values for aquatic animals were selected from across all sampled aquatic taxa and
include predatory fin fish, crustaceans, and other organisms. Typically the most limiting values
come from crustaceans or molluscs. The specific source of default values used for the general
screening phase of the graded approach for aquatic animal evaluations is shown in
Table 4.1. Table 4.2 provides the values used for the general screening phase in the
derivation of terrestrial plant BCGs.
M3-47
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
4
.1
D
ef
au
lt
B
io
ac
cu
m
ul
at
io
n
F
ac
to
rs
(
B
iv
s)
fo
r
A
qu
at
ic
A
ni
m
al
s
R
ad
io
n
u
cl
id
e
B
iv,
aa
,i
O
rg
an
is
m
to
W
at
er
(L
/k
g
)
fr
es
h
m
as
s
W
at
er
B
iv,
aa
,i
R
ef
er
en
ce
C
o
m
m
en
t
24
1 A
m
40
0
C
R
IT
R
V
al
ue
fo
r
fr
es
h
w
at
er
m
ol
lu
sc
s
ta
ke
n
fr
om
C
R
IT
bi
og
.d
at
(
ge
ne
ric
bi
oa
cc
um
ul
at
io
n:
2
00
0)
a
nd
c
on
ve
rt
ed
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
b
y
di
vi
di
ng
b
y
5
(a
n
ar
bi
tr
ar
y
dr
y
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t c
on
ve
rs
io
n)
.
C
on
ve
rs
at
io
n
w
ith
D
S
tr
en
ge
a
nd
B
N
ap
ie
r
in
di
ca
te
d
th
e
G
E
N
II
an
d
C
R
IT
R
v
al
ue
s
ar
e
dr
y-
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
.
14
4 C
e
90
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
13
5 C
s
22
00
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
v
al
ue
fo
r
cr
us
ta
ce
an
s,
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t,
fo
r
13
3 C
s,
13
4 C
s,
13
7 C
s.
13
7 C
s
22
00
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
v
al
ue
fo
r
cr
us
ta
ce
an
s,
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t,
fo
r
13
3 C
s,
13
4 C
s,
13
7 C
s.
60
C
o
20
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
15
4 E
u
60
0
G
E
N
II
V
al
ue
fo
r
fr
es
h
w
at
er
m
ol
lu
sc
s
ta
ke
n
fr
om
B
IO
A
C
1.
da
t (
ge
ne
ric
b
io
ac
cu
m
ul
at
io
n:
30
00
)
an
d
co
nv
er
te
d
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
b
y
di
vi
di
ng
b
y
5
(a
n
ar
bi
tr
ar
y
dr
y
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t c
on
Section 167
ve
rs
io
n)
.
C
on
ve
rs
at
io
n
w
ith
D
S
tr
en
ge
a
nd
B
N
ap
ie
r
in
di
ca
te
d
th
e
G
E
N
II
an
d
C
R
IT
R
v
al
ue
s
ar
e
dr
y-
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
.
15
5 E
u
60
0
G
E
N
II
V
al
ue
fo
r
fr
es
h
w
at
er
m
ol
lu
sc
s
ta
ke
n
fr
om
B
IO
A
C
1.
da
t (
ge
ne
ric
b
io
ac
cu
m
ul
at
io
n:
30
00
)
an
d
co
nv
er
te
d
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
b
y
di
vi
di
ng
b
y
5
(a
n
ar
bi
tr
ar
y
dr
y
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t c
on
ve
rs
io
n)
.
C
on
ve
rs
at
io
n
w
ith
D
S
tr
en
ge
a
nd
B
N
ap
ie
r
in
di
ca
te
d
th
e
G
E
N
II
an
d
C
R
IT
R
v
al
ue
s
ar
e
dr
y-
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
.
3 H
0.
2
C
R
IT
R
V
al
ue
fo
r
fr
es
h
w
at
er
m
ol
lu
sc
s
ta
ke
n
fr
om
C
R
IT
bi
og
.d
at
(
ge
ne
ric
bi
oa
cc
um
ul
at
io
n:
1
)
an
d
co
nv
er
te
d
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
b
y
di
vi
di
ng
b
y
5
(a
n
ar
bi
tr
ar
y
dr
y
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t c
on
ve
rs
io
n)
.
C
on
ve
rs
at
io
n
w
ith
D
S
tr
en
ge
a
nd
B
N
ap
ie
r
in
di
ca
te
d
th
e
G
E
N
II
an
d
C
R
IT
R
v
al
ue
s
ar
e
dr
y-
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
.
12
9 I
22
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
13
1 I
22
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
23
9 P
u
10
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
cr
us
ta
ce
an
s.
22
6 R
a
32
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
F
re
sh
w
at
er
g
am
m
ar
us
.
22
8 R
a
32
00
R
a-
22
6
F
re
sh
w
at
er
g
am
m
ar
us
.
12
5 S
b
10
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
fis
h.
90
S
r
32
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
99
T
c
78
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
fis
h.
23
2 T
h
80
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
fis
h.
23
3 U
10
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
23
4 U
10
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
23
5 U
10
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
23
8 U
10
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
fo
r
m
ol
lu
sc
s.
65
Z
n
17
00
0
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
s
fo
r
sn
ai
ls
.
95
Z
r
16
00
T
&
M
T
. 5
.4
1
M
ax
im
um
fr
es
h
w
ei
gh
t v
al
ue
s
fo
r
sn
ai
ls
.
M3-48
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
4
.2
D
ef
au
lt
B
io
ac
cu
m
ul
at
io
n
F
ac
to
rs
(
B
iv
s)
fo
r
T
er
re
st
ria
l P
la
nt
s
R
ad
io
n
u
cl
id
e
B
iv,
tp
,i,
P
la
n
t
to
S
o
il
B
q
/k
g
w
et
w
ei
g
h
t
to
B
q
/k
g
so
il
(d
ry
)
m
as
s
P
la
n
t
B
iv
,t
p
,i
R
ef
er
en
ce
,
B
q
/k
g
p
la
n
t
(w
et
w
ei
g
h
t)
p
er
B
q
/k
g
s
o
il
C
o
m
m
en
t
24
1 A
m
8.
0E
-0
3
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
42
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
gr
as
se
s.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 5
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
al
so
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
14
4 C
e
4.
0E
-0
2
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
on
ve
rt
ed
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
(
Section 168
0.
22
-
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
gr
as
se
s
in
a
so
il
w
ith
lo
w
p
H
c
on
te
nt
(
<
5.
5)
. C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 5
.5
13
5 C
s
1.
0E
+
01
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
(
42
.6
-
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
in
F
lo
rid
a
so
ils
w
ith
lo
w
K
c
on
te
nt
. C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
13
7 C
s
1.
0E
+
01
T
&
M
, T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
(
42
.6
-
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
in
F
lo
rid
a
so
ils
w
ith
lo
w
K
c
on
te
nt
. C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
60
C
o
2.
0E
-0
1
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 1
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
gr
as
se
s
in
hi
st
os
ol
s
oi
ls
. C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
15
4 E
u
4.
0E
-0
2
E
st
im
at
ed
fr
om
C
e
va
lu
e
by
K
A
H
15
5 E
u
4.
0E
-0
2
E
st
im
at
ed
fr
om
C
e
va
lu
e
by
K
A
H
3 H
1.
0E
+
00
N
U
R
E
G
1
.1
09
N
U
R
E
G
1
.1
09
a
nd
d
iv
id
ed
b
y
a
w
et
to
d
ry
c
on
ve
rs
io
n
va
lu
e
of
4.
5
12
9 I
4.
0E
-0
1
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 1
.8
4
(d
ry
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
13
1 I
4.
0E
-0
1
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 1
.8
4
(d
ry
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
23
9 P
u
1.
0E
-0
2
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
66
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
. C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
al
so
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
22
6 R
a
1.
0E
-0
1
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.4
9
(d
ry
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
M3-49
DOE-STD-1153-2002
T
ab
le
4
.2
(
C
o
n
ti
n
u
ed
)
D
ef
au
lt
B
io
ac
cu
m
ul
at
io
n
F
ac
to
rs
(
B
iv
s)
fo
r
T
er
re
st
ria
l P
la
nt
s
R
ad
io
n
u
cl
id
e
B
iv,
tp
,i,
P
la
n
t
to
S
o
il
B
q
/k
g
w
et
w
ei
g
h
t
to
B
q
/k
g
s
o
il
(d
ry
)
m
as
s
P
la
n
t
B
iv
,t
p
,i
R
ef
er
en
ce
,
B
q
/k
g
p
la
n
t
(w
et
w
ei
g
h
t)
p
er
B
q
/k
g
s
o
il
C
o
m
m
en
t
22
8 R
a
1.
0E
-0
1
T
&
M
, T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.4
9
(d
ry
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
12
5 S
b
1.
0E
-0
2
G
E
N
II
T
ak
en
fr
om
G
E
N
II
an
d
co
nv
er
te
d
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
b
y
di
vi
di
ng
by
5
(
an
a
rb
Section 169
itr
ar
y
w
et
to
d
ry
w
ei
gh
t c
on
ve
rs
io
n)
.
C
on
ve
rs
at
io
n
w
ith
D
S
tr
en
ge
a
nd
B
N
ap
ie
r
in
di
ca
te
d
th
e
G
E
N
II
an
d
C
R
IT
R
ftr
an
s
va
lu
es
a
re
o
n
a
dr
y-
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
.
90
S
r
4.
0E
+
00
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
on
ve
rt
ed
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
(
17
.3
-
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
in
a
so
il
w
ith
lo
w
C
a
co
nt
en
t.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f
4.
5
99
T
c
8.
0E
+
00
G
E
N
II
T
ak
en
fr
om
G
E
N
II
an
d
co
nv
er
te
d
to
w
et
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
b
y
di
vi
di
ng
by
5
(
an
a
rb
itr
ar
y
w
et
to
d
ry
w
ei
gh
t c
on
ve
rs
io
n)
.
C
on
ve
rs
at
io
n
w
ith
D
S
tr
en
ge
a
nd
B
N
ap
ie
r
in
di
ca
te
d
th
e
G
E
N
II
an
d
C
R
IT
R
ftr
an
s
va
lu
es
a
re
o
n
a
dr
y-
w
ei
gh
t b
as
is
.
23
2 T
h
1.
0E
-0
3
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
04
6
(d
ry
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
23
3 U
4.
0E
-0
3
T
&
M
T
5.
16
T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
17
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
23
4 U
4.
0E
-0
3
T
i&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
17
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
23
5 U
4.
0E
-0
3
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
17
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
23
8 U
4.
0E
-0
3
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
8
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.0
17
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
N
ot
e
th
is
a
ls
o
in
cl
ud
es
a
er
ia
l d
ep
os
iti
on
.
65
Z
n
3.
0E
-0
1
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 1
.5
(
dr
y
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
T
hi
s
va
lu
e
in
cl
ud
es
ex
te
rn
al
(
ae
ria
l)
de
po
si
tio
n
in
th
e
va
lu
e.
95
Z
r
3.
0E
-0
2
T
&
M
T
5.
16
, T
5
.1
7
C
al
cu
la
te
d
fr
om
a
C
R
v
al
ue
o
f 0
.1
3
(d
ry
w
t/d
ry
w
t)
fo
r
le
gu
m
es
.
C
on
ve
rt
ed
to
B
iv
u
si
ng
w
et
/d
ry
r
at
io
o
f 4
.5
.
M3-50
DOE-STD-1153-2002
4.2 Distribution Coefficients
Distribution coefficients describe the partitioning of a radionuclide between water and soil or
sediment. Denoted by the variable Kd, these parameters were used in the absence of water (or
sediment) data to estimate the missing radionuclide concentration data. Specific instructions on
the use of this parameter are provided in Module 3, Section 3.2.3.
M3-51
Section 170
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 4.3 Most Probable Kd Values for Use in Calculating BCGs for Sediment or Water for an
Aquatic System Evaluation in the Absence of Co-Located Water and Sediment
Data
Radionuclide
Kd,mp Most
Probable Values
L/kg (mL/g)
Reference
241Am 5.0E+03 Table 3.2, Till & Meyer, Median value for fresh water systems.
144Ce 1.0E+03 RESRAD, Table E.3 page 202, "Manual for Implementing
Residual Radioactive Material Guidelines Using RESRAD,
Version 5.0" ANL/EAD/LD-2
135Cs 5.0E+02 “”
137Cs 5.0E+02 “”
60Co 1.0E+03 “”
154Eu 5.0E+02 Table 3.2, Till & Meyer, Median value for fresh water systems.
155Eu 5.0E+02 “”
3H 1.0E-03 Estimated by Higley
129I 1.0E+01 Table 3.2, Till & Meyer, Median value for fresh water systems.
131I 1.0E+01 “”
239Pu 2.0E+03 Value taken from RESRAD, Table E.3 page 202, "Manual for
Implementing Residual Radioactive Material Guidelines Using
RESRAD, Version 5.0" ANL/EAD/LD-2.
226Ra 7.0E+01 “”
228Ra 7.0E+01 “”
125Sb 1.0E+00 “”
90Sr 3.0E+01 Value taken from RESRAD, Table E.3 page 202, "Manual for
Implementing Residual Radioactive Material Guidelines Using
RESRAD, Version 5.0" ANL/EAD/LD-2.
99Tc 5.0E+00 Table 3.2, Till & Meyer, Median value for fresh water systems.
232Th 6.0E+04 Value taken from RESRAD, Table E.3 page 202, "Manual for
Implementing Residual Radioactive Material Guidelines Using
RESRAD, Version 5.0" ANL/EAD/LD-2.
233U 5.0E+01 “”
234U 5.0E+01 “”
235U 5.0E+01 “”
238U 5.0E+01 “”
65Zn 2.0E+01 “”
95Zr 1.0E+03 “”
M3-52
DOE-STD-1153-2002
4.3 Coefficients Used in the Kinetic/Allometric Method
The following tables list the values of kinetic/allometric coefficients used in the derivation of
lumped parameters using the kinetic/allometric method.
Table 4.4 Source of Default f1 Values Used for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals
Radionuclide f1, (unitless) Comment
241Am 1.0E-03 ICRP 30 part 4 values for human and animal studies.
144Ce 3.0E-04 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
135Cs 1.0E+00 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
137Cs 1.0E+00 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
60Co 5.0E-02 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
154Eu 1.0E-03 ICRP 30 Part 3 values.
155Eu 1.0E-03 ICRP 30 Part 3 values.
3H 1.0E+00 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
129I 1.0E+00 ICRP 30 Part 1 values.
131I 1.0E+00 ICRP 30 Part 1 values.
239Pu 1.0E-03 ICRP 30 part 4 values for human and animal studies.
226Ra 2.0E-01 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
228Ra 2.0E-01 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
125Sb 1.0E-02 ICRP 30 part 3 values for human and animal studies.
90Sr 3.0E-01 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
99Tc 8.0E-01 ICRP 30 part 2 values for human and animal studies.
232Th 2.0E-04 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
233U 5.0E-02 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
234U 5.0E-02 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
235U 5.0E-02 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
238U 5.0E-02 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
65Zn 5.0E-01 ICRP 30 part 2 values for human and animal studies.
95Zr 2.0E-03 ICRP 30 part 1 values for human and animal studies.
M3-53
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 4.5 Source of Data Used in Estimating Biological Half-Times for Riparian and
Terrestrial Animals (see Equation 19, Section 3.4.1.2)
Radionuclide
α
(constant)
β
Section 171
(exponent) Reference
241Am 0.8 0.81 ICRP 30 Part 4
144Ce 1.4 0.8 ICRP 30 Part 1
135Cs 3.5 0.24 Whicker & Schultz
137Cs 3.5 0.24 Whicker & Schultz
60Co 2.6 0.24 Whicker & Schultz
154Eu 1.4 0.8 ICRP 30 Part 3
155Eu 1.4 0.8 ICRP 30 Part 3
3H 0.82 0.55 Whicker & Schultz
129I 6.8 0.13 Whicker & Schultz
131I 6.8 0.13 Whicker & Schultz
239Pu 0.8 0.81 ICRP 30 Part 4
226Ra 2 0.25 Estimated by KAH
228Ra 2 0.25 Estimated by KAH
125Sb 0.5 0.25 ICRP 30 Part 3
90Sr 107 0.26 Whicker & Schultz
99Tc 0.3 0.4 ICRP 30 Part 2
232Th 3.3 0.81 ICRP 30 Part 1
233U 0.8 0.28 ICRP 30 Part 1
234U 0.8 0.28 ICRP 30 Part 1
235U 0.8 0.28 ICRP 30 Part 1
238U 0.8 0.28 ICRP 30 Part 1
65Zn 100 0.25 ICRP 30 Part 2
95Zr 100 0.25 ICRP 30 Part 1
M3-54
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Table 4.6 Factors Used in Assessing the Relative Contribution to Internal Dose from Animal
Inhalation versus Ingestion
Radionuclide
PT/ITa
(Correction
Factor)
241Am 250
144Ce 16
135Cs 0.8
137Cs 0.8
60Co 7
154Eu 30
155Eu 30
3H 1
129I 0.7
131I 0.7
239Pu 4000
226Ra 3
228Ra 3
125Sb 3.5
90Sr 200
99Tc 5
232Th 750
233U 7000
234U 7000
235U 3500
238U 4000
65Zn 1
95Zr 10
a Based on ICRP 30, parts 1-3 and
Zach's (1985) analysis of the relative
contribution of inhalation to an
equivalent amount of soil ingestion
dose for animals.
M3-55
D
O
E
-S
T
D
-1
15
3-
20
02
T
ab
le
4
.7
A
llo
m
et
ric
E
qu
at
io
ns
a
nd
P
ar
am
et
er
V
al
ue
s
U
se
d
in
E
st
im
at
in
g
In
ta
ke
o
f R
ip
ar
ia
n
A
ni
m
al
O
rg
an
is
m
s
Pa
ra
m
et
er
Eq
ua
tio
n
D
es
cr
ip
tio
ns
Va
lu
e(
s)
R
ef
er
en
ce
W
Bo
dy
m
as
s
(g
)
88
00
de
fa
ul
t f
or
ra
cc
oo
n
or
ri
ve
r o
tte
r
r
0.
75
70
M
dc
a
r
=
Fo
od
in
ta
ke
ra
te
(g
/d
)
32
5.
13
77
22
3
W
&S
, V
ol
. I
I,
p.
4
3,
e
qu
at
io
n
78
a:
ra
tio
o
f a
ct
iv
e
to
b
as
al
m
et
ab
ol
ic
ra
te
2
70
: c
on
st
an
t
70
d:
fr
ac
tio
n
of
e
ne
rg
y
in
ge
st
ed
th
at
is
a
ss
im
ila
te
d
or
o
xi
di
ze
d
0.
44
c:
c
al
or
ic
v
al
ue
o
f f
oo
d,
k
ca
l/g
5
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
8.
8
0.
75
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
75
r se
di
m
en
t
r
rs
ed
im
en
t
=
0.
1
Se
di
m
en
t I
nt
ak
e
R
at
e
(g
/d
)
32
.5
13
77
22
3
EP
A
W
ild
lif
e
Ex
po
su
re
F
ac
to
r
H
an
db
oo
k,
V
ol
. 1
, p
. 4
-2
2
r:
fo
od
in
ta
ke
ra
te
, g
/d
32
5.
13
77
22
3
0.
1:
fr
ac
tio
n
of
s
ed
im
en
t i
n
di
et
, e
xp
re
ss
ed
a
s
%
o
f f
oo
d
di
et
, d
ry
0.
1
T I
s
0.
30
,m
ax
1.
02
M
T ls
=
M
ax
im
um
L
ife
sp
an
1.
95
8
C
al
de
r,
p.
3
16
, T
ab
le
1
1-
5
1.
02
: c
on
st
an
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
1.
02
se
e
ab
ov
e
eq
ua
tio
n,
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
8.
8
0.
30
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
30
r b
0.
76
0.
48
1M
r b
=
In
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(m
3 /d
)
2.
51
16
08
28
6
Pe
dl
ey
, p
. 1
5,
T
ab
le
V
.,
ad
ju
st
ed
to
p
ro
vi
de
u
ni
ts
o
f
m
3 /d
0.
48
1:
c
on
st
an
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
to
g
iv
e
m
3 /d
0.
48
1
se
e
ab
ov
e
eq
ua
tio
n,
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
8.
8
0.
76
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
0.
76
r i
nh
al
at
io
n
b
in
ha
la
ti
on
xr
r
=
Se
di
m
en
t i
nh
al
at
io
n
ra
te
(g
/d
)
0.
00
02
51
16
1
de
riv
ed
x:
a
irb
or
ne
d
us
t l
oa
di
ng
, g
/m
3
0.
00
01
r b:
in
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(s
ee
a
bo
ve
)
2.
51
16
08
28
6
Section 172
I w
0.
90
0.
09
9
M
I w
=
W
at
er
c
on
su
m
pt
io
n
ra
te
(L
/d
)
0.
70
09
21
85
2
EP
A
W
ild
lif
e
Ex
po
su
re
F
ac
to
r
H
an
db
oo
k,
V
ol
. 1
, p
. 3
-1
0,
eq
ua
tio
n
3-
17
0.
09
9:
c
on
st
an
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
0.
09
9
se
e
ab
ov
e
eq
ua
tio
n,
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
8.
8
0.
9:
e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
9
M
3-
56
az3
az3
D
O
E
-S
T
D
-1
15
3-
20
02
T
ab
le
4
.8
A
llo
m
et
ric
E
qu
at
io
ns
a
nd
P
ar
am
et
er
V
al
ue
s
us
ed
in
E
st
im
at
in
g
In
ta
ke
o
f T
er
re
st
ria
l A
ni
m
al
O
rg
an
is
m
s
76.0
48
1
.0
M
r b
=
b
in
ha
la
ti
on
xr
r
=
75.0
70
M
dc
a
r
=
r
r
oi
l
s
1.
0
=
3.0
,
m
ax
,
02.1
M
T ls
=
90.0
09
9
.0
M
I w
=
Pa
ra
m
et
er
Eq
ua
tio
n
D
es
cr
ip
tio
ns
Va
lu
e(
s)
R
ef
er
en
ce
W
Bo
dy
m
as
s
(g
)
22
de
fa
ul
t f
or
d
ee
r m
ou
se
r
Fo
od
in
ta
ke
ra
te
(g
/d
)
3.
63
51
50
24
5
W
&S
, V
ol
. I
I,
p.
4
3,
eq
ua
tio
n
78
a:
ra
tio
o
f a
ct
iv
e
to
b
as
al
m
et
ab
ol
ic
ra
te
2
70
: c
on
st
an
t
70
d:
fr
ac
tio
n
of
e
ne
rg
y
in
ge
st
ed
th
at
is
a
ss
im
ila
te
d
or
o
xi
di
ze
d
0.
44
c:
c
al
or
ic
v
al
ue
o
f f
oo
d,
k
ca
l/g
5
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
(=
W
*0
.0
01
)
0.
02
2
0.
75
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
75
r se
di
m
en
t
So
il
In
ta
ke
R
at
e
(g
/d
)
0.
36
35
15
02
5
EP
A
W
ild
lif
e
Ex
po
su
re
Fa
ct
or
H
an
db
oo
k,
V
ol
. 1
, p
.
4-
22
r:
fo
od
in
ta
ke
ra
te
, g
/d
3.
63
51
50
24
5
0.
1:
fr
ac
tio
n
of
s
ed
im
en
t i
n
di
et
, e
xp
re
ss
ed
a
s
%
o
f f
oo
d
di
et
, d
ry
0.
1
T I
s
M
ax
im
um
L
ife
sp
an
.3
2
C
al
de
r,
p.
3
16
, T
ab
le
1
1-
5
1.
02
: c
on
st
an
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
1.
02
se
e
ab
ov
e
eq
ua
tio
n,
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
0.
02
2
0.
30
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
0.
30
r b
In
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(m
3 /d
)
0.
02
64
47
60
3
Pe
dl
ey
, p
. 1
5,
T
ab
le
V
.,
ad
ju
st
ed
to
p
ro
vi
de
u
ni
ts
o
f
m
3 /d
0.
48
1:
c
on
st
an
t i
n
ca
lc
ul
at
io
n
to
g
iv
e
m
3 /d
0.
48
1
se
e
ab
ov
e
eq
ua
tio
n,
M
: b
od
y
m
as
s
in
k
g
0.
02
2
0.
76
: e
xp
on
en
t i
n
eq
ua
tio
n
0.
76
r in
ha
la
tio
n
So
il
in
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(g
/d
)
2.
64
47
6E
-0
6
de
riv
ed
x:
a
irb
or
ne
d
us
t l
oa
di
ng
, g
/m
3
0.
00
01
r b:
in
ha
la
tio
n
ra
te
(s
ee
a
bo
ve
)
0.
02
64
47
60
3
I w
W
at
er
c
on
su
m
pt
io
n
ra
te
(L
/d
)
0.
00
31
90
18
3
EP
A
W
ild
lif
e
Ex
po
su
re
Fa
ct
or
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
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M3-58
DOE-STD-1153-2002
Concluding Material
Review Activity: Preparing Activity:
DOE Programs Operations and Field Offices DOE-EH-412
EH
EM
SC
DP
EE
FE
GC
IG
NE
NN
PO
RW
AL
CH
ID
NV
OR
RL
SR
BPO
CAO
FETC-PA
FETC-WV
OH
OK
RF
Project Number:
ENVR-0011
Laboratories
ANL
INEEL
ORNL
PNNL
SNL
SREL
AMES
ARG
BHG
BNL
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FNAL
LANL
LBNL
LLNL
NBL
SLAC
TJAF
Area Offices
Section 173
Rocky Flats Area Office Grand Junction Office
West Valley Area Office Kirtland Area Office
Amarillo Area Office Kansas City Area Office
Fernald Area Office Miamisburg Area Office
Golden Field Office Western Area Power Administration
DOE-STD-1153-2002
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DOE-STD-1153-2002
Foreword
Table of Contents
Acknowledgments
Scope, Purpose and Organization
References
Definitions
Acronyms and Abbreviations
Module 1 Principles and Application
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose
1.2 Background
2 Overview of the DOE Graded Approach
2.1 Key Features of the Graded Approach
2.2 Key Points Regarding Methods Derivation
2.3 Relationship of the Graded Approach to Ecological Risk Assessment
3 Application Considerations
3.1 Evaluating Doses to Individual Organisms
3.2 Evaluating Doses to Aquatic Plants
3.3 Experimental Facilities
3.4 Hazardous Chemicals and Industrial Hazards
3.5 Frequency of Conducting Evaluations
4 Step-by-Step Implementation of the Graded Approach
4.1 Parameter Values that Can be Modified in the Graded Approach
4.2 Use of the RAD-BCG Calculator
4.3 The Biota Dose Assessment Committee
5 Data Assembly Phase
5.1 Step 1: Consider the Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure
5.2 Step 2: Define Your Area of Evaluation
5.3 Step 3: Assemble and Organize Data on Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media
6 General Screening Phase
6.1 Step 1:. Compare Data on Radionuclide Concentrations in Environmental Media with Generic BCGs Contained in Look-up Tables
7 Analysis Phase
7.1 Analysis Phase -Site-Specific Screening
7.2 Analysis Phase -Site-Specific Analysis
7.3. Analysis Phase -Conducting a Site-Specific Biota Dose Assessment
8 Documenting Your Biota Dose Evaluation Results.
9 Example Applications of the Graded Approach
9.1 Generic Example of an Aquatic System Evaluation
MODULE 2 Detailed Guidance
1. The Graded Approach, Ecological Risk Assessment, and Guidance on Their Implementation in Evaluating Radiation Doses to Biota
1.1 Purpose of this Section
1.2 Relationship of the Graded Approach and the Ecological Risk Assessment (ERA) Framework
1.3 Principal and Alternative Uses of the Graded Approach
1.4 Technical Issues to be Considered when Evaluating Radiation as a Stressor to the Environment
1.5 Analysis
1.6 Risk Characterization
2 Guidance on Sources, Receptors, and Routes of Exposure
2.1 General Considerations for Identifying Sources, Receptors, and Exposure Pathways
2.2 Rationale for the Active Air Pathway as a Minor Source of Exposure
2.3 Aquatic Plants
2.4 Direct Measurement of Radiation Fields
3 Guidance on Spatial and Temporal Averaging Regarding Application of Biota Dose Limits and Mean Radionuclide Concentrations
3.1 Use of Time Averaging in Applying Dose Limits for Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota
3.2 Guidance on Spatial Variability in Applying Dose Limits
3.3 Guidance on Estimating Mean Values
4 Guidance for Defining the Evaluation Area
4.1 General Considerations
4.2 Step-by-Step Guidance
5 Guidance on Soil Sampling Relative to Plant Rooting Depths
5.1 Overview of the Problem
5.2 Plant Rooting Depths
5.3 Consider the Need for Site-Specific Plant Uptake Factors
5.4 Survey Design Considerations
6. Guidance on Biota Sampling to Support Implementation of the Graded Approach
6.1 An Important Note about Biota Sampling and Temporal Variation
6.2 General Planning Considerations
6.3 Sampling Design and Statistical Methods
6.4 Biota Sampling Methods
Section 174
7 Guidance on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles.
7.1 Statement of Issue
7.2 Previous Assumptions About Radiation Weighting Factor
7.3 Radiation Effects of Concern in Biota
7.4 Data on Deterministic RBEs for High-LET Radiations
7.5 Recommendations on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles
7.6 Guidance on Radiation Weighting Factor for Alpha Particles
8. Guidance on the Applicability of the Graded Approach for Evaluating Dose to Individual Organisms
8.1 Considerations on the Meaning of "Individual" Organism
8.2 Applicability of Methods and Models Contained in the DOE Graded Approach to Evaluations of Individual Organisms
8.3 Applicability of Biota Dose Limits to Protection of Individual Organisms
8.4 Use of the DOE Graded Approach for Evaluating Dose to Individual Organisms: Application Considerations
8.5 Consideration of Deterministic vs. Stochastic Effects
MODULE 3 Methods Derivation
1 Introduction and Basis for the Approach
1.1 Pathways, Media Types, and Organism Types Addressed
1.2 Selection of Target Radionuclides
1.3 Overview of the Technical Approach for Deriving the BCGs
1.4 Selection of the Most Limiting BCGs for Use in General Screening
2 Dose Coefficients
2.1 External Dose Coefficients
2.2 Internal Dose Coefficients
3 Equations and Models for Calculating Dose to Biota and Deriving BCGs
3.1 An Important Note on Estimating Internal Tissue Concentrations for Use in Dose Equations: The Lumped Parameter
3.2 Equations and Models for Aquatic Systems
3.3 Equations and Models for Terrestrial Systems
3.4 Alternatives to Lumped Parameters for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals: The Kinetic/Allometric Method
3.5 Selection of Lumped Parameters for Riparian and Terrestrial Animals
4 Default Parameters and Their Sources.
4.1 Bioaccumulation Factors (Bs)
4.2 Distribution Coefficients
4.3 Coefficients Used in the Kinetic/Allometric Method
Concluding Material.