Detection of HEU, etc

[Brian Rees <brees@lanl.gov>]

Folks,



Many instruments can detect HEU, the problem is that the signal may be 

small enough that it's difficult to discern from other sources, and that to 

avoid nuisance alarms many organizations turn the sensitivity on 

instruments down (make them less sensitive).  Of course, if you shield it, 

the problem is more complex.

OK, here's my soapbox...

That is why it is VITAL that appropriate training be provided to ANYBODY 

who gets an instrument.  People understand that their jobs are important, 

and everybody with a uniform or badge takes their responsibilities 

seriously, they WANT too do a good job, but they have to know "what's 

what".  An understanding of radiation, and radiation detection is not 

intuitive, and the debate over the potential hazard(s) of single mrems 

makes it difficult for someone who has plenty of other issues to consider 

during their "regular jobs" to do exactly what "we'd" like them to do when 

they encounter something radioactive.   Training them for 100% of what they 

may encounter, and exactly what to do 100% of the time is not 

realistic.  70%, 80%, 90% is debatable.



There are solutions.  While I'm not a big fan of DOE itself, the RAP 

program is an excellent avenue for responders to get help when they 

encounter radiation related issues.  The proper resources can be called 

upon, and assistance will be obtained.   Many States have excellent 

radiation programs, and provide response assistance as well.  Any response 

must consider the entire situation, and be graded for the situation.  As 

more people get and use radiation detectors, the response will get better, 

but we must ensure that people don't become dismissive or complacent.   So, 

if you are involved with responders and instruments, ensure they are 

appropriately trained so they will do the right things, 10 minutes isn't 

enough, 8 hours may be too much.



The risk from an RDD or the potential for a mushroom cloud can be debated, 

but these things will happen, and we must do the best we can as a community 

to help the public when it does.  As we've seen from Boston this month, the 

public (and the media) will be disproportionately concerned when the word 

"radioactive" is used.



(obviously) my own opinions, not those of my management or employment chain



Brian Rees



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