Radiation Spill

RADIATION SPILL


CAUTION:

Spreading of radioactive contamination beyond the spill area can easily occur by the movement of personnel involved in the spill or cleanup effort. Prevent spread by confining movement of personnel until they have been monitored and found free of contamination. A minor radiation spill is one that the laboratory staff is  capable of handling safely without assistance of Radiation Safety officer, typically less that 1 mCi. All other radiation spills are considered major.


Minor Radiation Spill (<1 mCi)

• Alert people in immediate area of spill.

• Don protective equipment, such as safety glassed, disposable gloves, shoe covers, and long-sleeve lab coat.

• Confine movement of potentially contaminated personnel until they are monitored and found free of contamination.

• Place absorbent paper towels over liquid spill. Place towels dampened with water over spills of solid materials.

• Pick towels with forceps and place in plastic bag. Dispose in radiation waste container.

• Monitor area, hands and shoes for contamination. Repeat cleanup until less than 200 dpm/100cm2 is detected.

• Notify Radiation Safety Officer 2-1977


Major Radiation Spill (>1mCi)

• Alert people in the laboratory to evacuate.

• Call Radiation Protection Officer 2-1977

• Place absorbent paper towels over liquid spill. Place towels dampened with water over spills of solid materials.

• Confine movement of potentially contaminated personnel until they are monitored and found free of contamination.

• Remove and store contaminated clothing for evaluation by Radiation Protection Officer.

• Close and lock doors to prevent entrance into contaminated area. Placard door with Do Not Enter Signage: Spill Area