Purpose and Scope of Searching for Radiation Sources in Responding to and Handling Radiation Incidents as Regulated
Purpose and Scope of Searching for Radioactive Sources in Responding to and Handling Radiation Incidents are Defined as Follows:
Based on Section I Annex I.4 issued together with Circular 08/2022/TT-BKHCN (effective from July 22, 2022) defining the purpose and scope of searching for radioactive sources in responding to and handling radiation incidents:
1. Purpose
This procedure defines the activities of searching for radioactive sources according to the response plan approved by the Field Commander.
2. Scope and Applicable Subjects
This procedure applies to forces participating in the search for radioactive sources according to the assigned functions and tasks or under the movement of the Field Commander.
Regulations on the Contents of the Procedure for Searching for Radioactive Sources in Responding to and Handling Radiation Incidents are as Follows:
According to Subsection 3 Section I Annex I.4 issued together with Circular 08/2022/TT-BKHCN (effective from July 22, 2022), the content of the procedure for searching for radioactive sources in responding to and handling radiation incidents is regulated:
3.1. Diagram
3.2. Explanation
Step 1: Assembly and Deployment of Forces and Equipment
- Assemble forces and equipment upwind, ensure general labor safety conditions at the scene.
- Communicate and review the planned search method for radioactive sources.
- Check the quantity, types, and operating status of equipment.
- Equip protective clothing, masks, gloves, and personal radiation dosimeters.
Step 2: Search for Radioactive Sources According to the Established Plan
Responding personnel keep the measuring devices in the "on" state:
- Enter areas suspected of containing radioactive sources as planned, such as buildings, warehouses, waste treatment areas, scrap storage areas, containers, etc. (in case of a broad area search, use transport means with NaI probes to quickly identify areas containing radioactive sources or areas with contamination spread).
- Combine radiation dose rate observation with the search for objects with ionizing radiation symbols, owner or manufacturer names, lead objects, or heavy containers.
- Move the probe slowly while surveying surfaces, objects, containers, barriers, paying attention to searching high areas, low areas, and hard-to-access areas.
- Stand still, turn the body to determine the direction with the highest radiation dose rate.
- If the dose rate is close to the device's measurement limit, consider using more appropriate equipment.
Step 3.1: Not Finding the Radioactive Source
- Record search information, searched areas, environmental radiation background levels.
Step 3.2: Finding the Radioactive Source or Suspected Radioactive Source Area
- Mark the area.
- Instruct everyone to leave the area.
- Use lead bags, lead sheets to temporarily shield the radioactive source if the radiation dose rate is high.
- Erect barriers to cordon off and isolate the area.
Approach the radioactive source, gather maximum information for the recovery and handling of the radioactive source such as: shape, physical condition of the radioactive source, the device containing the radioactive source (specifically identify the shapes and sizes of fragments if possible); radiation dose rates at various distances from the radioactive source; type of radioactive isotope; potential radioactive contamination; other non-radioactive hazards (chemicals, explosives, terrain, etc.).
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