Safety Instruction for the Use of Neutron Probes

Before using the neutron probes:

1. View the Radiation Safety Video

2. Receive the Radiation Detection Badge with information, how to use it

3. Training for safe handling of the instrument in the field is mandatory

4. Neutron probe Transportation: and use

1. Radiation detection badges are required for those operating the the nuclear gauges.

2. Shipping papers including a copy of the latest wipe test result must be in the university vehicle while transporting the gauges. When the driver is at the vehicle's controls, the shipping   papers shall be within his immediate reach while he is restrained by the lap belt; and either readily visible to a person entering the driver's compartment or in a holder which is mounted to  the inside of the door on the driver's side of the vehicle When the driver is not at the vehicle's controls, the shipping paper shal be in a holder which is mounted to the inside of the door    on the driver's side of the vehicle; or on the driver's seat in the vehicle

3. When transporting the gauge to a field site, it shall be in its carrying case, placed as far as possible from the occupants of the vehicle, and secured to protect it from shock. The neutron probe can not be transported in the vehicle compartment, it has to be in the back of the pick up or in the trunk of the car. The vehicle containing the gauge shall be locked  when the user is not in attendance. Overnight storage in the university vehicle is not permitted

4. Storage:

After use the gauges are to be taken to the storage facilities. Overnight storage in the lab is only allowed for recharching the batteries.

5. Wipe Test:

Twice a year each neutron probe has to be wipe-tested using kits provided by Troxler.

6. Radiation Detection Badges:

TMA/Eberline is providing the University with radiation detection badges. Each person who will be using the neutron probe has an assigned badge. It is advised, to clip the badge to your belt, a pocket on your labcoat or pocket on your shirt every time you are in contact with the gauge.

TMA/Eberline will keep the accumulated dose records on file by badge number. Therefore the number on the badge will not be reassigned.

TMA/Eberline will ship the badges quarterly several days prior to the exchange date including a control badge. The control badge should be kept in an area well away from any source of radiation, and must be returned with the used personnel badges. The dose obtained from the control badge is subtracted from the dose obtained on the personnel badge. The report,    therefore, reflects exposures that have been corrected for both natural background and in-transit exposure.

TMA/Eberline will mail a computerized report within five to ten working days after receipt of badges. They will report any whole body dose over 300 mR by phone.

The batteries of the gauges have to be recharged in the lab, for that reason TMA/Eberline supplied us with a room monitor (and control). The monitors are handled the same way as the   personnel badges.

All reports from TMA/Eberline are available at all time in Room 142

The Radiation Safety Manual is in Room 142 black steel cabinet and in Room 146   cabinet behind door.