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Radiation Safety Radiation Safety TrainingTraining
Radiation Safety Radiation Safety TrainingTraining
Short course atShort course at
MSUMMSUMRadiation Safety OfficerRadiation Safety Officer
Joseph J ProvostJoseph J Provost
IntroductionIntroduction
Radiation and radioactive Radiation and radioactive materials can be valuable tools materials can be valuable tools in researchin research
There are 3 labs using There are 3 labs using radioactive isotopes at MSUMradioactive isotopes at MSUM
Radioactive materials are used in Radioactive materials are used in a variety of disciplines, ranging a variety of disciplines, ranging from the biological sciences to from the biological sciences to physics… even art!physics… even art!
Radiation and YouRadiation and You Radiation and radioactive materials are safe if Radiation and radioactive materials are safe if
used properlyused properly Background radiationBackground radiation is the ionizing radiation is the ionizing radiation
emitted from a variety of natural and artificial emitted from a variety of natural and artificial radiation sourcesradiation sources
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Your exposure can Your exposure can never realistically be never realistically be zero, because zero, because background radiation is background radiation is always presentalways present
DecayDecay
Radiation from Radiation from radioactive materials radioactive materials is the result of is the result of radioactive decayradioactive decay. . An atom with an An atom with an unstable nucleus will unstable nucleus will “decay” until it “decay” until it becomes a stable becomes a stable atom, emitting atom, emitting radiation as it radiation as it decays.decays.
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IntroductionIntroduction
Radioactivity comes from the atomic Radioactivity comes from the atomic nucleus, nucleus, notnot from the electron from the electron cloud.cloud.
Without instruments, radioactivity Without instruments, radioactivity cannot be seen, felt, smelled, cannot be seen, felt, smelled, tasted, or detected by human beings.tasted, or detected by human beings.
For this reason, it went For this reason, it went undiscovered until this century.undiscovered until this century.
Where Does It Come From?Where Does It Come From?
Radiation results from an unstable nucleusRadiation results from an unstable nucleus
e- e-
H-3
e-
e-He-3
This is called radioactive decay
Who found it?Who found it?
18961896 Henri Becquerel Henri Becquerel discovered natural discovered natural radiation - Uranium energy captured by radiation - Uranium energy captured by phosphorus and X-Ray filmphosphorus and X-Ray film
Marie Curie - Marie Curie - student of Henri, student of Henri, determined the emissions were radiation determined the emissions were radiation and found the radioactive element - and found the radioactive element - Radium and Polonium. First person to Radium and Polonium. First person to win two Nobel Prizes in two fields (1903 win two Nobel Prizes in two fields (1903 and 1911) one with HB and one with her and 1911) one with HB and one with her husbandhusband
Irene Joliot-Curie - Irene Joliot-Curie - induction of induction of radioactive material Ni, P and Si (1935 radioactive material Ni, P and Si (1935 Nobel Prize)Nobel Prize)
DecayDecay
For example, the H-3 (also known as For example, the H-3 (also known as tritium) nucleus consists of one tritium) nucleus consists of one proton and two neutrons. When proton and two neutrons. When undergoing radioactive decay, one undergoing radioactive decay, one of the tritium neutrons emits an of the tritium neutrons emits an electron and becomes a proton electron and becomes a proton resulting in He-3, which has three resulting in He-3, which has three protons and one neutron.protons and one neutron.ee--
33HH 33HeHe
Sometimes a substance will Sometimes a substance will progress through several progress through several radioactive decays until it radioactive decays until it reaches a stable state.reaches a stable state.
Radiation results Radiation results from an unstable from an unstable nucleusnucleus
e-e-
H-3 He-3
Where Does it Come From?Where Does it Come From?
This is called radioactive decayThis is called radioactive decay
Nuclear ArithmeticNuclear Arithmetic
Protons andand neutrons are collectively are collectively called called nucleonsnucleons
wherewhere
1. Number of neutrons = A-Z1. Number of neutrons = A-Z
2. The 2. The nucleon number of an isotope is written as of an isotope is written as a suffix to the name ex. a suffix to the name ex. Hydrogen - 2Hydrogen - 2
X = chemical symbol
A = nucleon number (sum of p and n)
Z = atomic number (# of p)
X = chemical symbol
A = nucleon number (sum of p and n)
Z = atomic number (# of p) ZAX
Transmutation
Not all nuclei are radioactiveNot all nuclei are radioactive OF ALL OF THESE ARE ISOTOPES, OF ALL OF THESE ARE ISOTOPES,
ONLY ONE IS RADIOACTIVE! ONLY ONE IS RADIOACTIVE!
C12 6 C613 C6
14
StableStable RadioactiveRadioactive
Stable
Transmutation
Not all nuclei are radioactive.Not all nuclei are radioactive. Some nuclei are stable Some nuclei are stable while other are radioactive; those that are radioactive while other are radioactive; those that are radioactive are sometimes referred to as are sometimes referred to as RADIOISOTOPESRADIOISOTOPES..
C12 6 C613 C6
14
StableStable RadioactiveRadioactive
Stable
Radioactive DecayRadioactive Decay
Radioactive decay Radioactive decay is a random eventis a random event
Half life is the Half life is the time it takes for time it takes for half of the half of the nuclei is a nuclei is a substance to substance to undergo undergo radioactive decayradioactive decay Time
# of unstable nuclei
long half life
short half life
Half LifeHalf Life
Radioactive Radioactive decay occurs decay occurs randomlyrandomly, that , that is, it is not is, it is not known whenknown when
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individual atoms will undergo decay. individual atoms will undergo decay. However, although the decay of However, although the decay of individual atoms is random, a individual atoms is random, a radioactive substance, consisting of radioactive substance, consisting of many atoms, will decay according to many atoms, will decay according to a known pattern.a known pattern.
A property often used to A property often used to describe a radioactive substance describe a radioactive substance is known as the is known as the half-life.half-life.
The half life is the time it The half life is the time it takes for half of the unstable takes for half of the unstable nuclei in the radioactive nuclei in the radioactive substance to undergo radioactive substance to undergo radioactive decay.decay.
For example, the half-life of
P-32 is 14.3 days. If you start with 100 microcuries(the If you start with 100 microcuries(the unit of the microcurie will be unit of the microcurie will be explained later) of P-32 , after 14.3 explained later) of P-32 , after 14.3 days there would be 50 microcuries days there would be 50 microcuries left.left.
After another 14.3 days there would be After another 14.3 days there would be 25 microcuries left.25 microcuries left.
After 10 half-lives, only about After 10 half-lives, only about 1/1000th (actually 1/210, which is 1/1000th (actually 1/210, which is 1/1024) of the original will be left.1/1024) of the original will be left.
There is a wide range of There is a wide range of half-lives for isotopes;The half-lives for isotopes;The half-life of P-32 is only half-life of P-32 is only 14.3 days whereas the half-14.3 days whereas the half-life of C-14 is 5730 life of C-14 is 5730 yearsyears
Radioactive decay Equation
Activity(A)Activity(A):number of nuclei (N) that :number of nuclei (N) that decay per unit of timedecay per unit of time
A(t) = dN/dt = -A(t) = dN/dt = -N(t)N(t) A(t) = A A(t) = AOOee--tt
is called the decay constant
initial activity
time(t)
# of undecayed nuclei
(N)
AO
Half-life & the Decay Constant
Half-life (tHalf-life (t1/21/2) is related ) is related
to the constant to the constant according to this according to this equation:equation:tt1/21/2= (ln 2)/= (ln 2)/
AAOO
Timett1/21/2 tt1/21/2
1/2 A1/2 AOO
1/2 A1/2 AOOA
ctiv
ity
Radioactive Emissions
Alpha particlesAlpha particles
Beta particlesBeta particles
Radioactive Emissions
Alpha particlesAlpha particles contain two protons contain two protons and two neutrons (a helium nucleus). and two neutrons (a helium nucleus). They have an atomic number of 2.They have an atomic number of 2.
Properties-Alpha Particles
consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons consist of 2 protons and 2 neutrons have +2 chargehave +2 charge can only travel up to a few centimeters in can only travel up to a few centimeters in
airair are stopped by the protective layer of your are stopped by the protective layer of your
skinskin+2
Alpha emittersAlpha emitters
We do not currently use We do not currently use isotopes which emit alpha isotopes which emit alpha particles particles
Generally these are elements Generally these are elements which are very heavy which are very heavy Atomic Number greater than 83Atomic Number greater than 83 Thorium, radon and so on.Thorium, radon and so on.
Radioactive Emissions
Alpha particlesAlpha particles contain two protons contain two protons and two neutrons (a helium nucleus). and two neutrons (a helium nucleus). They have an atomic number of 2.They have an atomic number of 2.
Beta particlesBeta particles
Radioactive Emissions
Alpha particlesAlpha particles contain two protons contain two protons and two neutrons (a helium nucleus). and two neutrons (a helium nucleus). They have an atomic number of 2.They have an atomic number of 2.
Beta particlesBeta particles are simply electrons. are simply electrons. Beta radiation is a stream of electronsBeta radiation is a stream of electrons..
Properties - Beta Particles
Beta particles:Beta particles: are either an electron (-1 charge) or positron are either an electron (-1 charge) or positron
(+1 charge)(+1 charge) travel about 12 feet per MeV in airtravel about 12 feet per MeV in air Higher energy betas should be shielded Higher energy betas should be shielded
with low Z materials such as with low Z materials such as Plexiglas/Lucite or woodPlexiglas/Lucite or wood
Typical beta isotopesTypical beta isotopes
We use several ß emitters at MSU. These We use several ß emitters at MSU. These can be classified as low or high energy can be classified as low or high energy particlesparticles
IsotopeEnergy
MeV 1/2 Life3H 0.018 12.3 years14C 0.155 5570 years
32P 1.71 14.2 days33P 0.215 25 Days35S 0.167 87.1 days
Radioactive EmissionsRadioactive Emissions
Gamma raysGamma rays
Positron emissionPositron emission
Radioactive EmissionsRadioactive Emissions
Gamma raysGamma rays are a high energy form of are a high energy form of electromagnetic radiation. They are similar electromagnetic radiation. They are similar to light waves but have shorter wavelengths to light waves but have shorter wavelengths and are more energetic.and are more energetic.
Positron emissionPositron emission
Properties - Gamma Rays
Gamma rays:Gamma rays: are photons that originate from the nucleus are photons that originate from the nucleus
of the atomof the atom do not carry a chargedo not carry a charge can cause ionization when they interact can cause ionization when they interact should be shielded with high Z materials, should be shielded with high Z materials,
such as lead, if appropriatesuch as lead, if appropriate
Some possible gamma emittersSome possible gamma emitters 2222NaNa 3636ClCl 125125II 131131 I I
Radioactive EmissionsRadioactive Emissions
Gamma rays Gamma rays are a high energy form of are a high energy form of electromagnetic radiation. They are similar electromagnetic radiation. They are similar to light waves but have shorter wavelengths to light waves but have shorter wavelengths and are more energetic.and are more energetic.
Positron emissionPositron emission equal in mass to beta equal in mass to beta particles but opposite in chargeparticles but opposite in charge
Radiation particlesRadiation particles
Properties - Characteristic X-rays
CharacteristicCharacteristic X-raysX-rays are generated when are generated when electrons fall from higher energy to lower electrons fall from higher energy to lower energy electron shellsenergy electron shells
+ +
e-
e-
e-
e-
e-
e-
X
Properties - Bremsstrahlung X-rays
Bremsstrahlung X-raysBremsstrahlung X-rays are created when are created when electrons are slowed down in the field of a electrons are slowed down in the field of a nucleus nucleus
+
e-
e-
X
Penetrating PowerPenetrating Power
The penetrating power of radiation varies in part The penetrating power of radiation varies in part due to their masses and their chargesdue to their masses and their charges
Protection from radiation - distance and shieldingProtection from radiation - distance and shielding
Penetrating PowerPenetrating Power
AlphaAlpha - outside of body little damage, not able to - outside of body little damage, not able to penetrate skin. Inside of the body causes much penetrate skin. Inside of the body causes much damage to tissues cells DNA and Proteinsdamage to tissues cells DNA and Proteins
BetaBeta - some harm but much less than alpha can go - some harm but much less than alpha can go through skinthrough skin
GammaGamma - is the most - is the most harmful easily penetrates harmful easily penetrates skin and damages DNA skin and damages DNA and Cells as it “rips” and Cells as it “rips” throughthrough
ExposureExposure
Elements tend to Elements tend to concentrate in concentrate in certain parts of certain parts of the bodythe body
I - ThyroidI - Thyroid S - SkinS - Skin P - BoneP - Bone H - ThroughoutH - Throughout
Radiation UnitsRadiation Units
There are specific units for the amount of There are specific units for the amount of radiation you receive in a given time and radiation you receive in a given time and for the total amount of exposure you are for the total amount of exposure you are subjected to.subjected to.
Measuring radioactivity rates -What Is a Curie?
This is the amount of radioactivity in a sample This is the amount of radioactivity in a sample (the amount of radioactivity = activity)(the amount of radioactivity = activity)
A commonly-used unit for measuring activity is A commonly-used unit for measuring activity is the curie(Ci)the curie(Ci)
1 curie is equal to 2.2 x 101 curie is equal to 2.2 x 101212 disintegrations per disintegrations per minute (dpm)minute (dpm)
Typical activities found in a university lab are in Typical activities found in a university lab are in the microcurie (the microcurie (Ci) to millicurie (mCi) rangeCi) to millicurie (mCi) range
Measuring radioactivity rates- What is a Becquerel (Bq)Measuring radioactivity rates- What is a Becquerel (Bq)
The amount of radioactive material which The amount of radioactive material which decays at a rate of one disintegratration per decays at a rate of one disintegratration per second (dps)second (dps)
This is the SI unit of radioactive material or This is the SI unit of radioactive material or activityactivity
CPM & DPM
CPM is the counts per minute that a detector CPM is the counts per minute that a detector “sees”“sees”
DPM are the actual disintegrations (release of DPM are the actual disintegrations (release of energy) by a radioactive sample [disintegrations energy) by a radioactive sample [disintegrations per minute]per minute]
Since detectors aren’t 100% efficient...Since detectors aren’t 100% efficient...
DPM = CPM / Detector EfficiencyDPM = CPM / Detector Efficiency(the detector efficiency for the specific (the detector efficiency for the specific
radioisotope, that is)radioisotope, that is)
Radiation Dose vs RateRadiation Dose vs Rate
Dose is the amount of radiation you were actually Dose is the amount of radiation you were actually exposed to:exposed to:
RoentogenRoentogen - This can only be used to describe an - This can only be used to describe an amount of gamma and X-rays, and only in air. amount of gamma and X-rays, and only in air. One roentgen is equal to depositing in dry air One roentgen is equal to depositing in dry air enough energy to cause 2.58E-4 coulombs per kg. enough energy to cause 2.58E-4 coulombs per kg. It is a measure of the ionizations of the molecules It is a measure of the ionizations of the molecules in a mass of air. (NOT in a mass of air. (NOT aa or or bb particles) particles)
What is a REM?
REMREM - The most common used unit for measuring - The most common used unit for measuring radiation dose in people is the remradiation dose in people is the rem
REM = REM = Roentgen equivalent for manRoentgen equivalent for man, a roentgen , a roentgen (an international unit of X- or gamma-radiation) (an international unit of X- or gamma-radiation) adjusted for the atomic makeup of the human bodyadjusted for the atomic makeup of the human body
Since the rem is a relatively large unit, it is more Since the rem is a relatively large unit, it is more common to use the millirem (mrem), which is common to use the millirem (mrem), which is 1/1000th of a rem1/1000th of a rem
Rem is a Dose equilaventRem is a Dose equilavent
The Dose equivalent is the product of the absorbed The Dose equivalent is the product of the absorbed dose in tissue times a quality factordose in tissue times a quality factor
This relates the absorbed dose in human tissue to This relates the absorbed dose in human tissue to the effective biological damage of the radiation. the effective biological damage of the radiation.
Not all radiation has the same biological effect, Not all radiation has the same biological effect, even for the same amount of absorbed dose.even for the same amount of absorbed dose.
Rem = Quality factor x dose in radsRem = Quality factor x dose in rads
SievertSievert is the SI unit of dose equivalent is the SI unit of dose equivalent
Quality factorsQuality factors
X and gamma raysX and gamma rays 11
Beta particlesBeta particles 11
Thermal NeutronsThermal Neutrons 22
Fast NeutronsFast Neutrons 1010
ProtonsProtons 1010
Alpha particlesAlpha particles 2020
Other “Dose” UnitsOther “Dose” Units
RadRad (Radiation Absorbed Dose)- this is the (Radiation Absorbed Dose)- this is the amount of exposure to any type of material amount of exposure to any type of material from any type of radiation measured in from any type of radiation measured in Joules/kg tissueJoules/kg tissue
TheThe GrayGray is the absorbed dose that is the absorbed dose that corresponds to the transfer of 1 joule to 1 kg corresponds to the transfer of 1 joule to 1 kg of material (SI unit). Does not relate to of material (SI unit). Does not relate to biological effects.biological effects.
“Background” Radiation
Natural sourcesNatural sources = 300 mrem = 300 mrem MedicalMedical = 53 m = 53 m OccupationalOccupational = 0.9 mrem = 0.9 mrem Nuclear Fuel Nuclear Fuel = 0.05 = 0.05 mremmrem
Consumer productsConsumer products = 5-13 mrem = 5-13 mrem Misc. environmentalMisc. environmental = 0.06 mrem = 0.06 mrem
From NCRP Report 93
Occupational Radiation Exposure Limits
Whole body = 5,000 mrem/yearWhole body = 5,000 mrem/year Extremities = 50,000 mrem/yearExtremities = 50,000 mrem/year Eye = 15,000 mrem/yearEye = 15,000 mrem/year Fetus = 500 mrem/gestation period (declared Fetus = 500 mrem/gestation period (declared
pregnancy)pregnancy) Minors = 500 mrem/yearMinors = 500 mrem/year Rad workers = 100 mrem/year over Rad workers = 100 mrem/year over
backgroundbackground
ReviewReview
Rate - of disintegrationRate - of disintegration DPMDPM CurieCurie Becquerel (SI)Becquerel (SI) NOT CPMNOT CPM
Dose - amount of radiation Dose - amount of radiation exposedexposed
RoentogenRoentogen RadRad Gray (SI)Gray (SI) REM (equivalent)REM (equivalent) Sievert (SI equivalent)Sievert (SI equivalent)
Declared Pregnant Woman
A woman who has A woman who has voluntarily informed the voluntarily informed the
Radiation Safety Section Radiation Safety Section in in writing writing of her pregnancy of her pregnancy
and estimated date of and estimated date of conception conception
Relative Risk -A Comparison
Action Min. lifeexpectancy lost
buying a small car 7000
coast to coast drive 1000
smoking a cigarette 10
1 mrem of radiation 1.5
Examples of relative risk adapted from Cohen and Lee, “A Catalogue of Risks,” Health Physics, vol. 36, June 1979.
Reduction in life spanReduction in life span
ActivityActivity Avg. ReductionAvg. Reduction
Living in a city Vs countryLiving in a city Vs country 5 years5 years
Single Vs. MarriedSingle Vs. Married 5 years5 years
Male Vs femaleMale Vs female 3 years3 years
RadiationRadiation
CosmicCosmic 25 days25 days
MedicalMedical 30 days30 days
TerrestrialTerrestrial 50 - 100 days50 - 100 days
World falloutWorld fallout 1 day1 day
Biological effectsBiological effects
Two types stochastic and non-stochasticTwo types stochastic and non-stochastic
Stochastic effectsStochastic effects Stochastic effects are associated with long-term, low-level Stochastic effects are associated with long-term, low-level
(chronic) exposure to radiation.(chronic) exposure to radiation. ("Stochastic" refers to the ("Stochastic" refers to the likelihood that something will happen.) likelihood that something will happen.)
Increased levels of exposure make these health effects more likely Increased levels of exposure make these health effects more likely to occur, but do not influence the type or severity of the effect.to occur, but do not influence the type or severity of the effect.
The severity of the ultimate effect is not linked to the amount of the The severity of the ultimate effect is not linked to the amount of the dosedose
There is NO threshold for the effects to be observed - Rad safety There is NO threshold for the effects to be observed - Rad safety assumes no safe amount.assumes no safe amount.
Somatic, “Prompt” Effects
Acute Dose (rem) Syndrome
1 - 25 No detectable effects
25 - 100 Slight sickness RBCs drop
100-1000 Hemopoietic
1000-5000 Gastointestinal
5000-10000 Central Nervous System
Gamma RadiationGamma Radiation
Absorbed DoseAbsorbed Dose Survival ProbabilitySurvival Probability
100 rad Virtually certain
100 - 200 rad Probable
200 - 450 rad Probable
500 - 600 rad Almost impossible
900 - 1200 rad Possible in some cases
with bone marrow t-plant
Non-stochastic effectsNon-stochastic effects
Severity of the result is related to the dose Severity of the result is related to the dose (usually high dose).(usually high dose).
Adverse effect happens soon after exposure Adverse effect happens soon after exposure and can be directly linked to exposureand can be directly linked to exposure
Generally related to a large dose over a short Generally related to a large dose over a short timetime
There is a threshold level - observed effects There is a threshold level - observed effects follow typical distribution around a dosefollow typical distribution around a dose
Cancer Risks
Excess Cancer Deaths after Acute, one-time exposure to 10 rem per 100,000 People (BEIR V)
Adult Leukemia 95
Cancer of digestive system 230
Cancer of Respiratory System 170
Leukemia risk (without excess 10 rem) was 685 excess deaths per 100,000 people (1980 Vital Statistics of the U.S.)
Teratogenic Effects
Another class of biological effects of concern are called the teratogenic effects.
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Teratogenic effects are effects which occur in offspring as a result of exposure to a hazard while in-utero
Maternal Factor Pregnancy Outcome Occurrence
Smoking< 1 pack/day> 1 pack/day
Babies weigh 5-9 oz less than avgInfant deathInfant death
1 in 51 in 3
Alcohol2 drinks/day2-4 drinks/day> 4 drinks/dayChronic alcoholism
Babies weigh 2-6 oz less than avgFetal alcohol syndromeFetal alcohol syndromeFetal alcohol syndrome
1 in 101 in 31 in 3 to 1 in 2
Radiation1 rem1 rem
Childhood leukemia deaths before 12 yrsOther childhood cancer deaths
1 in 33331 in 3571
Maternal Factors & Pregnancy
Occupational Dose
Annual Limits For WorkersAnnual Limits For Workers Whole body(active blood forming organs) 5 REMWhole body(active blood forming organs) 5 REM Eyes - 15 REM ; Extremities - 50 REMEyes - 15 REM ; Extremities - 50 REM Minors (10% of adult limits)Minors (10% of adult limits) Embryo/Fetus - 0.5 REM over the entire Embryo/Fetus - 0.5 REM over the entire
pregnancy.pregnancy.
Annual Limits For General PublicAnnual Limits For General Public Total Effective Dose Equivalent < 0.1 REMTotal Effective Dose Equivalent < 0.1 REM
ALARA
AAss
LLowow
AAss
RReasonablyeasonably
AAchievablechievable
MSUM is committed to MSUM is committed to keeping radiation keeping radiation
exposures to exposures to personnel ALARApersonnel ALARA
ALARA
Education - Education - Ensure proper training and use Ensure proper training and use reduces unnecessary exposurereduces unnecessary exposure
DoseDose - The lower the dose the better, but all - The lower the dose the better, but all within reasonwithin reason
ReasonableReasonable - is determined on a case by case - is determined on a case by case basis with the PI and RSObasis with the PI and RSO
ProtectionProtection - Use proper shielding and reduce - Use proper shielding and reduce time of exposuretime of exposure
Radiation Protection
The three principles of radiation protection:
Time
Distance
Shielding
Time
Decreasing the time spent near a radiation source decreases radiation exposure
Distance
Increasing the distance from a radiation source decreases radiation exposure
Increasing the shielding of a radiation source decreases radiation exposure
Shielding
shield
Shielding Beta Emitters
H-3, C-14, S-35 do not require shielding for the H-3, C-14, S-35 do not require shielding for the quantities typically in use.quantities typically in use.
Higher energy beta-emitters, such as P-32, may Higher energy beta-emitters, such as P-32, may need to be shieldedneed to be shielded
Shield with low Z materials, such as Plexiglas or Shield with low Z materials, such as Plexiglas or woodwood
Do NOT shield with high Z materials, such as Do NOT shield with high Z materials, such as lead- you can actually generate additional lead- you can actually generate additional radiation in the form of x-rays!radiation in the form of x-rays!
Shielding Gamma Emitters
Lead Shielding is not required for most Lead Shielding is not required for most quantities of gamma emitters in use, such as quantities of gamma emitters in use, such as I-125 or Cr-51I-125 or Cr-51
If lead shielding is used, be careful not to If lead shielding is used, be careful not to contaminate it with long-lived radioisotopescontaminate it with long-lived radioisotopes
Protective Clothing
GlovesGloves Lab CoatLab Coat EyewearEyewear Closed toe Closed toe
footwearfootwear
Contamination Control
Watch out where you put your “hot” little Watch out where you put your “hot” little hands during an experimenthands during an experiment
Monitor yourself and your work area Monitor yourself and your work area frequently for radioactivityfrequently for radioactivity
Make sure to wash your hands after Make sure to wash your hands after finishing an experimentfinishing an experiment
Avoid Ingesting Radioactive Material
Don’t bring hands or objects to your mouth Don’t bring hands or objects to your mouth when performing an experimentwhen performing an experiment
Eating, drinking, smoking, and applying Eating, drinking, smoking, and applying cosmetics are strictly forbidden in cosmetics are strictly forbidden in radioisotope use areasradioisotope use areas
Never mouth pipetteNever mouth pipette Food doesn’t belong in a refrigerator which Food doesn’t belong in a refrigerator which
stores radioactive materialsstores radioactive materials
Avoid inhaling radioactive material
Make sure that you Make sure that you have proper have proper ventilation for your ventilation for your experimentexperiment
When using volatile When using volatile materials, use a materials, use a fume hood which fume hood which has been certifiedhas been certified
Radioactive Signs & Labels
* Radioisotopes use areas should be clearly marked
* Use warning signs/ labels on - work areas - rad waste containers - sinks - refrigerators - equipment
Using H-3 (Tritium)
Betas from H-3 are stopped by the protective Betas from H-3 are stopped by the protective layer of your skin- shielding is not needed layer of your skin- shielding is not needed for quantities typically in use at MSUMfor quantities typically in use at MSUM
H-3 tends to “creep” - do not store tritiated H-3 tends to “creep” - do not store tritiated water in refrigerators or freezers without water in refrigerators or freezers without keeping in a sealed containerkeeping in a sealed container
Can not detect by Geiger counter - Can not detect by Geiger counter - must use must use a wipe testa wipe test..
Using C-14 & S-35
Shielding is not needed for quantities Shielding is not needed for quantities typically in use at MSUMtypically in use at MSUM
““Spot checks” for contamination can be Spot checks” for contamination can be performed using direct monitoring, but performed using direct monitoring, but contamination surveys must be performed contamination surveys must be performed using a “swipe” surveyusing a “swipe” survey
These isotopes can not be detected by These isotopes can not be detected by Geiger counter.Geiger counter.
Using P-32
If shielding is needed, use a low Z material If shielding is needed, use a low Z material such as wood or Plexiglas such as wood or Plexiglas
Do NOT use lead shielding- x-rays can be Do NOT use lead shielding- x-rays can be generatedgenerated
Geiger counter or wipe test will measure Geiger counter or wipe test will measure this isotope.this isotope.
Using Carrier-free I-125
Perform iodination as quickly as possible in Perform iodination as quickly as possible in a certified fume hooda certified fume hood
Reduce (iodine to iodide) all fractions, liquid Reduce (iodine to iodide) all fractions, liquid waste and equipment used ASAPwaste and equipment used ASAP
Store unused portions and items which Store unused portions and items which cannot be reduced inside a sealed bag with cannot be reduced inside a sealed bag with activated charcoal in a fume hoodactivated charcoal in a fume hood
Geiger counters will detect this isotopeGeiger counters will detect this isotope
General Spill Procedures
When cleaning up a spill, When cleaning up a spill, place absorbent material place absorbent material around the edges of the spill and clean from the around the edges of the spill and clean from the outside edges of the spill towards the center to outside edges of the spill towards the center to avoid spreading contaminationavoid spreading contamination
Place materials used to clean the spill into the Place materials used to clean the spill into the appropriate radioactive waste containersappropriate radioactive waste containers
The Radiation Safety Officer can provide advice to The Radiation Safety Officer can provide advice to lab personnel regarding decontamination lab personnel regarding decontamination proceduresprocedures
Minor Radioactive Spills
A minor spill is one that involves small A minor spill is one that involves small quantities/activities/energies of radioactive quantities/activities/energies of radioactive material confined to a relatively localized areamaterial confined to a relatively localized area
Most spills that occur in the lab are minor, and Most spills that occur in the lab are minor, and should be cleaned up by lab personnel ASAPshould be cleaned up by lab personnel ASAP
You do not need to inform the Radiation Safety You do not need to inform the Radiation Safety Officer in the event of a minor spillOfficer in the event of a minor spill
Intermediate Spills
An intermediate spill may involve larger An intermediate spill may involve larger amounts of radioactive material spread over amounts of radioactive material spread over a greater areaa greater area
Intermediate spills can also involve small Intermediate spills can also involve small amounts of more hazardous radioactive amounts of more hazardous radioactive materials, e.g., higher energy emittersmaterials, e.g., higher energy emitters
Intermediate Spills- What to Do
Confine contamination with absorbent materialsConfine contamination with absorbent materials Check yourself for contamination before leaving Check yourself for contamination before leaving
area; remove contaminated clothing and shoes.area; remove contaminated clothing and shoes. Restrict access to the spill areaRestrict access to the spill area If the spill involves a volatile material, increase If the spill involves a volatile material, increase
ventilation; if it is a dry spill, decrease ventilationventilation; if it is a dry spill, decrease ventilation
Intermediate Spills- What to Do(cont..)
If contamination is widespread outside the If contamination is widespread outside the lab, it may be necessary to contact campus lab, it may be necessary to contact campus police to assist with traffic controlpolice to assist with traffic control
Contact the Radiation Safety Officer Contact the Radiation Safety Officer (5085/4323) to report the spill(5085/4323) to report the spill
Do not attempt decontamination unless the Do not attempt decontamination unless the situation threatens to become much worsesituation threatens to become much worse
High Level Spills
Protecting personnel is the FIRST priority Protecting personnel is the FIRST priority If high level exposures or airborne If high level exposures or airborne
contamination are possible:contamination are possible:- evacuate area immediately- evacuate area immediately
- rid yourself of - rid yourself of contaminationcontamination - keep others - keep others out of areaout of area
And Another Thing About Spills…
You will not be penalized for reporting a spill, but on the other hand….
Radiation Survey Requirements
When should Surveys be conducted?When should Surveys be conducted?-- Whenever radioactive materials are present in Whenever radioactive materials are present in
the lab, contamination surveys MUST be the lab, contamination surveys MUST be performed and documented at least once a week. performed and documented at least once a week.
The area you are working with must be surveyed The area you are working with must be surveyed before finishing for the day.before finishing for the day.
If no experiments are being conducted, it is If no experiments are being conducted, it is permissible to halt tests until starting again.permissible to halt tests until starting again.
Contamination Surveys
Direct monitoring with a Geiger counter can be Direct monitoring with a Geiger counter can be performed when using P-32 and other high energy beta performed when using P-32 and other high energy beta emittersemitters
““Swipe” surveys must be performed for low energy beta Swipe” surveys must be performed for low energy beta emitters (e.g., H-3, C-14, S-35) and must be counted in emitters (e.g., H-3, C-14, S-35) and must be counted in a liquid scintillation counter or equivalent instrumenta liquid scintillation counter or equivalent instrument
Direct monitoring with a low energy gamma probe Direct monitoring with a low energy gamma probe (NaI) can be performed when using gamma emitters (NaI) can be performed when using gamma emitters such as I-125such as I-125
General Survey Information
Randomly survey selected areas outside of Randomly survey selected areas outside of normal radioisotope use areas at least once a normal radioisotope use areas at least once a monthmonth
Using a map of your lab can make documenting Using a map of your lab can make documenting surveyed areas easiersurveyed areas easier
Look for levels twice as large as the backgroundLook for levels twice as large as the background Check for contamination wherever human Check for contamination wherever human
hands normally go...hands normally go...
10 Most Often Contaminated Sites
10.10. Soap/towel Soap/towel dispenserdispenser
9.9. Microwave Microwave ovenoven
8.8. Radio dialsRadio dials
7.7. PhonesPhones
6.6. Pens/pencilsPens/pencils
5.5. ChairsChairs
4.4. Drawer Drawer handleshandles
3.3. RefrigeratorRefrigeratorhandleshandles
2.2. Lab booksLab books
1. Geiger counters
Documenting Surveys
Contamination surveys must be documented Contamination surveys must be documented Record the following:Record the following:
- date performed- date performed- area(s) surveyed ( a map helps!)- area(s) surveyed ( a map helps!)- results- results- identity of surveyor- identity of surveyor- instrument used- instrument used- action taken is contamination is found- action taken is contamination is found
Wipe Test Analysis Date__________________________________ Name-_____________________________________
Wipes will be taken once each week in the designated areas ( see attached map) of Science Lab 222, except during weeks in which no radioisotopes are used nor waste handling/d isposal is conducted. DPM will be determined using the Beckman LS 3801 liquid scintillation counter. Counts will be done using the appropriate channel(s) for the isotope(s) which was (were) used during that week; counts will be conducted a minimum of 5 minutes/count. Wipes will be taken with water moistened filter paper or cotton swabs, wiping a 100 cm2 area, and placed in a vial with an appropriate volume of water-soluble liquid scintillation cockta il (5.0 ml for the small vials). Wipe results of greater than 3X background counts will indicate the need for re-washing and re-assessment of the area. Any add itional areas (based on use) will also be wiped. Additional wipes will be marked on the map with a number indicating the area and the resulting counts included below. If additional wipes are needed, Simply re-number this form for your needs and not the act ivity and reason on an attached page . All counts are to be stored in the log.
Avg Background Cou nts:__________
Area DPM Area DPM Area DPM 1 21 41
2 22 42
3 23 43
4 24 44
5 25 45
6 26 46
7 27 47
8 28 48
9 29 49
10 30 50
11 31 51
12 32 52
13 33 53
14 34 54
15 35 55
16 36 56
17 37 57
18 38 58
Step-by-step Guide to Direct Monitoring - Before You Start
1 Don protective 1 Don protective equipment (e.g. gloves)equipment (e.g. gloves) 2 Check your Geiger2 Check your Geiger counter:counter:
- battery test- battery test- note background - note background radiation levelradiation level- turn on speaker- turn on speaker- check probe with- check probe with check sourcecheck source
Step-by-step Guide to Direct Monitoring, How-to
3 Switch Geiger counter to lowest multiplier, 3 Switch Geiger counter to lowest multiplier, usually X1usually X1
4 Hold probe window 1 cm from the surface 4 Hold probe window 1 cm from the surface you are surveyingyou are surveying
5 Move probe over surface at a rate of about 1 5 Move probe over surface at a rate of about 1 cm/secondcm/second
6 If surveying for alpha or beta contamination, 6 If surveying for alpha or beta contamination, do not cover probe with parafilm or plastic wrapdo not cover probe with parafilm or plastic wrap
Step-by-step Guide to Swipe Surveys- General Tips
Change gloves frequentlyChange gloves frequently Avoid cross-contaminating samplesAvoid cross-contaminating samples Use filter paper or cotton swabsUse filter paper or cotton swabs
Step-by-step Guide to Swipe Surveys, How-to
1. Don protective equipment (e.g., gloves)1. Don protective equipment (e.g., gloves) 2. Lightly moisten swipe with alcohol or 2. Lightly moisten swipe with alcohol or
waterwater 3. Using uniform pressure, “swipe” an area 3. Using uniform pressure, “swipe” an area
about 100-200 cmabout 100-200 cm2 2 (survey a discrete area (survey a discrete area so that if contamination is found the area so that if contamination is found the area will be easier to identify)will be easier to identify)
Radioactive Material Delivery
Deliveries are generally performed every weekday Deliveries are generally performed every weekday afternoon except for University holidaysafternoon except for University holidays
All packages are delivered the same day that they are All packages are delivered the same day that they are received; we will not hold a package unless absolutely received; we will not hold a package unless absolutely necessarynecessary
If you did not receive a package you were expecting, If you did not receive a package you were expecting, contact your business office, the vendor and the carrier contact your business office, the vendor and the carrier before calling the Radiation Safety Officerbefore calling the Radiation Safety Officer
Receipt of Radioactive Materials
Open containers with volatile, gaseous or readily Open containers with volatile, gaseous or readily dispersible materials in a fume hooddispersible materials in a fume hood
When you receive your shipment, check the inner When you receive your shipment, check the inner container for leakage- a simple swipe test is sufficientcontainer for leakage- a simple swipe test is sufficient
If there is a problem with the shipment, notify the If there is a problem with the shipment, notify the Radiation Safety Officer immediatelyRadiation Safety Officer immediately
Remember to document the receipt if radioactive Remember to document the receipt if radioactive material in your lab’s recordsmaterial in your lab’s records
Personnel Monitoring
Personnel monitoring Personnel monitoring devices are assigned at the devices are assigned at the discretion of the Radiation discretion of the Radiation Safety Officer in Safety Officer in accordance with all accordance with all applicable rules and applicable rules and regulationregulation
The Care and Feeding of Your Dosimeter
Always:Always: make available for make available for
exchange on the exchange on the appropriate exchange appropriate exchange datedate
report contamination report contamination of dosimetryof dosimetry
store away from store away from radioactive sourcesradioactive sources
Never:Never: share dosimetryshare dosimetry remove film from remove film from
holderholder expose to heatexpose to heat take off campustake off campus intentionally expose to intentionally expose to
radiationradiation
Wearing Dosimeters
Whole BodyWhole Body wear between neckline wear between neckline
and waist unless and waist unless otherwise instructedotherwise instructed
wear with name on wear with name on badge facing outwardsbadge facing outwards
ExtremityExtremity the label side of the the label side of the
ring should usually ring should usually face the palmface the palm
wear gloves over ring, wear gloves over ring, if possibleif possible
Missing Dosimeters
If you lose, damage or fail to make If you lose, damage or fail to make dosimeters available for exchange you will dosimeters available for exchange you will be required to provide a detailed description be required to provide a detailed description of all radioactive sources in use during the of all radioactive sources in use during the wear periodwear period
Storage of Radioactive Waste
Each radioactive waste container must have a Each radioactive waste container must have a “Caution Radioactive Materials” sign/label“Caution Radioactive Materials” sign/label
Radioactive waste containers Radioactive waste containers mustmust be stored in a be stored in a controlled areacontrolled area
Radioactive Waste Types
Solid
Liquid
Sharps Carcass
Solid Radioactive Waste
Segregate waste into three categories:Segregate waste into three categories: glass and plastic that cannot be decontaminated glass and plastic that cannot be decontaminated
easilyeasily paper, gloves, etc.paper, gloves, etc. short-lived waste (Tshort-lived waste (T1/21/2 < 90 days) to be held for < 90 days) to be held for
decaydecay Line containers with clear plastic bags at least 4 Line containers with clear plastic bags at least 4
mils thickmils thick Do Do notnot put liquids into the solid waste put liquids into the solid waste
Liquid Waste
OrganicOrganic store in 1 - 5 gal store in 1 - 5 gal
plastic carboys with plastic carboys with outer containmentouter containment
filter out solids (use filter out solids (use 60 mesh screen)60 mesh screen)
pH must be adjusted to pH must be adjusted to between 6.8 and 8.0between 6.8 and 8.0
AqueousAqueous low activity waste can low activity waste can
be disposed into the be disposed into the sanitary sewer system sanitary sewer system in specific amounts in specific amounts and/or concentrations and/or concentrations with prior approval with prior approval from the Radiation from the Radiation Safety Officer Safety Officer onlyonly
Radioactive “Sharps”
radioactive sharps are items such radioactive sharps are items such as Pasteur pipettes, syringes and as Pasteur pipettes, syringes and hypodermic needles hypodermic needles
most glass items (test tubes, vials, most glass items (test tubes, vials, etc.) can be decontaminated and etc.) can be decontaminated and should should notnot be disposed of as be disposed of as radioactive sharpsradioactive sharps
Radioactive Carcasses
Prior arrangements must be made with the Prior arrangements must be made with the Radiation Safety Officer for disposal of Radiation Safety Officer for disposal of
radioactive carcassesradioactive carcasses
User Definitions
Principle Investigator - Tenure Track MSUM Faculty. Approved by Radiation Safety Committee
Workers - Those staff or research students, who are using radioactive materials under the supervision of a principle investigator
User Responsibility
Principle Investigator -Ensure that all procedures are authorized and followed.- Ensure surveys are conducted and reported-Monitor use and disposal of isotopes-Ensure their workers are trained
Workers - Must be trained and pass short course test-Must practice ALARA and monitor use-Conduct surveys and report spills or contamination
SL 222 Access
Principle Investigator - Has full access to side rooms and main room keys
Workers - May only have access to outside doors of SL222 after passing test. Can not have full access to side rooms. Must get those keys from PI.
MSUM Radiation Safety Manual
The MSUM Radiation Safety The MSUM Radiation Safety Manual contains information Manual contains information
that all users of radiation that all users of radiation sources at MSUM should knowsources at MSUM should know
Permission to usePermission to use Worker and PI responsibilitiesWorker and PI responsibilities Health DefinitionsHealth Definitions Forms in the handbook and on the web Forms in the handbook and on the web web.mnstate.edu/provost/radsafe.htmlweb.mnstate.edu/provost/radsafe.html
MSUM Radiation AuthorizationNow What?Now What?
Rad Safe Test - take on your ownRad Safe Test - take on your own You must take the MSUM Rad Safe test and You must take the MSUM Rad Safe test and
pass with a score of 75%pass with a score of 75% The test is found on-line.The test is found on-line. Sign and agree to info on the test formSign and agree to info on the test form Complete forms 1 and 2 (also found online)Complete forms 1 and 2 (also found online) Turn forms and test to Dr ProvostTurn forms and test to Dr Provost
Orientation - you must make apptOrientation - you must make appt Conducted by RSO (Dr. Provost)Conducted by RSO (Dr. Provost) Tour / review of site and storageTour / review of site and storage Answer questions on use and proceduresAnswer questions on use and procedures Wipe test/Survey reviewWipe test/Survey review Key control / access privilegeKey control / access privilege Web site & Handbook reviewWeb site & Handbook review