HEALTH AND SAFETY MANUAL

DHI-EHS-HSM-029

RADIOACTIVE SUBSTANCE

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Revision Details Next Review: January 2015

Rev. Date Revision Status Checked Approved

00 31/03/2014 Draft Yonghyun Kim Seungmin Park

DHI-EHS-HSM-029 (March 2014), Page 1 of 4

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

To provide basic requirements for the use and handling of ionizing radiation equipment.

DEFINITIONS

Ionizing High energy radiation capable of producing ionization in substances, through which it
Radiation: passes, it includes non particulate radiation such as x-rays and radiation produced by
energetic charged particles, such as alpha and beta rays and by neutrons, as from a
nuclear reaction.

PROCEDURE
1.0 Introduction
Ionizing radiation may be used on site where non-destructive testing (NDT) is required by means of radiography.
Following two fundamental method of radiography in general:
 Portable x-ray machines
 Radioactive isotope (sealed sources)
X-ray machines are bulky and require an electrical power supply to operate. However, they are safe when
disconnected and not in use.
Radioactive isotopes are very small and do not require a power supply and are therefore very portable. Their
major disadvantage is that they emit harmful radiation at all times even when not in use.

2.0 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment

Harmful effects from excessive exposure to ionizing radiations fall into two groups:
 Effects which appear during lifetime of exposed individual and include:
 Radiological dermatitis;
 Loss of hair;
 Skin burns, which are slow to heal and may become malignant;
 Anemia;
 Cataract; and
 Bone cancer.
 Genetic, where they appear in the exposed individuals off-spring
Where significant levels of ionizing radiation may be encountered, a risk assessment should be carried out prior
to the work commencing.

3.0 Risk Checklist

Types of risk may include:
 Persons receiving excessive exposure to radiation;
 Radiation levels not being monitored;
 Operatives not wearing dose badges;

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  Sources and containers not properly maintained and sealed; and
 Persons not wearing personal protective equipment if required.

4.0 Control Measures

Radioactive substances may not be purchased, hired or used unless written consent has been given by the
Atomic Energy Board or similar, in the country of operation. It is important to check the country legislation
requirements. Anyone who intends to use ionizing radiations should be either:
 Registered under Radiation Protection Regulations (check local regulations)
 Exempt from registration
 Registered under Radiation Protection Regulations (check local regulations)
 Where practicable, exposure to be restricted by shielding and containment of radioactive substances
(e.g. carrying out radiography in a suitable enclosure and using suitable collimators).
 Exposure to be restricted by provision of a safe system of work, including controlled and supervised
areas marked by barriers and notices.
 Persons likely to receive specified minimum dose to be designated classified persons and wear suitable
film badges or dosimeters and be medically examined.
 The appointment of a radiation protection officer and supervisor. Information, instruction and training to
persons working with ionizing radiation and others concerned with the work.
 Where practicable, radioactive substances to be in the form of sealed sources and leaks tested
regularly.
 Records of quantities and locations of radioactive substances to be kept.
 Radioactive substances not in use should be kept in suitable receptacles which should be marked if
transported.
 Monitoring instruments should be provided.
 Any significant losses or spillage to be reported to the relevant authorities in the country of operation.
 Other relevant legislation and regulations should be referred to and compiled with where appropriate.
 Emergency procedure must be revised to accommodate the risk of losing harmful radioactive sources or
being unable to reel isotopes back into their protective containment.

5.0 Radioactive Substances

5.1 Safety Checklist
 Has notification and written consent been received prior to acquisition of a radioactive substance?
 Are persons using ionizing radiations registered or if not are they exempt?
 Are there designated areas and are they being maintained with barriers and warnings?
 Are sources sealed and regularly checked and labeled when moved?
 Are classified persons designated?
 Are dose badges being worn by classified persons?
 Are radiation levels being monitored to calibrated instruments?

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 Have radiation protection advisers and supervisors been appointed?

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