[ RadSafe ] lapel monitors for potential airborne alpha particulates

[Kurtz, Jerry E]

We use lapels routinely and have had the experience that it has saved out bacon many times when results are compared with the grab sample for the work. We use a protected head that has a limited entry angle that all but eliminates the worry about close quarter contamination. We have had times where the high volume sample indicates a release but individual lapel monitors showed minimal potential for intake by the workers. We do a lot of D&D activities and with dust generated, the need is real to evaluate respirable vs non-respirable fractions. In a dusty environment, a high volume sampler (5-8 CFM) can collect sample a large non-respirable fraction.

We use our lapels strictly to evaluate potential worker intake, not work place air concentrations.

Thanks,

Jerry Kurtz
2420 Stevens/276
509-376-5855 (w)
509-438-7130 (c)
509-376-5599 (f)
Jerry_E_Kurtz at rl.gov

-----Original Message-----
From: radsafe-bounces at agni.phys.iit.edu [mailto:radsafe-bounces at agni.phys.iit.edu] On Behalf Of Harry Reynolds
Sent: Friday, July 30, 2010 6:59 AM
To: grahnk at comcast.net; radsafe at agni.phys.iit.edu
Subject: Re: [ RadSafe ] lapel monitors for potential airborne alpha particulates

Another potential problem with lapel samplers on the worker is the likelihood of contaminating the filter with loose surface contamination rather than airborne contamination especially in close quarters.  This can result in some really scary numbers but bioassay can show that it was not valid. 


Harry Reynolds
ASRSO
ENERGYSOLUTIONS
801-649-2219 Desk
801-349-9036 Cell 

-----Original Message-----
From: radsafe-bounces at health.phys.iit.edu [mailto:radsafe-bounces at health.phys.iit.edu] On Behalf Of grahnk at comcast.net
Sent: Friday, July 30, 2010 5:26 AM
To: radsafe at health.phys.iit.edu
Subject: Re: [ RadSafe ] lapel monitors for potential airborne alpha particulates



Over the years, we've seen a significant difference in levels when comparing work area monitors to lapel sampling.  Even with agressive dust control measures, workers handling tarps for daily cover of contaminated soils had the highest exposures.  The differences were 500 to 1500 times the area monitors on occasion.   Then again, training is an issue.  Equipment operators and truck drivers tend to set them on the floor of their cab and vaccuum the floor mats and we got the occasional abnormally high value. 



Kelly Grahn 

Illinois Emergency Management, Nuclear Safety 


----- Original Message -----
From: "JOHN RICH" <JOHN.RICH at sargentlundy.com>
To: radsafe at health.phys.iit.edu
Sent: Thursday, July 29, 2010 9:38:21 PM
Subject: [ RadSafe ] lapel monitors for potential airborne alpha particulates 

Radsafers 

It has been suggested that D&D workers use lapel monitors for potential airborne alpha particulates IN ADDITION TO a continuous air sampler in the immediate vicinity of the D&D work. 

My first thought is that the nuisance factor for the workers is going to be "anti-ALARA." 

Can anybody provide some experience with the necessity, effectiveness, and "value added" by lapel monitors vs an air sampler in the immediate vicinity? 

Thanx in advance  - -jmr 





John Rich
312-269-3768
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