An area is considered to be contaminated when removable radioactivity in excess of 5X background are detected. When contamination is detected, the following procedures should be followed:

1. Mark the contaminated area and inform other lab personnel.
2. Put on protective clothing, such as rubber gloves, lab coat, etc.
3. Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water, count-off, etc.
4. Re-monitor the area. If still contaminated, repeat steps 1 and 2.
5. Document the "clean" survey results.

If the contamination cannot be cleaned, clearly label the area to prevent the spread of contamination and call the Radiation Safety Program for assistance. For spills and contamination problems, or if you are uncertain about how to proceed, contact Radiation Safety immediately.

Radiation levels in the lab must be kept ALARA (see Section 11). Corrective actions must be taken for all areas in which the count or exposure rate from beta and/or gamma or x-ray sources exceeds 5X background levels. This includes areas in which waste or stock solutions are stored.

If repair or service is to be done on radiation equipment, laboratory fixtures, or physical plant equipment by physical plant workers (plumbers, steamfitters, electricians, etc.) or other individuals without radiation training the following procedures must be followed. Note that the worker must be informed of any potential hazards within the laboratory before the work is begun.

1. Removable Contamination in Work Areas

   Remove and secure all radioactivity within the area including radioactive waste. Then survey the area or equipment (thorough wipe testing) to be worked on for removable contamination. It must be found “clean” of radioactive contamination before any work can begin. If contamination is found, the unit or area must be decontaminated, resurveyed, and clearly marked as being free of contamination. All survey results must be documented and a copy provided to physical plant or radiation safety personnel upon request.

2. Radiation Levels in Work Areas

   Repair personnel may not work in any area where exposures could exceed:

   • 2 mrem in any one hour.
   • 100 mrem per year.

   The Authorized User must retain documentation of these surveys and provide a copy to the worker upon request. In areas not directly assigned to an Authorized User, the Radiation Safety Program will retain the survey records.