DOE Sealed Source Definitions

[kg1@cosmail1.ctd.ornl.gov (Kurt Geber)]

        This question is directed at Radsafers familiar with the Department
of Energy's requirements for control and accountability of sealed
radioactive sources.  

        DOE has cancelled DOE Notice 5400.13, "Sealed Radioactive Source
Accountability," and replaced it with requirements given in the new DOE
Notice 441.1, "Radiological Protection for DOE Activities,"  One subtle
difference between the DOE directives is in the definition of a sealed
radioactive source.  Does anybody know the significance of "...a known
quantity of radioactive material..." in the N 441.1. definition?  Also, what
does "known" mean?  Is assay documentation needed or is a good
(conservative) guess based on radiation readings and assumptions about
attenuation adequate?  Many times the activity of legacy sources is
"unknown."  Are they then not sources???

        N 5400.13 Definition of Sealed Radioactive Source: radioactive
material that is contained in a sealed capsule, sealed between layers of
nonradioactive
material, or firmly fixed to a nonradioactive surface by electroplating or
other means. The confining barrier prevents dispersion of the radioactive
material under normal and most accidental conditions related to its use.

        N 441.1 Definition of Sealed Radioactive Source: means a radioactive
source specifically manufactured, obtained, or retained for the purpose of
utilizing the emitted radiation.  the sealed radioactive source consists of
a known quantity of radioactive material contained within a sealed capsule,
sealed between layers of non-radioactive material, or firmly fixed to a
non-radioactive surface by electroplating or other means intended to prevent
leakage or escape of the radioactive material.

Kurt Geber
kg1@ornl.gov


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