TA-53 USER FACILITY SPECIFIC TRAINING

# Table of Contents

[Table of Contents 2](#table-of-contents)

[1.0 Introduction 5](#introduction)

[2.0 Purpose 5](#purpose)

[3.0 Objectives for General Information Section
5](#objectives-for-general-information-section)

[Section I: General Information for All Users
6](#section-i-general-information-for-all-users)

[4.0 Safety and Security Responsibilities
6](#safety-and-security-responsibilities)

[4.0.1 Reporting Safety and Security Concerns
6](#reporting-safety-and-security-concerns)

[4.1 User Contacts 6](#user-contacts)

[4.2 Occupational Safety and Health Program
6](#occupational-safety-and-health-program)

[4.2.1 Your Rights 6](#your-rights)

[4.2.1 Your Responsibilities 7](#your-responsibilities)

[4.3 Government Property 7](#government-property)

[4.4 Smoking on LANL Property 7](#smoking-on-lanl-property)

[4.5 Harassment Prevention 7](#harassment-prevention)

[4.6 Workplace Violence 7](#workplace-violence)

[5.0 Accessing TA-53 8](#accessing-ta-53)

[5.0.1 Random Searches 8](#random-searches)

[5.0.2 Prohibited Items 8](#prohibited-items)

[5.0.3 Controlled Items 8](#controlled-items)

[5.1 Special Access Needs 8](#special-access-needs)

[5.2 Access Controls (Entering and Exiting the Main Gate)
8](#access-controls-entering-and-exiting-the-main-gate)

[5.2.1 If you are a United States citizen:
9](#if-you-are-a-united-states-citizen)

[5.2.2 If you are a non-United States citizen (Foreign National)
9](#if-you-are-a-non-united-states-citizen-foreign-national)

[5.2.3 Entering TA-53 when the main gates are closed
10](#entering-ta-53-when-the-main-gates-are-closed)

[5.2.4 Exiting TA-53 when the main gates are closed
10](#exiting-ta-53-when-the-main-gates-are-closed)

[5.2.5 If you set off the gate alarm while exiting TA-53:
10](#if-you-set-off-the-gate-alarm-while-exiting-ta-53)

[5.2.6 Access Control for Buildings 10](#access-control-for-buildings)

[6.0 Tag Your Bag 11](#tag-your-bag)

[7.0 Working Safely 11](#working-safely)

[8.0 Work and Worker Authorization 12](#work-and-worker-authorization)

[9.0 Stop Work 12](#stop-work)

[10.0 General Expectations in Experimental Areas
12](#general-expectations-in-experimental-areas)

[10.1 Wear Appropriate Footwear 12](#wear-appropriate-footwear)

[10.2 Do Not Eat or Drink in Experimental Areas/Beam Lines
12](#do-not-eat-or-drink-in-experimental-areasbeam-lines)

[10.3 Read Postings 13](#read-postings)

[11.0 Hazards and Response 13](#hazards-and-response)

[11.1 Electrical Hazards. 13](#electrical-hazards.)

[11.1.1 Lockout/Tagout 13](#lockouttagout)

[11.1.2 Electrical Accidents 13](#electrical-accidents)

[11.2 Radiation Hazards. 14](#radiation-hazards.)

[11.2.1 ALARA 14](#alara)

[11.2.2 Dosimetry 15](#dosimetry)

[11.2.2.1 Thermoluminescent Dosimeter 15](#thermoluminescent-dosimeter)

[11.2.2.2 Personal Neutron Dosimeter 15](#personal-neutron-dosimeter)

[11.2.3 RWPs 15](#rwps)

[11.2.4 Health Physics Contacts 16](#health-physics-contacts)

[11.2.5 Albatross Neutron Detectors 16](#albatross-neutron-detectors)

[11.3 Radioactive Material Hazards. 18](#radioactive-material-hazards.)

[11.4 External Radiation Hazards. 21](#external-radiation-hazards.)

[11.4.1 Line D Potential Radiation Hazard on La Mesita Road.
22](#line-d-potential-radiation-hazard-on-la-mesita-road.)

[11.5. Surface Contamination Hazards.
22](#surface-contamination-hazards.)

[11.6 Contamination Portal Monitor 22](#contamination-portal-monitor)

[11.6.2 Response to Portal Monitor Alarms
23](#response-to-portal-monitor-alarms)

[11.7 Personnel Contamination Monitor-1 (PCM-1)
23](#personnel-contamination-monitor-1-pcm-1)

[11.7.2 Response to PCM Alarms 24](#response-to-pcm-alarms)

[11.8 Chemical and Chemical Spill Hazards.
24](#chemical-and-chemical-spill-hazards.)

[11.9 Pressure and Vacuum. 25](#pressure-and-vacuum.)

[11.10 Machine and Hand Tools. 25](#machine-and-hand-tools.)

[11.12 Crane Hazards. 25](#crane-hazards.)

[11.13 Wildlife and Fire Hazards. 26](#wildlife-and-fire-hazards.)

[12. Abnormal Events and Emergencies
26](#abnormal-events-and-emergencies)

[13. Responding to Alarms 26](#responding-to-alarms)

[14. Shipping, Transferring or Receiving Nuclear/Radioactive Material
27](#shipping-transferring-or-receiving-nuclearradioactive-material)

[15. Managing your Waste 27](#managing-your-waste)

[16. Returning Dosimeters, Other Badges, and Forms
27](#returning-dosimeters-other-badges-and-forms)

[17. You Are Responsible! 28](#you-are-responsible)

[Section II: Specific Information for Users at WNR
29](#section-ii-specific-information-for-users-at-wnr)

[1.0 Objectives for WNR Section 29](#objectives-for-wnr-section)

[2.0 General Area Overview 29](#general-area-overview)

[3.0 Accessing WNR Experimental Areas
29](#accessing-wnr-experimental-areas)

[4.0 Contacts 30](#contacts)

[4.1 Experimental Area Manager (EAM) :
30](#experimental-area-manager-eam)

[4.2 WNR Safety Officer: 31](#wnr-safety-officer)

[4.3 Flight Pat Scientist: 31](#flight-path-scientist)

[5.0 Controls and Hazards 31](#controls-and-hazards)

[5.1. Beam Hazards and Controls 31](#beam-hazards-and-controls)

[5.2. Moving items that are potentially Volume-Contaminated (Activated)
32](#moving-items-that-are-potentially-volume-contaminated-activated)

[5.3. Surface Contamination Issues 33](#surface-contamination-issues)

[5.4. Buddy Principle in Blue Room and Blue Room Basement
33](#buddy-rule-in-blue-room-and-blue-room-basement)

[5.5. Egress Issues 34](#egress-issues)

[5.6. Cryogens 34](#cryogens)

[5.7. High Explosives 34](#high-explosives)

[5.8. Target 4 Tunnel 34](#target-4-tunnel)

[6.0 Conclusion 35](#conclusion)

[Section III: Specific Information for Users at the Lujan Center
35](#section-iii-specific-information-for-users-at-the-lujan-center)

[1.0 Objectives for Lujan Center Section
35](#objectives-for-lujan-center-section)

[2.0 General Area Information for the Lujan Center
35](#general-area-information-for-the-lujan-center)

[3.0 Accessing Lujan Experimental Areas
36](#accessing-lujan-experimental-areas)

[3.1 Entry Requirements: 36](#entry-requirements)

[3.1.1 ER-2 Access 36](#er-2-access)

[3.1.2 ER-1 as a Limited Access Area:
37](#er-1-as-a-limited-access-area)

[4.0 Removing Samples or Equipment from ER-1 and ER-2:
38](#removing-samples-or-equipment-from-er-1-and-er-2)

[4.1 ER-2 38](#er-2)

[4.2 ER-1 39](#er-1)

[4.3 Shipping Samples Off TA-53 39](#shipping-samples-off-ta-53)

[5.0 Emergency Evacuation: 39](#__RefHeading___Toc131235692)

[6.0 Contacts 40](#contacts-1)

[6.1 Experimental Area Manager (EAM) :
40](#experimental-area-manager-eam-1)

[6.2 Instrument Responsible: 40](#instrument-responsible)

[6.3 Lujan Center Safety Officer: 41](#lujan-center-safety-officer)

[6.4 Lujan Center Experiment Coordinator:
41](#lujan-center-experiment-coordinator)

[7.0 Hazards 41](#hazards)

[7.1 Prompt Radiation Controls in Instrument Caves
41](#prompt-radiation-controls-in-instrument-caves)

[7.2 Tungsten Oxide Hazard 42](#tungsten-oxide-hazard)

[7.3 Chemical: 42](#chemical)

[7.4 Nuclear Materials: 43](#nuclear-materials)

[7.5 External Radiation Hazards: 43](#external-radiation-hazards)

[7.6 Electrical: 44](#electrical)

[7.7 Cranes, Forklifts, Low Ceilings, Falls/Tripping:
44](#cranes-forklifts-low-ceilings-fallstripping)

[7.8 Hazardous Materials: 45](#hazardous-materials)

[7.8.1 Mercury: 45](#mercury)

[7.8.2 Cadmium and Lead: 45](#cadmium-and-lead)

[7.9 Machine and Hand Tools: 45](#machine-and-hand-tools)

[7.10 Confined Spaces: 46](#confined-spaces)

[7.11 Cryogenic Fluids/Low Oxygen: 46](#cryogenic-fluidslow-oxygen)

[7.12 High Pressure/Vacuum: 46](#high-pressurevacuum)

[7.13 Fire: 47](#fire)

[8.0 CONCLUSION: 47](#conclusion-1)

#   {#section .unnumbered}

# 1.0 Introduction 

Thank you for joining us as a user at the Los Alamos Neutron Science
Center (LANSCE). LANSCE is located at Technical Area 53 (TA-53) at the
Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL). LANSCE is a world-class linear
accelerator facility. Our primary User experimental areas are the:

-   Lujan Neutron Scattering Center (Lujan Center), and

-   Weapons Neutron Research Facility (WNR)

# 2.0 Purpose 

This course will inform you of the hazards at LANSCE. It also describes
the controls in place to protect you, other workers, and the environment
and explains how to respond to abnormal events or emergencies.

The course is divided into three sections- the first section addresses
general information that all users should know; the second section
addresses specific hazards and controls at WNR; and the third section
addresses specific hazards and controls at the Lujan Center.

After you complete this self-study course, you will take a short quiz to
demonstrate your understanding of the material. You must score at least
80% on the quiz to gain unescorted access the User experimental areas.

# 3.0 Objectives for General Information Section

At the completion of this training the trainee will be able to:

1.  Identify the procedures for entering TA-53.

2.  Recognize the proper response to a main gate alarm when you are
    exiting TA-53.

3.  Recognize the proper steps to take to "stop work" for safety or
    security concerns.

4.  Recognize the general controls for hazards found in most
    experimental areas at TA-53

5.  Recognize the appropriate response to the status lights and alarms
    on an Albatross neutron detector.

6.  Recognize when to use a Portal Monitor or Personal Contamination
    Monitor (PCM).

7.  Identify the correct response to an abnormal event or emergency.

8.  Identify the requirements for shipping, transferring or receiving
    radioactive material at TA-53.

9.  Recognize your responsibility for proper waste management.

# Section I: General Information for All Users 

# 4.0 Safety and Security Responsibilities

Visitors to TA-53 have Environment Safety and Health (ES&H), security,
and administrative responsibilities similar to those of LANL employees
and are expected to abide by LANL policies and procedures. Visitors who
do not comply with these policies may be asked to leave. Your host will
answer any questions regarding your responsibilities during your visit.

## 4.0.1 Reporting Safety and Security Concerns

You should report safety and security concerns to your local contact or
instrument responsible scientist. You may also contact the ES&H Hotline
at S-SAFE (5-7233), or the Security Help Desk at 5-2002.

# 4.1 User Contacts

Your local contact or instrument responsible scientist will help you
with technical issues. For any other questions at the LANSCE User Office
will help you. You can contact them by phone at 505-665-1010, or by
e-mail at <lansce_users@lanl.gov>.

# 4.2 Occupational Safety and Health Program

The goal of the LANL's Occupational Safety and Health Program is to
reduce or prevent injuries, illnesses, and accidental losses by
providing a safe and healthy workplace. LANL is required to comply with
DOE-prescribed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
standards (DOE 0 440.1A) similar to those provided for private industry
by the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

## 4.2.1 Your Rights

You have the right to:

-   accompany DOE worker protection personnel during workplace
    inspections;

-   participate in these activities on official time;

-   express concerns related to worker protection;

-   decline to perform an assigned task because of a reasonable belief
    that, under the circumstances, the task poses imminent risk;

-   have access to DOE worker protection publications;

-   observe monitoring and measuring of hazardous agents and have access
    to the results of exposure monitoring;

-   be notified when monitoring results indicate you were overexposed to
    hazardous materials; and

-   receive results of inspections and accident investigations upon
    request.

## 4.2.1 Your Responsibilities

You are responsible for:

-   observing all occupational safety and health standards and
    regulations that apply to your work;

-   stopping work when you discover imminent danger conditions or other
    serious hazards;

-   reporting hazardous conditions promptly;

-   responding to warning signals that may be activated in the event of
    fire, high radiation levels, or other emergencies; and

-   reporting emergencies using established procedures.

# 4.3 Government Property

Government property may be used only for official government purposes.
Property includes computers and software, copying and facsimile
machines, interoffice and electronic mail services, telephones, and
vehicles. Necessary local telephone calls are allowed, but they must be
short and infrequent.

# 4.4 Smoking on LANL Property

Smoking is prohibited inside all buildings located at LANL. Smoking is
not allowed in government vehicles, taxis, or aircraft. Smoking is
prohibited within 20 feet of doors or operable windows of LANL
buildings. Outdoor smoking is allowed if it does not present a fire
hazard, and smoking material is extinguished and disposed of in an
appropriate receptacle.

# 4.5 Harassment Prevention

The Laboratory is committed to take reasonable steps to provide a work
environment free from all forms of harassment on the basis of sex or any
other legally protected category. Other protected categories include
race, color, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability,
age, medical condition (cancer-related or genetic characteristics),
ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, or certain status as a
veteran. Report complaints of harassment to your local host, instrument
scientist, and/or the Staff Relations Group at 7-8730.

# 4.6 Workplace Violence

Violent behavior and threats of violence are prohibited. If you believe
that immediate action is required to respond to a threat to life or to a
situation that could result in serious bodily harm, call 911 and then
notify the appropriate supervisor.

# 5.0 Accessing TA-53

## 5.0.1 Random Searches

LANL security personnel perform random searches of persons, buildings,
parking lots, and other areas to help maintain a safe, drug-free
workplace and to prevent theft of government property.

You and your vehicle are subject to search while at LANL. If you are
asked to stop for a vehicle search when leaving TA-53 you are required
to stop and cooperate fully with the security personnel.

## 5.0.2 Prohibited Items

Firearms, explosives, and other instruments or materials likely to cause
personal injury or property damage are not allowed in LANL-operated
facilities unless they are government property or are specifically
authorized.

## 5.0.3 Controlled Items

Personal items such as cameras, cellular telephones, copying or
reproduction devices, recording or transmitting devices, computers,
software, and peripherals are admitted only if specifically authorized.
Check with your local host or instrument scientist before bringing these
items onto LANL property.

# 5.1 Special Access Needs 

If you are undergoing any internal medical radionuclide therapy, please
report this to the LANSCE User Office before you arrive, or as soon as
you complete your User training. The radiation detection monitor at the
main gate is very sensitive, and may sound the alarm as you leave TA-53.
It may be necessary for Health Physics personnel to meet you at the main
gate whenever you leave the area. Additionally, the Dosimetry Services
Group, HSR-12, may need to correct readings from your dosimeter badges.

A woman who is pregnant is encouraged to declare her pregnancy to the
User Office before going into an experimental area or the accelerator
complex when radiological hazards exist. Declared pregnant workers
receive advice and recommendations about radiation exposures from the
Reproductive Health Hazards Program (RHHP), which is managed by the
Laboratory's Dosimetry Services Group, HSR-12. A flyer with additional
contact information can be found at the LANSCE Training Office in MPF-1.

## 5.2 Access Controls (Entering and Exiting the Main Gate)

Follow these steps for driving into the LANSCE site and going to the
Visitor Center.

*This information assume you may be taking this training at a computer
outside of TA-53.*

### 5.2.1 If you are a United States citizen:

1)  Stop at the TA-53/LANSCE guard gate on La Mesita Road, off of East
    Jemez Road.

2)  Show photo identification to the guard at the gate. The guard will
    confirm that the User Office expects you. If the guard does not have
    your name on the list, pull over and park in the area next to the
    guard gate. Use the telephone outside the guard gate and dial 5-1010
    (the User Office). If there is little traffic, the guard can call
    for you.

3)  Drive to the User Office in Building 1, which is the first building
    on the left, approximately 0.3 miles from the guard gate. The User
    Office provides badges and other necessary material and will direct
    you to the Training Office for training.

### 5.2.2 If you are a non-United States citizen (Foreign National)

1)  You must go the Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) Badge Office
    at TA-3, building 200 (the Otowi Building), and receive an official
    picture identification badge before driving to LANSCE

2)  Stop at the TA-53/LANSCE guard gate on La Mesita Road, off of East
    Jemez Road

3)  Show your LANL picture identification badge to the guard. Wait until
    the guard directs you to continue.

4)  Drive to Building 1, which is the first building on the left
    approximately 0.3 miles from the guard gate. The User Office
    provides materials and other necessary material and will direct you
    to the Training Office for required training.

Every time you enter LANSCE during normal work hours (6:30 a.m. to 6:30
p.m., Monday - Friday) you are required to stop at the guard gate and
show your official identification badge.

### 5.2.3 Entering TA-53 when the main gates are closed

After normal LANL work hours or on weekends, the main gate is closed and
there is no guard at the guard station. A badge reader is located just
past the guard station. Open the gate from your car by running your
badge through the reader. Be sure the magnetic strip on the back of your
badge faces the right-hand side of the badge reader. The badge reader
automatically opens the gate when it reads the code on the magnetic
strip on your badge. If the gate does not open call the number posted by
the badge reader for assistance.

The gate closes immediately after your car passes through.

Do not try to follow another car through an open gate; the gate may
close and damage your car. If another car enters the gate before you,
you must still run your badge through the badge reader before
proceeding.

### 5.2.4 Exiting TA-53 when the main gates are closed

When exiting TA-53 after normal work hours you should run your badge
through the badge reader to open the gate. If for some reason that does
not work there is a green button next to the exit badge reader that will
open the gate. The gate closes immediately after your car passes
through.

Do not try to follow another car through an open gate; the gate may
close and damage your car. If another car enters the gate before you,
you must still run your badge through the badge reader or press the
green button before proceeding.

### 5.2.5 If you set off the gate alarm while exiting TA-53:

-   Pull into the parking lot across from the guard station.

-   Use the telephone near the gate to call the Health Physics Office
    (the number is posted near the telephone).

The alarm is part of the radiation-detection system at the main exit
gate. If the system detects radiation as your vehicle leaves the site,
the alarm will sound. A camera takes a photo of any vehicle that causes
an alarm. Pull over and wait in the parking lot for Health Physics
personnel.

### 5.2.6 Access Control for Buildings

LANSCE controls access to many buildings and experimental areas with
badge readers. Once you complete the required training for unescorted
building access, the Training Office enters your badge into the badge
reader systems for the appropriate buildings. Each person who enters a
door with a badge reader must run his or her badge through the
badge-reader. If there is a badge reader on the exit side of the door
you must also run your badge through the badge reader when you exit,
except in the case of an emergency evacuation. Do not allow others to
follow you through the door without running their badge through the
badge reader unless you can verify that they have the appropriate
training.

# 6.0 Tag Your Bag

One of your first tasks when you arrive is to tag all bags (briefcases,
laptop cases, etc.) you bring to LANL. The LANSCE Training Office
maintains a supply of tags for your convenience. Be sure the tag
includes your name and a telephone number where LANL personnel can reach
you while you are at LANL. LANL considers untagged bags to be safety and
security hazards. Therefore, it is important that you do not leave your
bags unattended and if you do so, that they are tagged. Untagged,
unattended bags may be destroyed by security personnel.

# 7.0 Working Safely

Like work done all over the lab, all work done in LANSCE must follow the
5 step Integrated Safety Management (ISM) Process.

**Step 1: Define the Work**

The scope of all work at LANL, including the startup activities, must be
defined by prioritizing tasks and setting performance expectations. Once
the work is defined, hazards need to be analyzed.

**Step 2: Hazard Analysis**

Each hazard must be identified and thoroughly examined. Reviewing these
hazards results in the design and development of controls to reduce or
eliminate the hazard.

**Step 3: Develop Controls**

Hazard controls are divided into two categories -- Engineering Controls
and Administrative Controls.

-   Engineering Controls are physically built-in controls to lessen or
    alleviate the potential for accidents.

    -   Examples of engineering controls include

        -   the radiation monitoring system that has been installed.
            These monitors are a hard wired part of the run permit
            system and if there is a sudden increase in radiation dose
            rates beyond the alarm set point they will cause the beam to
            shut off,

        -   shielding to reduce dose rates, and

        -   the badge reader system to control access to certain
            hazardous areas.

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-   Administrative controls are non-physical controls such as policies,
    procedures, postings, or training.

**Steps 4-5: Perform the Work within Security Controls & Feedback and
Improvement**

The work must be performed in a safe and secure manner, and the work
must be evaluated for potential improvement.

# 8.0 Work and Worker Authorization

As part of the experimental review process, LANSCE safety staff and line
managers review your proposal to ensure that appropriate hazard controls
are in place. Your host group line manager authorizes your experiment to
take place (Work Authorization). Your host group line manager authorizes
you, the experimenter, to perform the work described in your proposal
(Worker Authorization). Do not deviate from your work scope without
consulting with your host, local contact, or the instrument staff.

# 9.0 Stop Work

You have the right, authority, and the responsibility to stop work when
an activity presents an immediate safety or security concern. If you see
a person performing work in an unsafe manner, or in a manner that may
result in a security infraction, take action.

-   Talk to the person and explain your concern.

-   If the person does not agree with you, and you still think the
    activity is unsafe , notify your host, local contact, or instrument
    responsible.

# 10.0 General Expectations in Experimental Areas

## 10.1 Wear Appropriate Footwear

When working in experimental areas or anywhere along the primary beam
lines, wear appropriate footwear. At a minimum appropriate footwear
means, closed-toe/ closed-heel shoes that cover your entire foot. **No
sandals are allowed in experimental areas**.

## 10.2 Do Not Eat or Drink in Experimental Areas/Beam Lines

Do not carry food, tobacco or cosmetic products into experimental areas,
or in any beam line. Eating and drinking is prohibited in experimental
areas, primarily as a contamination control measure. Drinking water is
available for workers in Experimental Room 2 (ER-2) of the Lujan Center.

## [10.3 Read Postings]{.mark}

TA-53 posts hazard warning signs at area entrances and exits to alert
you to hazards and necessary precautions. The most common postings are
for radiation, electrical hazards, confined spaces, magnetic fields,
noise, and some chemicals such as lead, mercury or beryllium. If
multiple hazards are present in an area, there will be multiple
postings.

**Look carefully at all the postings in an area before you enter or
exit**. **Read all of the postings each day. Conditions in the
experimental areas may change frequently.**

# 11.0 Hazards and Response

The following sections describe general hazards at LANSCE, how they are
controlled, and how to respond to them. Your local contact or instrument
responsible will help you understand unique hazards applicable to the
work you perform here.

## 11.1 Electrical Hazards.

Electrical hazards are some of the greatest hazards at LANSCE. As a
User, you are allowed to use computer workstations, photocopiers, and
Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) approved equipment. For
any other electrical work, consult with your host. If you bring non-NRTL
electrical equipment with you, you must work with your host group to
have an Electrical Safety Officer (ESO) inspect it before you use it.

### 11.1.1 Lockout/Tagout

We use red locks and tags to control electrical hazards. Red locks and
tags prevent injury to workers during maintenance or the servicing of
electrical equipment and other hazardous energy sources.

-   NEVER remove or by-pass locks or tags of any color.

-   Do not try to use equipment that has a lock or tag attached.

-   The only person who can remove a lock or tag is the person who put
    them on.

### 11.1.2 Electrical Accidents

If you see an electrical accident involving a worker, follow the steps
listed below.

1.  **DO NOT** attempt to rescue a victim from a live circuit.

2.  De-energize circuit if you can do it quickly and safely.\
    Examples include turning off a power switch, pulling out a small
    power plug, or activating a red Emergency System Shutdown (locally
    referred to as a SCRAM switch).

3.  Call 911 to request medical help.

4.  If the circuit has been de-energized, provide first aid if you are
    qualified. Defibrillators are available in many areas.

5.  Notify your host and/or host group office. The host and/or host
    group office will be responsible for contacting additional personnel
    if necessary.

6.  Remain at the scene until emergency personnel arrives.

## 11.2 Radiation Hazards.

Four main types of ionizing radiation result from the operation of the
LANSCE accelerator:

-   neutron,

-   beta,

-   gamma, and

-   x-ray

Occasionally we have alpha-radiation hazards when workers use
alpha-emitting radionuclides for experiments or from residual radiation
in targets.

Depending upon your work and the areas you will access at LANSCE, you
will receive Radiological Worker (RW) or General Employee Radiological
Training (GERT). The training describes general radiation hazards and
controls.

### 11.2.1 ALARA

Everyone at TA-53 commits to keeping radiation exposures As Low As
Reasonably Achievable (ALARA). ALARA is designed into our systems and
operations, but each individual is responsible for thinking about their
actions to keep their radiation exposures ALARA. The basic strategy for
ALARA involves efficient use of time, distance, and shielding to limit
exposure to radiation sources.

-   Minimize your time in the area of a source of ionizing radiation.

-   Maximize your distance from a source of ionizing radiation.

-   Use shielding, where appropriate, to reduce your exposure to a
    source of ionizing radiation.

### 11.2.2 Dosimetry

#### 11.2.2.1 Thermoluminescent Dosimeter

LANL uses various dosimeters to monitor a worker's exposure to external
radiation. The LANSCE User Office in Building MPF-1 will issues you a
temporary thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) after you complete your
training requirements. The TLD measures beta, gamma, x-ray, and low- to
mid-energy neutron radiation doses.

[Add picture of TLD]{.mark}

Wear your TLD above the waist, with the silver foils facing outward, at
all times while at LANSCE. Do not leave it on your car dashboard because
heat may affect the dose reading. At the end of your visit, return your
dosimeter(s) to the User Office in Building MPF-1.

If you accidentally take your TLD with you when you leave, and it goes
through a X-ray device at the airport, include a note about the exposure
when you mail the TLD back to the User Office. X-ray devices at airports
may cause a significant dose to be recorded on your TLD.

#### 11.2.2.2 Personal Neutron Dosimeter

When you are here for an experiment, you will also receive a PN-3
Personal Neutron Dosimeter (PND), which is sometimes referred to as a
lemon badge. The PND measures neutron radiation energies greater than
200 keV (thousand electron volts).

[Add picture of]{.mark} PND

Wear your PND above the waist, beside your TLD, with the flat side
against your chest, at all times in experimental areas.

### 11.2.3 RWPs

At times, Radiological Work Permits (RWPs) are used to establish
controls for certain activities and are posted at access control points.
If you are assigned to perform a job governed by an RWP, review the
document to learn about the task-specific radiological conditions and
controls before performing the work. If you have any questions about the
information on an RWP, talk to a Radiological Control Technician (RCT).

### 11.2.4 Health Physics Contacts

During accelerator operation, the LANSCE Health Physics Field Office is
staffed by RCTs twenty-four hours a day. If you need an RCT and cannot
find one in the immediate area, contact the Central Control Room (CCR)
at 7-5729 to page an RCT or call 7-7069.

### 11.2.5 Albatross Neutron Detectors

The neutron detectors currently used in the Lujan Center Experimental
Room 1 (ER-1), and the WNR facility, are Health Physics Instruments
model 2080s, known locally as the Albatross.

Albatross neutron monitors are secondary protection and are used to
detect unwanted increases in neutron dose rates. In some of the
experimental areas the Albatrosses are connected to the run-permit
system and at certain predetermined dose rates, the monitors will turn
off the accelerator beam.

All of the protection systems are fully checked before beam delivery
begins to any area; and once normal beam delivery is established,
critical elements of the systems are checked weekly.

**Note:** The Albatrosses are located to provide the fastest response to
an unexpected rise in neutron radiation. DO NOT move the Albatrosses. If
it is in your way when you are moving equipment, notify a HSR-1
representative to have it temporarily located.

Albatross Light Readout

Even before you approach an Albatross to check the digital read-out, you
should be aware of the status of the illuminated lights.

Albatross lights and responses

+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| Status of lights:   | What it means:          | Your response:      |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| Flashing green      | 0 to 2 mrem/hr neutron  | -   Continue your   |
| light               | dose rate.              |     work as usual.  |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| Flashing orange     | 3 to 19 mrem/hr dose    | -   Check digital   |
| light               | rate                    |     display         |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   If the dose     |
|                     |                         |     rate is rising  |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Exit the    |
|                     |                         |         area        |
|                     |                         |         immediately |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Call CCR    |
|                     |                         |         (7-5729)    |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   If the dose     |
|                     |                         |     rate is         |
|                     |                         |     changing slowly |
|                     |                         |     or not at all:  |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Put your    |
|                     |                         |         work in a   |
|                     |                         |         safe        |
|                     |                         |         condition   |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Exit the    |
|                     |                         |         area (I     |
|                     |                         |         don't think |
|                     |                         |         people      |
|                     |                         |         should      |
|                     |                         |         evacuate    |
|                     |                         |         the area    |
|                     |                         |         when the    |
|                     |                         |         albatross   |
|                     |                         |         is flashing |
|                     |                         |         orange      |
|                     |                         |         since we    |
|                     |                         |         have        |
|                     |                         |         several     |
|                     |                         |         location    |
|                     |                         |         where that  |
|                     |                         |         is a        |
|                     |                         |         routine     |
|                     |                         |         condition). |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Call CCR    |
|                     |                         |         (7-5729)    |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| Flashing red light  | 20 mrem or higher dose  | -   Check digital   |
|                     | rate                    |     display         |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   If the dose     |
|                     |                         |     rate is rising  |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Exit the    |
|                     |                         |         area        |
|                     |                         |         immediately |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Call CCR    |
|                     |                         |         (7-5729)    |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   If the dose     |
|                     |                         |     rate is         |
|                     |                         |     changing slowly |
|                     |                         |     or not at all:  |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Put your    |
|                     |                         |         work in a   |
|                     |                         |         safe        |
|                     |                         |         condition   |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Exit the    |
|                     |                         |         area        |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         |     -   Call CCR    |
|                     |                         |         (7-5729)    |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| All three lights    | Alarm trip point on the | -   Exit the area   |
| flashing and the    | Albatross has been      |     immediately     |
| auditable alarm     | exceeded.               |                     |
| sounding            |                         | -   Call CCR        |
|                     |                         |     (7-5729)        |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| All three lights on | The Albatross has       | -   Exit the area   |
| and steady, the     | detected a very rapid   |     immediately     |
| digital display     | rise in the neutron     |                     |
| reads "FAST TRIP",  | dose rate in the area.  | -   Call CCR        |
| and the auditable   |                         |     (7-5729)        |
| alarm is sounding   |                         |                     |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| Display reads       | The Albatross is not    | -   Exit the area   |
| "FAIL"              | functioning properly.   |     immediately     |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   Call CCR        |
|                     |                         |     (7-5729)        |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| Display is blank    | The Albatross is not    | -   Exit the area   |
|                     | functioning properly.   |     immediately     |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   Call CCR        |
|                     |                         |     (7-5729)        |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+
| No lights on or     | The Albatross is not    | -   Exit the area   |
| flashing            | functioning properly.   |     immediately     |
|                     |                         |                     |
|                     |                         | -   Call CCR        |
|                     |                         |     (7-5729)        |
+---------------------+-------------------------+---------------------+

**Never Turn an Albatross Off**

You should never turn an Albatross off. The instrument may be tied to
the Run Permit, and will stop the accelerator beam if it is turned off,
has a system fault, or if the Albatross alarms.

## 11.3 Radioactive Material Hazards.

Volume-contaminated or -activated material is the most common type of
radioactive material at LANSCE. When particle beams or secondary
particles interact with material, the material may become radioactive
throughout. We call this material "volume contaminated" or "activated."
The material may remain volume contaminated for minutes, several weeks,
or longer. Volume contaminated material could include samples,
experimental apparatus, beam-line components, targets, shielding, and
other materials.

We follow administrative controls for handling and moving
volume-contaminated material. Examples of entry and exit postings you
may see in an experimental area are shown below.

[REPLACE WITH ACTUAL SIGN]{.mark}

![](media/image1.jpeg){width="6.440277777777778in"
height="2.4166666666666665in"}

These postings communicate several things.

-   First, there is a reasonable potential for volume-contaminated
    materials in the area. The materials are usually not individually
    labeled as radioactive material as long as they remain in the area.

-   Second, it states that you must wear a TLD dosimeter and complete
    radiation training before entering.

-   Third, it means that before removing any item (including a sample),
    you must contact an RCT (7-7069) to survey and tag the item with a
    label if it was in the room during beam operation. For specific
    instructions on how to get a sample surveyed and the appropriate
    label to use, see section II, (for WNR) or section III, (for Lujan
    Center).

Once the RCT gets the survey results, he or she will replace the label
with a "Health Physics Release Tag" or a "Health Physics Radioactive
Materials Survey Tag." Examples of the front and back of these tags are
shown below.

![](media/image2.jpeg){width="6.020833333333333in"
height="7.545138888888889in"}

**[Separate the pictures of these two tags so we can comment on them
seperately]{.mark}**

A "Health Physics Release Tag" means that you may remove the item to an
uncontrolled area or from LANL.

A "Health Physics Radioactive Materials Survey Tag" indicates two
things:

1)  the item is radioactive, and

2)  it may only be moved to another Radiological Controlled Area (RCA).

The following are additional rules you should be aware of when dealing
with items that have a "Health Physics Radioactive Materials Survey Tag"
attached:

-   Do not store the item(s) in uncontrolled areas.

    -   Only an RCT may remove the tag(s).

    -   Do not remove an item until the RCT places a release tag on the
        object.

    -   Make an arrangement with your host or local contact for
        returning items that cannot be released before your scheduled
        departure.

    -   Store activated (volume-contaminated) equipment and samples in a
        Radioactive Material Area (RMA) between uses or while waiting
        for radioactivity levels to drop enough so LANSCE can ship them
        back to you.

    -   Radioactive materials must be shipped according to Department of
        Transportation regulations.

Sometimes workers move items, such as samples or equipment, from an area
where volume-contamination is possible to another location within an
RCA. It is important to preserve the knowledge of a process about the
item. Have an RCT survey the item and, if appropriate, tag it with a
"Health Physics Release Tag" or a "Health Physics Radioactive Materials
Survey Tag."

## 11.4 External Radiation Hazards.

We control many areas for external radiation. If an RCA does not have
the potential for contamination, we use the following posting:

[REPLACE WITH ACTUAL SIGN]{.mark}

**Controlled for External Radiation ENTRY REQUIREMENTS**

> TLD Dosimeter Badge and PN-3 Badge

GERT or RAD Training

\*\*There may be EXIT REQUIREMENTS, check and follow any postings.\*\*

The posting communicates three things.

-   First, there is the potential for external radiation exposure in the
    area and that you must wear a TLD and a PN-3.

-   Second, you must complete radiation training before entering.

-   Third, it indicates that there may be exit requirements depending
    upon the situation; if there are any, they will be posted in the
    same location.

### 11.4.1 Line D Potential Radiation Hazard on La Mesita Road.

An accelerator beam line passes under a short section of La Mesita Road
(the main road through LANSCE). In the event of a beam-spill accident,
there is a chance that dose rates in the area could exceed 25 rem per
hour. Do not loiter in the area while the beam is on. A sign states, "No
Stopping Next 50 Feet." You will notice shielding blocks line both sides
of the road in that area.

### 11.5. Surface Contamination Hazards.

On rare occasions, Users may enter one of the few areas we control for
surface contamination. An example of such an area is the Blue Room at
WNR. We use the following posting:

[REPLACE WITH ACTUAL SIGN]{.mark}

> **Controlled for Surface Contamination**
>
> **ENTRY REQUIREMENTS**
>
> TLD Dosimeter Badge
>
> RAD Training 
>
> Protective Clothing
>
> RWP

**EXIT REQUIREMENTS**

Every item and every person MUST be surveyed by an RCT.

The posting communicates three things.

-   First, there is the potential that equipment, instruments, etc., in
    the room may have surface contamination.

-   Second, it states that you must wear a TLD and protective clothing,
    such as booties, coveralls gloves, etc., and that you must complete
    radiation training before entering.

-   Third, to control spreading contamination to other areas, an RCT
    must survey everything, including people, as they leave the area.

-   Additionally, an RWP will list the specific requirements.

Each entry or exit posting addresses one hazard. If multiple hazards are
present in an area, there will be multiple postings. Look carefully at
all the postings in an area.

### 11.6 Contamination Portal Monitor

The Portal Monitor located at the exit to Experimental Room 2 (ER-2) of
the Lujan Center is used to quickly determine if you are unintentionally
caring a radioactive item, or have picked up any radioactive
contamination on your cloths or skin while in one of these experimental
areas.

**11.6.1 Portal Monitor Use:**

-   Approach the monitor.

-   Above the Portal Monitor there is a green light that indicates the
    monitor ready status.

-   Step up into the Portal Monitor.

-   If you are not contaminated, you will hear two soft beeps. **Exit
    the monitor immediately.**

-   If you are contaminated, the alarm will sound.

-   If you are contaminated, do not leave the monitoring area as you may
    spread the contamination. **Follow the instructions below.**

### 11.6.2 Response to Portal Monitor Alarms

If the Portal Monitor starts to alarm while you are using it:

1)  Stay in the area.

2)  Call an RCT at 7-7069. The number is posted by the telephone near
    the monitor.

3)  Follow the RCT's instructions.

The Portal Monitor is a sensitive device and can readily detect small
amounts of radon that has adhered to a person's clothing. In particular,
non-natural fibers tend to attract radon. During beam operation, the
levels of radon rise in the experimental rooms and you may pick up some
on your clothing. This radon can set off the alarm on the Portal
Monitor. If the Portal Monitor alarms, it may be radon. Radon is not
considered harmful on the outside of your body. You may try standing in
front of the nearby fan and then try again. If the alarm persists, you
must call an RCT to check you for contamination before leaving the area.

### 11.7 Personnel Contamination Monitor-1 (PCM-1)

The PCM located outside of the WNR Blue Room exit is used to quickly
determine if you are unintentionally caring a radioactive item, or have
picked up any radioactive contamination on your cloths or skin while in
one of these experimental areas.

[Insert the optional video]{.mark}

**11.7.1 PCM Use:**

-   Approach the monitor.

-   Above the PCM entry there is a green LED display that indicates the
    monitor status.

-   The display will usually read, "Counting background ready." This
    means the monitor is ready for use.

-   If the display reads "Mandatory background check, please wait," then
    wait a moment until it displays "Ready" in the right-hand corner of
    the readout.

-   Step up into the PCM. You will be stepping into the monitor sideways
    with your right side facing the monitor.

-   Position your right foot on the grid area on the floor.

-   In the middle of the monitor is an opening to insert your right arm.
    Insert your arm fully

-   At approximately eye-level will be a small flashing red light to
    indicate that the monitor is counting. **Do not remove your arm
    until the red light stops blinking.**

-   The light stops blinking to indicate that the monitor is through
    counting that side.

-   If you are not contaminated, you will hear a soft beep and the
    display will ask you to insert your left arm to repeat the process
    on the left side.

-   If you are contaminated, the alarm will sound and the display will
    give you the zone in which the contamination was detected.

-   If you are contaminated, do not leave the monitoring area as you may
    spread the contamination.

    -   Immediately call for an RCT using the phone next to the PCM.

```{=html}
<!-- -->
```
-   If you are not contaminated, record your results in the logbook
    outside of the PCM chamber.

### 11.7.2 Response to PCM Alarms

If the PCM starts to alarm while you are using it:

4)  Stay in the area.

5)  Call an RCT at 7-7069. The number is posted by the telephone near
    the monitor.

6)  Follow the RCT's instructions.

The PCM is a sensitive device and can readily detect small amounts of
radon that has adhered to a person's clothing. In particular,
non-natural fibers tend to attract radon. During beam operation, the
levels of radon rise in the experimental rooms and you may pick up some
on your clothing. This radon can set off the alarm on the PCM. If the
PCM alarms, it may be radon. Radon is not considered harmful on the
outside of your body. You may try standing in front of the nearby fan
and then try again. If the alarm persists, you must call an RCT to check
you for contamination before leaving the area.

## 1[1.8 Chemical and Chemical Spill Hazards.]{.mark}

If you work directly with hazardous chemicals, you must complete the
LANL institutional training for chemical workers or work under the
supervision of an authorized chemical worker. You may be in a work area
where workers use chemicals. Some of these chemicals may be flammable,
corrosive, poisonous, etc. Every chemical label describes the main
safety hazards. We also keep a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for
each chemical we use. The MSDS describes the hazards associated with the
chemical and the recommended safety precautions to be used when working
with the chemical. All LANL workers who handle hazardous chemicals must
be familiar with the MSDS, receive training, and follow LANL chemical
safety requirements.

If you see a chemical spill, follow these steps:

1)  If the spill is small and you know how to clean it up, you may do so
    if it is safe. Some areas have spill kits which are easy to use.
    (Check with your host for the location of the nearest spill kit.)

2)  Secure safety of yourself and others in the work area.

3)  If it is a large spill call 911.

4)  If the spill is located in a Radiological Area, call an RCT at
    7-7069.

5)  Notify your host or host group office. The host or host group office
    will be responsible for contacting additional personnel if
    necessary.

6)  Prevent spills from entering drains if it is possible to do so
    safely.

## 11.9 Pressure and Vacuum.

Instruments in experimental areas may use vacuum systems to operate or
may require carrier gas. Some experiments and instruments may use
pressure vessels. Only authorized workers, such as the instrument
responsible scientist, can operate, test or maintain such systems.
Always obtain assistance from staff in these circumstances.

## 11.10 Machine and Hand Tools.

We have several machine shops on-site. Typical mechanical hazards are
present. We control these hazards by requiring that users take
machine-specific training and obtain authorization from the shop
supervisor before using a tool. If you require such access, discuss it
with your local contact. Additionally, it is required that you DO NOT
work alone in LANSCE machine shops.

## 11.12 Crane Hazards.

Cranes at TA-53 may only be operated by licensed and authorized crane
operators. Most cranes sound a warning horn when they start operation,
and a light system flashes during operation. If you are in the area of
crane operations, you are required to wear a hard hat. Pick up a hard
hat at the entrances to the building and other designated areas and
return hard hats after use or when exiting the area. Also, maintain a
"cone-of-safety" distance from a raised load; this means your distance
from a suspended load should be equal to or greater than the height of
the load unless you are directly involved in the operation. For example,
if the load is ten feet off the ground, you should be at least ten feet
from the area directly under the load.

## 11.13 Wildlife and Fire Hazards.

**Wildlife:**

Los Alamos borders national forest land where wildlife is abundant.
Wildlife you may encounter include:

-   rattlesnakes

-   mice (some mouse droppings pose a hantavirus threat)

-   scorpions

-   tarantulas

-   black widow spiders

-   bears

-   mountain lions

-   coyotes

-   deer

-   elk

-   brown recluse spiders (not native to this area, but there have been
    reports of people being bitten by one in Los Alamos County)

-   and many others.

Please do not try to deal with any wildlife, but contact the Lujan
Center Building Manager, your local contact, or the KSL pest control
office.

At times, LANL prohibits hiking, biking, running, and other non-work
activities in undeveloped areas around the Laboratory because of
changing fire hazard conditions in the area. Be alert to notices of
changing conditions.

# 12. Abnormal Events and Emergencies

If you see an emergency or incident, such as a fire or a medical
emergency, first ensure your own safety. Call 911 and explain the
situation. Stay on the phone until the 911 operator tells you to hang
up. Then notify your host or local contact.

If you are not sure if an event is an emergency or if you cannot find
your host or contact, call the Emergency Management and Response (EM&R)
Office at 7-6211. For non-emergency events, call your host or contact.

# 13. Responding to Alarms

Check the building emergency evacuation posters in buildings where you
perform work. The posters show evacuation routes and muster areas in
case of an emergency or building-wide alarm. Additional instructions are
provided in Building Emergency Plan Program (BEPP) training.

# 14. Shipping, Transferring or Receiving Nuclear/Radioactive Material

If you need to ship nuclear or radioactive materials to LANSCE, notify
your local contact before shipping them. LANSCE must follow strict
limits on the amount of such material allowed on-site.

Regardless of the level of radioactivity, assume all radioactive
material must be shipped as radioactive material until told otherwise by
a certified shipper. This decreases the probability of accident and the
spread of contamination. Users should ship radioactive materials to
HSR-1 at TA-53 rather than to individual scientists. This helps ensure
that RCTs open, survey, and safely store radioactive material within 8
hours of arrival.

To transfer radioactive material within TA-53, contact an RCT. If you
receive radioactive material from another area, such as samples, sources
or equipment, you must call an RCT before opening the package. The RCT
checks for leakage and determines any appropriate protective measures.

At the conclusion of your experiment, make arrangements to have
activated samples or equipment shipped to you after their radiation
levels are low enough to meet legal transportation requirements.

Ask your host or local contact who your contact is for shipping or
receiving radioactive materials.

# 15. Managing your Waste

Do not simply discard samples, waste or excess material that you
generate as part of your work. Your host group will assist you with the
disposal of waste you produce as part of the experiment. Discuss any
potential waste that you may generate BEFORE you begin work. Please
recycle whenever possible. LANSCE has recycle containers for white
paper, cardboard, and other materials. Never pour any liquid waste down
a drain.

# 16. Returning Dosimeters, Other Badges, and Forms

Return dosimeters, badges, and your completed User Satisfaction Survey
to the LANSCE User Office at the end of your visit. If you leave LANSCE
after business hours, drop them in the box at the gate. If the badge
records a positive dose, LANL will notify you of your dose measurement
within a few weeks.

# 17. You Are Responsible!

Remember, you are responsible for your own safety and the safety of your
coworkers. The safety controls that are in place are only as good as the
people who use them. If you have questions, please ask your host, local
contact or instrument responsible.

Please continue to the appropriate section for the area or areas you
will be working in.

Weapons Neutron Research Facility (WNR) Section II

Lujan Center Section III

# 

# Section II: Specific Information for Users at WNR 

## 1.0 Objectives for WNR Section

At the completion of this section the trainee will be able to:

1.  Recognize the requirements for accessing WNR Target-2 and Target-4
    areas.

2.  Identify the proper steps for removing potentially volume
    contaminated items from Radiological Controlled Areas (RCA).

3.  Identify the meaning of the "Buddy Rule".

## 2.0 General Area Overview

[Insert flight path graphic if we have it.]{.mark}

Line D supplies beam to neutron producing targets in two separate
experimental areas:

-   Lujan Neutron Scattering Center, Target-1 (1L), and

-   Weapons Neutron Research Facility (WNR), Target-2 and Target-4.

At WNR high-energy neutrons and protons are used for basic, applied, and
defense-related research. Two experimental areas are available at WNR.

-   In Target-2, the Blue Room, proton-induced reactions can be studied
    using the

-   At Target-4, the 800-MeV proton beam from the LANSCE accelerator is
    used to produce neutrons that are used to study neutron-induced
    reactions.

Target- 2 and Target- 4 flight paths are labeled by angle and direction
with respect to the incident proton beam.

## 3.0 Accessing WNR Experimental Areas

[Need pictures of the panels]{.mark}

There are specific entry requirements for the various areas at WNR.
While beam is on the area around the Target-4 neutron production target
is an exclusion area under the control of the Experimental area
Personnel Access Control System, or EPACS. This area is secured before
neutron production begins. If you need to conduct an entry or sweep of
the WNR Target-4 Exclusion Area, contact your host for demonstration of
the proper procedure.

Access to the flight path areas is also controlled by EPACS, or the
older version of the access control system, the Personnel Safety System,
or PSS. If you intend to enter an area protected by PSS, first verify
that the shutter is closed. You can verify shutter status by observing
the lights on the PSS master box inside MPF-29, by observing the shutter
status reported on the shutter-control computer terminal inside MPF-29,
or by observing lights and signs at the PSS station for the flight path
you wish to enter.

A special key is used for doors, cabinets, and flight path PSS resets at
WNR. This key is issued to authorized personnel after completing this
training.

Detector sheds on Target-4 flight paths may be entered only when the
flight-path shutter is closed. You cannot get a PSS key release if the
shutter is open. You must take a PSS key inside with you.

To open a shutter, the area must be clear of personnel and the PSS
secured. There are specific WNR procedures that must be followed to
secure the beam areas. Ask your host for assistance if this is
necessary.

The Target-4 exclusion area and Target-2 detector sheds may be entered
only when the Line D beam plugs are inserted. A key or door release
cannot be obtained if the beam plugs are out. You must call the central
control room (CCR) to request insertion of the beam plugs so that beam
is turned off to all areas. Because the beam has to be shut off, entries
must be coordinated with the Experimental Area Manager and other users.

## 4.0 Contacts

### 4.1 Experimental Area Manager (EAM) :

The EAM has ultimate authority over all operations within the WNR
experimental facility and can assist you with identifying any resources
you might need.

The EAM is responsible for coordinating all operations within this
facility. You must have the EAM approve activities involving any
non-trivial change in configuration, as defined in the memoranda of
understanding and relevant procedures concerning any experiment or
operations within the Lujan Center.

It is also the job of the EAM to ensure all operations are performed
within the safety envelope. If you have any questions or concerns about
the safety of your experiment or other operations within the Lujan
Center, be sure to contact the Experimental Area Manager.

Currently, the EAM for WNR is Bruce Takala.

[Picture of Bruce Takala]{.mark}

### 4.2 WNR Safety Officer:

The WNR Safety Officer is your primary point of contact for any safety
related issues that may arise while working in ER-1 or ER-2. Bruce
Takala is the WNR Safety Officer.

### 4.3 Flight Path Scientist:

An Flight Path Scientist (FPS)is a member of the group or collaboration
who coordinates scientific activities on a beam line, flight path, or
instrument within the WNR experimental areas.

The FPS acts as the point of contact for coordination of area-wide
activities that affect or involve the beam line, flight path, or
instrument. Before you begin any work in WNR facilities it is important
that you contact the appropriate FPS. This person is responsible for the
safety of operations on their instrument. FPS can direct you to the EAM
if needed.

Bruce Takala is the Flight Path Scientist for WNR.

## 5.0 Controls and Hazards

Experiments and hazards on flight paths at WNR change constantly, often
with each user group. The following section describes specific hazards
at WNR and how we control them.

### 5.1. Beam Hazards and Controls 

Major radiation hazards exist only when the beam is running. With beam
off, the Blue Room is typically posted as either a Radiation Area or a
Radiological Buffer Area due to activated beam-line components and other
apparatus. We use engineering controls, such as access control systems,
and administrative controls, such as entry requirements, to protect
personnel.

LANSCE uses several personnel access control systems, including the
Experimental area Personnel Access Control System (EPACS) and the older
Personnel Safety System (PSS), to ensure that no one is in a
high-radiation area while the beam is running.

Before beam delivery, an authorized worker secures the flight path by
following a sweep procedure posted for the flight path. Listen for
announcements over the paging system. For example, prior to starting a
sweep in the Blue Room, a sweeper makes the following announcement:

"Personnel safety sweep of the 2D Target (Blue Room) beam channel now in
progress. All personnel leave the 2D Target (Blue Room) beam channel."

When you hear this announcement, place your work in a safe configuration
and leave. The sweep ensures that no person remains in the area during
beam delivery.

The flight path shutter will not open until all the sweep keys are in
place and PSS shows that it is safe. A violation of a PSS shuts down all
beams. While the beam runs, some areas, such as around Target 4 and the
Blue Room, become exclusion areas. This means no entry is allowed at
all.

You cannot enter the Blue Room after accelerator operation until an RCT
and a Control Room Operator make the first entry. During a first entry,
the RCT surveys for highly radioactive spots. Remember, when particles
from the beam interact with material like beam line components, magnets,
or shielding, the material may become radioactive. RCTs look for
activated areas or components and post them so you will know what to try
to stay away from.. Coordinate your work in these areas with your local
contact.

Communicate with the Central Control Room (CCR) before entering the Blue
Room. Be sure to tell the operators at CCR approximately how long you
expect to remain in the Blue Room.

### 5.2. Moving items that are potentially Volume-Contaminated (Activated)

Before you remove any item (including a sample) from a radiological area
controlled for volume or surface contamination, you must contact an RCT
(7-7069) to survey and tag the item. However, an RCT may not be
available to survey an item immediately. It is still important to
preserve knowledge of process about the item. Use the following
"Caution, Radioactive Material" label to mark an item waiting for RCT
survey: When applying the label, be sure to mark the box "Pending RCT
Survey." Get labels from your local contact or instrument scientist. You
should also find a supply of these labels at each flight path.

![](media/image3.jpeg){width="2.5520833333333335in"
height="2.951388888888889in"}

Perform one of the following options to make sure that an RCT surveys
the item before you remove it from an area controlled for volume
contamination:

-    place a "Caution, Radioactive Material" label on the item; or

-    if the item is too small or awkwardly shaped, place the item in a
    container bearing the "Caution, Radioactive Material" label; or

-    place the item (without a label) in a posted Radioactive Material
    Area (RMA). Enter the action in the RMA logbook. Your instrument
    scientist or local contact will show you the logbook.

After surveying the item the RCT checks the "Awaiting Survey Results"
box and initials and dates the label.

### 5.3. Surface Contamination Issues

At times, the Blue Room is posted for surface contamination hazards.
When this hazard is present there is a possibility that you transfer
radioactive material from a surface in the Blue Room to your clothing or
skin. Follow all posted requirements for personal protective equipment
(PPE) and monitoring.

### 5.4. Buddy Rule in Blue Room and Blue Room Basement

When in the Blue Room or its basement, follow the Buddy Rule. The Buddy
Rule is an administrative control to reduce the risk of working alone in
an isolated area. It is strongly recommended that you to maintain hourly
voice or visual contact with another worker. If two workers are together
and one must leave, the departing worker must find someone else to serve
as the buddy.

### 5.5. Egress Issues

The Blue Room has only one exit. Before you perform any work that might
affect the exit path, notify all occupants. This will give them the
opportunity to decide whether they want to stop their work and
temporarily leave the area.

-   Use the Personal Contamination Monitor (PCM) when exiting the Blue
    Room.

In an emergency, exit the area immediately without using the PCMs or
swiping your badge as you exit.

### 5.6. Cryogens

If an experiment in the Blue Room requires the use of cryogens, this
creates two hazards; asphyxiation and exposure to extremely cold and
potentially dangerous materials. Asphyxiation becomes a concern if a
system leaks and cryogenic gases displace air. We control exposure to
this hazard with an engineering control; a low oxygen alarm or a carbon
monoxide alarm. If you hear the alarm, exit the area immediately.

[NEED .wav FILE of LOW O2 ALARM]{.mark}

To protect yourself from cryogenic material burns, you must wear
personal protective equipment when working with such materials. This
includes insulated gloves, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and safety
glasses or face shields for your eyes.

### 5.7. High Explosives

At times, experiments at the Blue Room involve high explosive (HE)
materials. To help control this hazard, we minimize the number of people
allowed in the Blue Room when HE is present and follow requirements of
an Integrated Work Document (IWD). Your local contact will instruct you
on any requirements of an IWD.

### 5.8. Target 4 Tunnel

The Target 4 Tunnel is another area at WNR that requires the application
of the Buddy Rule. Do not enter this area without an approved escort.
Check with the Experimental Area Manager before requesting access tot eh
Target 4 tunnel. [Can we get a picture or video from old RAA?]{.mark}

## 6.0 Conclusion

Working safely is the responsibility of every worker at Los Alamos
National Laboratory. There are a number of hazards always present in WNR
not including those you bring with your experiments or work activities.
Take the time to be sure what you are doing can be accomplished in a
manner that will not result in injury to yourself, your co-workers, the
environment or the reputation of the Laboratory.

# Section III: Specific Information for Users at the Lujan Center 

## 1.0 Objectives for Lujan Center Section

At the completion of this section the trainee will be able to:

1.  Recognize the access requirements for ER-2.

2.  Recognize the access requirements for ER-1 when it is a Limited
    Access Area.

3.  Recognize the procedures for removing samples from ER-2 and ER-1.

4.  Recognize the proper response to a general evacuation alarm,
    including low oxygen alarms, in ER-2 or ER-1.

5.  Recognize the general hazards present in Lujan experimental areas.

## 2.0 General Area Information for the Lujan Center

The Lujan Center has two main experimental rooms: Experimental Room 1
and 2 (ER-1 and ER-2). This section describes important contact
information, specific hazards at the Lujan Center, and how these hazards
are controlled.

The current Experimental Area Manager is Ron Nelson. The Experimental
Area Manager is responsible for ensuring that workers perform operations
within the safety envelope. He/she also coordinates all operations
within the Lujan Center. You must obtain the Experimental Area Manager's
approval before you make any changes to your experimental plan.

The instrument responsible is a Lujan Center staff member who is
responsible for a specific instrument, for activities on a beam line, or
for a flight path. The instrument responsible also coordinates
activities for his/her area. Before you begin work at the Lujan Center,
contact the appropriate instrument responsible. Names and contacts are
in the LANSCE User Guide sent to you prior to your visit or you may
obtain a copy from the User Office.

## 3.0 Accessing Lujan Experimental Areas

### 3.1 Entry Requirements:

Closed toe/closed heeled shoes are required at all times in the
experimental areas. No sandals are allowed.

Access to ER-1 and ER-2 is controlled through a badge reader system. The
badge reader operates as an access control device to ensure only workers
who have completed the required safety training can enter ER-1 and ER-2
unescorted. Badge reader access to ER-2 requires completion of this User
training module and General Employee Radiological Training (GERT). Badge
reader access to ER-1 requires this User training module, Radiological
Worker (RW) training, and the LANSCE User Practical, or equivalent RW
training from another DOE site. You will be enrolled in the appropriate
badge reader by the LANSCE Training Office when you have completed the
required training.

[]{.mark}

#### 3.1.1 ER-2 Access

ER-2 is a Controlled Area with radiation dose rates below 5 millirem per
hour (mr/hr). There are three entrances to ER-2 on the east side of the
Lujan Center, and two entrances from ER-1 on the west side.

You must gain access by swiping your badge through the badge reader at
the access door. Once you have been enrolled into the badge reader, you
will have access until any one of the related training plans expire or a
line manager removes approval for you to be in the badge reader.

When you swipe your badge through the badge reader the door or gate
latch will release and you may enter. Ensure that the door or gate is
completely closed once you have entered to prevent unauthorized
personnel from accessing the area.

Each person entering the area must swipe their badge unless they are
going to be escorted. Untrained visitors must be escorted at all times
in ER-1 and ER-2 by personnel who are current in the access
requirements. **Users may not act as escorts for other Users.**

NOTE: It is normal practice to remove Users from the badge reader 10
days after the expected completion of their stay unless the LANSCE
Training Office is notified otherwise by the User's host.

While you are working in the Lujan Center you will notice roll-up doors
on the east side of ER-2. These doors are used to control access to the
facility for large equipment. The perimeter fence has two badge readers
to prevent unauthorized access to the doors when they are open and
unattended. There will usually be a barrier across the rollup doors when
they are open and unattended. **Do not use these doors for personnel
access.** Use one of the doors that have a badge reader.

When beam is not being delivered to the Lujan Center, ER-1 is still a
controlled area and access requirements are similar to those for ER-2.

#### 3.1.2 ER-1 as a Limited Access Area:

When the beam is ON, ER-1 becomes a Radiation Area, because ambient dose
rates can be between 5-100 mr/hr. (The typical radiation field is less
than 5 mr/hr in most of ER-1, and under normal circumstances the maximum
field is approximately 15 mr/hr.) This means that to work in ER-1, you
must have current Radiological Worker (RW) Training, as well as this
User training module. Users who need RW training receive a version of
LANSCE-specific practical. This practical is not transferable to any
other LANL or DOE facility.

ER-1 is considered a Limited Access Area when beam is ON because of its
close proximity to the proton beam delivery lines going to the 1L target
and Weapons Neutron Research (WNR) facility. The potential for elevated
radiation dose rates during abnormal operating conditions requires
access to this area be limited. Because normal radiation dose rates are
low, workers may enter ER-1 during normal beam operations.

The beam flows from north to south into the WNR facility above the west
wall of ER-1. A spill of the WNR beam into the beam pipe wall could
result in elevated dose rates in ER-1, especially on the west side of
the room. This hazard is controlled by engineered protection that
includes shielding and Albatrosses tied to the run permit system for the
beam. Because of these controls, a significant exposure to workers is
unlikely.

Untrained workers or visitors must be escorted into ER-1 by trained
personnel. The escort must complete the Limited Access Area Entry
Request and Hazard Acknowledgment form (available in the LANSCE-12 Group
Office or 53 FIR 402-701-01, *Limited Access Areas*). Users may not act
as escorts.

Workers who violate the Limited Access Area rules for entry may be
subject to the following penalties: (53FIR 402-701-01, Section 7.5)

-   First offense --- warning and oral counseling from line management

-   Second Offense --- loss of Limited Access Area authorization and
    (for Los Alamos employees) memo to personnel file

-   Third offense --- loss of experimental area privileges and (for Los
    Alamos employees) disciplinary action

**Exit Requirements:**

-   As you exit ER-1, **you must swipe your badge through the badge
    reader.** (53 FIR 402-701-01, *Limited Access Areas*)

-   Use the portal monitor when exiting ER-2.

    -   If the portal monitor is not operational use the Personal
        Contamination Monitor (PCM) when exiting ER-2.

-   Alternatively, if you exit from the west side of ER-1 (up the steep
    stairs), then you shall use the PCM at the top of the stairs leading
    to the WNR facility.

In an emergency, exit the area immediately without using the PCMs or
swiping your badge as you exit. The doors in all the Limited Access
Areas are equipped with crash bars for easy egress.

## 4.0 Removing Samples or Equipment from ER-1 and ER-2:

### 4.1 ER-2

Before removing any item from ER-2 that has been in or near the neutron
beam and may have become activated, it must be monitored by an RCT.

-   Wear gloves when handling samples exposed to the beam. Gloves are
    available at every instrument and at the RCT survey table on the
    east side of ER-2.

-   The item must be brought to the RCT station located near the PCM in
    ER-2 to be monitored.

-   Labels to mark the samples are available from the RCT station
    located on the east side of ER-2.

    -   If there are no labels at the RCT station, and an RCT is not
        available, you can obtain a label from Lelanie Conradson (pager
        #8-996-0092).

> ![](media/image4.jpeg){width="5.938888888888889in"
> height="1.5881944444444445in"}

-   Label the sample/item to identify ownership.

-   Place the sample/item in the cabinet marked "sample/item in box" or
    have it directly tagged (for large items) by the RCT.

After monitoring, the RCT will retag the item appropriately. Items that
have not been in the neutron beam fall under the category of "acceptable
knowledge"---that is, if the owner knows the history of the item and is
certain that it could not be activated or contaminated and is willing to
take responsibility for not having the item monitored, then the item may
be removed from ER-2 without monitoring.

### 4.2 ER-1

Because of the proximity of the ER-1 experimental chambers to the
primary beam line and the 1L Target, samples exposed to the beam in ER-1
have a much higher activation potential.

-   It is a good practice to notify an RCT **BEFORE** removing a sample
    from a beam line in ER-1 or an item that has been in the beam line
    from ER-1.

-   Wear gloves when handling samples exposed to the beam.

-   Whenever possible, an RCT should survey the sample as soon as it is
    removed.

-   If you cannot find an RCT:

    -   Treat the sample as radioactive

    -   Label the sample as described in the ER-2 section above

    -   Place it in the Lucite sample box at the RCT station on the east
        side of ER-2

### 4.3 Shipping Samples Off TA-53

An item that may have become activated that needs to be shipped to
another LANL facility outside of TA-53 or off-site must be packaged and
transported in accordance with Department of Transportation (D.O.T.)
regulations. Contact your host for assistance.

## 5.0 Emergency Evacuation:

[Need to try to get .wav file of gamma alarm]{.mark}

IF there is an airborne release of radioactive material from the Lujan
target, a nearby gamma detector will alarm. If this gamma detector alarm
should sound, you must proceed to the nearest Shelter-in-Place, which is
the Lujan Center auditorium for ER-1 and ER-2 occupants.

-   Do not badge out of ER-1 or use the PCM in ER-2.

-   Immediately evacuate the Experimental Areas.

-   A Shelter-in-Place procedure is located in the auditorium.

-   The procedure gives you:

    -   instructions to remain in the room or building,

    -   information on how to shutdown the ventilation system to avoid
        potential contamination, and

    -   a checklist for Sheltering-in-Place.

-   You must remain in this room until given further instructions by
    line management

## 6.0 Contacts

[Insert picture and contact information for current EAM]{.mark}

### 6.1 Experimental Area Manager (EAM) :

In spring 1999, LANSCE initiated the concept of an Experimental Area
Manager (EAM) for each experimental area to help better coordinate
operations within the user facility. At the same time, we redefined the
role of the Instrument Responsible. The EAM has ultimate authority over
all operations within the Lujan Center and can assist you with
identifying any resources you might need.

The EAM is responsible for coordinating all operations within this
facility. The EAM must approve activities involving any non-trivial
change in configuration, as defined in the memoranda of understanding
and relevant procedures concerning any experiment or operations within
the Lujan Center.

It is also the job of the EAM to ensure all operations are performed
within the safety envelope. If you have any questions or concerns about
the safety of your experiment or other operations within the Lujan
Center, be sure to contact the Experimental Area Manager.

### 6.2 Instrument Responsible:

An Instrument Responsible is a member of the group or collaboration who
coordinates scientific activities on a beam line, flight path, or
instrument within the Lujan Center experimental areas.

The Instrument Responsible and Technicians act as the points of contact
for coordination of area-wide activities that affect or involve the beam
line, flight path, or instrument. Before you begin any work in ER-1 or
ER-2 it is important that you contact the appropriate Instrument
Responsible. This person is responsible for the safety of operations on
their instrument. The Instrument Responsible can direct you to the EAM
if needed.

[Insert picture and contact information for current Safety Officer this
may be Paul Lewis also.]{.mark}

### 6.3 Lujan Center Safety Officer:

The Lujan Center Safety Officer is your primary point of contact for any
safety related issues that may arise while working in ER-1 or ER-2.

[Insert picture and contact information for current LCEC
(Leilani)]{.mark}

### 6.4 Lujan Center Experiment Coordinator:

The Experiment Coordinator (EC) assists users in technical and certain
administrative needs for their experiments. The EC performs user
orientation, helps in shipping samples and equipment, and coordinates
security issues associated with the user program.

## 7.0 Hazards

The types of hazards present in both ER-1 and ER-2 include, but are not
limited to:

-   Chemical

-   Nuclear materials

-   External radiation

-   Radioactive contamination

-   Electrical

-   Crane operations

-   Forklift operations

-   Low ceilings

-   Falls/tripping

-   Hazardous materials

-   Machine tools

-   Confined spaces

-   Cryogenic fluids

-   High pressures

-   Vacuum

-   Fire

### 7.1 Prompt Radiation Controls in Instrument Caves

Many instrument enclosures (caves) use an access control system, called
the Experimental Area Personnel Access Control System (EPACS), to
control access during beam operation. The EPACS is a hardware system
that includes interlocks and sets of special keys that prevent personnel
from entering instrument caves when the beam shutters are open for that
flight path. Users must receive instructions on the use of the EPACS
system before operating a flight path shutter. This instruction will be
provided by the instrument scientist.

### 7.2 Tungsten Oxide Hazard

Water is used to cool the 1L tungsten neutron-production target. In the
event that all of the many safety systems fail, it is possible that the
tungsten target could sublime (vaporize and reform as an airborne
solid). The oxide powder is radioactive; if it disperses into the
ventilation system and gets through the High Efficiency Particulate Air
(HEPA) filter, it is hazardous to breathe.

A gamma detector near the HEPA filter sounds if there is possible
airborne contamination from 1L Target. The CCR will make an announcement
if it is necessary to take action. If an announcement is made, follow
these steps:

  ----------- -----------------------------------------------------------
  **Steps**   **Action**

  1           Exit ER-1 and ER-2.

              **Note: Do NOT use the personnel contamination monitor as
              you exit ER-2.**

  2           Proceed to the shelter-in-place location, the Lujan Center
              Auditorium on the second floor.

  3           Follow the posted checklist at the shelter- in- place.

  4           Remain in the Lujan Center Auditorium until an Experimental
              Area Manager or designee releases you.
  ----------- -----------------------------------------------------------

### 7.3 Chemical:

While you are working in ER-1 and ER-2:

-   DO NOT pour any chemical or other liquid down any drain in ER-1 or
    ER-2.

-   If you have any questions about the chemicals or liquids you are
    using, you can ask your local contact, the EAM, or the Lujan Center
    Safety Officer for assistance.

-   All original, authorized Integrated Work Documents (IWDs) are
    available in the office of the Lujan Center Experiment Coordinator.
    The lead experimenter fills out a proposal that goes to committee.
    Committee and users work together to ensure all parameters of
    experiment are well defined. This includes safety and goals for the
    experiment.

    -   Copies of these documents are available at the instrument or
        worksite.

-   Work involving carcinogens, explosives, or highly toxic or reactive
    compounds must be reviewed by the Lujan Safety Committee or
    evaluated by the Lujan Center Safety Officer and authorized by the
    Lujan EAM.

### 7.4 Nuclear Materials:

If your work at the Lujan Center requires that you bring in any
radioactive samples or nuclear materials, you must notify the Nuclear
Material Custodian and HSR-1 prior to shipping or bringing this material
to the Lujan Center. Some nuclear and weapons-related materials are
accountable, and we must keep track of the quantity of materials onsite.
Examples of accountable materials include: lithium hydride, plutonium,
neptunium and radioactive sources. The quantities of some of these
materials (for example, plutonium and neptunium) are limited by the
materials balance categorization of the area and by the Technical Safety
Requirements or TSRs. The TSRs are a portion of the safety authorization
basis documents which evaluate and control the potential hazards to
workers and the public should the material be released.

When some nuclear materials are in use at a flight path, a continuous
air monitor (CAM) may be placed near the material to detect any airborne
contamination. Pay attention to postings at the entrance to ER-1 and
ER-2, and announcements from CCR concerning operational status. The
Lujan Center also has a status board that should be check occasionally.
Should a CAM alarm sound, you must exit the building and muster either
just east of the ER-2 exits or just west of the ER-1 exit, up the
stairs, on the west side.

### 7.5 External Radiation Hazards:

At the Lujan Center, the primary sources of radiation are neutrons
produced by the target, and beta- and gamma radiation from activated
components that have been in the neutron beam.

Always check postings prior to entry of ER-1 and ER-2. Maintenance or
experimental activities may change the radiological conditions in the
area on a daily basis.

In ER-2, access to the upper reaches of the building is restricted
during beam delivery because of the potential for high radiation dose
rates if there is a beam spill in the Line D beam line.

**Radioactive Contamination Hazards:**

There is a potential for radioactive contamination in ER-1.

Pay attention to any additional requirements, such as Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE). If PPE is required in ER-1, the requirement
will be posted at the entrances to ER-1.

If you see water on the floor in ER-1, it could be contaminated. **Do
not** attempt to clean it up.

-   Your first response should be to immediately exit ER-1.

-   Once you are safely out of ER-1, you should immediately contact an
    RCT and the EAM.

-   Then you should contact the Lujan Center Safety Officer to report
    the spill.

### 7.6 Electrical:

If you bring electrical equipment into ER-1 or ER-2, you must notify the
Electrical Safety Officer prior to testing or using this equipment.

### 7.7 Cranes, Forklifts, Low Ceilings, Falls/Tripping:

When cranes are in use in ER-1 and ER-2 flashing lights indicate that
the crane is energized. Upon initial startup, the crane warning system
will emit a whooping sound in ER-1 and a buzz in ER-2.

An additional hazard associated with the operation of the overhead rail
crane in ER-1 is the orange 480 volt bus bar that provides power to the
crane. This bus bar encircles the target shield wall just below the
ceiling and runs the length of the crane bridge. When the crane is
energized you will see a bright flashing strobe light on the east, west,
north and south walls. Due to a potential flash hazard you must remain
at least four feet from the orange bus bars when the crane is energized.

You must be trained and licensed at Los Alamos National Laboratory
(LANL) to operate a crane. Seek help from the instrument technician or
Lujan mechanical technicians if you need crane capability.

Hard hats are required in ER-1 and ER-2 in the vicinity of crane
operations. The crane operator has the authority to direct personnel to
don hard hats. In the absence of crane operations hard hats are not
generally required. Hard hats are located at each of the entrances and
should be returned when you exit the area.

Forklifts are in use in ER-2, and ER-1 occasionally, and the grounds
around the Lujan Center. Forklifts are equipped with backup warning
beepers. You must be trained and licensed at LANL to operate a forklift.
Seek help from the instrument technician or Lujan mechanical technicians
if you need forklift capability.

Falls and trips are also potential hazards in ER-1 and ER-2. Be careful
when walking on the shielding areas at the mezzanine level. The
shielding is uneven in spots. Use the hand rails whenever possible.

### 7.8 Hazardous Materials:

#### 7.8.1 Mercury:

The Lujan Center operates several mercury shutter systems in ER-1 to
control the flow of neutrons from the 1L Target Facility to associated
equipment. Each shutter contains approximately 800-1,000 pounds of
liquid mercury.

Shutter system maintenance and repair occasionally involves the transfer
of liquid mercury, disassembly of the system plumbing, and replacement
of mercury contaminated components.

During maintenance or repair activities mercury may be released
accidentally. If you should see a silvery metallic fluid pooled on the
floor or flowing out of the tanks or piping:

-   press an evacuation alarm button in order to alert others in the
    area of the spill,

-   evacuate the area immediately, and

-   contact the Lujan Center office or the EAM immediately. Also contact
    the Lujan Center Safety Officer to report that a spill has occurred.

#### 7.8.2 Cadmium and Lead:

Cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) are frequently used for shielding in ER-1 and
ER-2. No machining of these materials is allowed without written
permission from a line manager, but sometimes cutting of lead and
cadmium sheet is performed with scissors at the designated lead/cadmium
work area in ER-2. The use of gloves and dedicated tools when handling
these materials is required along with washing one's hands after use.
For further information refer to the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS),
and other information available at the designated work area in ER-2.
Contact the Lujan Center Safety Officer for any additional information
or guidance. Additional training may also be required if you handle lead
on a frequent basis.

### 7.9 Machine and Hand Tools:

At the Lujan Center there are lathes, mills, drill presses, grinders and
saws which create hazards such as rotating machinery, cutting surfaces,
particles, fumes, etc. Access to these machines is controlled by the
shop supervisor. Personnel must be authorized to use these machine
tools. Seek help from the instrument technician or Lujan mechanical
technicians if you need to have machining done.

### 7.10 Confined Spaces:

A Confined Space is defined as a space that meets ALL the following
three criteria: 1) a space large enough that an employee can bodily
enter and perform work; 2) that has limited or restricted means for
entry or exit, and 3) is not designed for continuous human occupancy.
All confined spaces are evaluated and clearly posted. Look for these
postings before entering any potential confined space.

There are only a few confined spaces in ER-1 and ER-2. The major
confined spaces are in the utility trenches in ER-2. These trenches are
below the metal plates that form part of the ER-2 floor. To enter these
trenches, you must be trained and have a confined space permit. Seek
help from the Lujan Center Safety Officer or the instrument technician
if you need access to a confined space.

### 7.11 Cryogenic Fluids/Low Oxygen:

[Need .wav file of low O2 alarm]{.mark}

Cryogenic fluids are used for certain experiments in these areas. If
large amounts of cryogenic fluids are inadvertently released, oxygen can
be displaced creating a hazardous atmosphere. If you hear a low oxygen
alarm sound, immediately evacuate the area. If you will be transferring
cryogenic fluids from dewars, it is important that you wear appropriate
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as eye protection and gloves to
protect against injury to the eyes or cryogenic burns to the skin. If
you will be using a large quantity of cryogenic fluids for an
experiment, the experiment must be reviewed by the Safety Committee or
Lujan Center Safety Officer and authorized by the Lujan EAM.

### 7.12 High Pressure/Vacuum:

Many of the instruments use vacuum to reduce the loss of neutron
intensity caused by air scattering and to reduce heat transfer in
cryogenic furnace equipment. High-pressure equipment may be used during
experiments on specific flight paths. The IWD for the use of this type
of equipment outlines the hazards, controls, and training required for
conducting high-pressure experiments. If you will be using high-pressure
equipment for an experiment, the experiment must be reviewed by the
Safety Committee or Lujan Center Safety Officer and authorized by the
Lujan EAM.

All original, authorized Integrated Work Documents (IWDs) are available
in the office of the Lujan Center Experiment Coordinator. Copies of
these documents are available at the instrument or worksite.

### 7.13 Fire:

The fire hazard at the Lujan Center arises from the significant amount
of polyethylene used for radiation shielding and other combustible
materials such as paper, wood, and oil. You must help limit the Lujan
Center combustible loading by not leaving combustibles in ER-1 or ER-2.
If you should hear a fire alarm, a slow whooping sound, you need to
evacuate and muster in the east parking lot.

## 8.0 CONCLUSION:

Working safely is the responsibility of every worker at Los Alamos
National Laboratory. There are a number of hazards always present in
ER-1 and ER-2 not including those you bring in with your experiments or
work activities. Take the time to be sure what you are doing can be
accomplished in a manner that will not result in injury to yourself,
your co-workers, the environment or the reputation of the Laboratory.

#  

**Acronym List\
**

  ---------------- ------------------------------------------------------
  **Acronym**      **Definition**

  CCR              Central Control Room

  EAM              Experimental Area Manager

  EPACS            Experimental Area Personnel Access Control System

  ER-1             Experimental Room 1

  ER-2             Experimental Room 2

  GERT             General Employee Radiological Training

  HCP              Hazard Control Plan

  HEPA             High Efficiency Particulate Air

  HS&R             Health, Safety, and Radiation Protection

  LANSCE           Los Alamos Neutron Science Center

  LANL             Los Alamos National Laboratory

  Lujan Center     Lujan Neutron Scattering Center

  MSDS             Material Safety Data Sheet

  NRTL             Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory

  pRad             Proton Radiography Facility

  PN-3             Personal Neutron Dosimeter

  PPE              Personal Protective Equipment

  PSS              Personnel Safety System

  RAD Training     Radiological Worker Training

  RCT              Radiological Control Technician

  RMA              Radioactive Material Area

  RWP              Radiological Work Permit

  TA-3             Technical Area 3

  TA-53            Technical Area 53 (LANSCE)

  TLD              Thermoluminescent Dosimeter

  WNR              Weapons Neutron Research Facility
  ---------------- ------------------------------------------------------

**Definitions**

***Activated material***. Material exposed to high levels of neutrons.
The material becomes radioactive for a period of time after exposure.

***Administrative control***. Methods such as procedures, postings,
permits, access restrictions, training, or time restrictions that help
reduce hazards.

***As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).*** Radiological concept to
manage and keep radiation exposures to the work force and general public
as low as is reasonable.

***Authorization***. The acceptance and approval by the appropriate
level of supervision of (1) the adequacy of the control system (*work*
authorization) or (2) a specific worker's knowledge, skills, and
abilities to perform the work safely (*worker* authorization).

***Beam***. The stream of protons from the accelerator is the primary
beam.

***Blue Room.*** The WNR Target-2 area, where samples can be exposed to
the direct 800­MeV proton beam.

***Buddy Principle***. A requirement whereby an employee working in an
isolated area mustmaintain hourly contact with a second person. If two
people are working in an isolated area and one of them must leave, the
one who leaves must find a new worker to serve as the buddy.

***Central Control Room (CCR).*** The CCR is located in Building 4 where
operators direct beam operation 24 hours per day.

***Confined space***. Areas that (1) are large enough so a worker can
enter and perform work,

\(2\) have limited access or egress, and (3) are not designed for
continuous occupancy.Confined spaces are posted. Some require permits
for entry.

***Contamination.*** Radioactive material in an unwanted location.

***Continuous-air monitor (CAM).*** Instrument that continuously
measures the level of airborne radioactivity and sounds an alarms when
the level exceeds the set point.

***Contamination area.*** An area in which the contamination level is
greater than one time but less than 100 times the limits specified in
Table 14-1 of LIR 402-700-01. The level of contamination requires
contamination control measures.

***Controlled area (radiological controlled area).*** Any area to which
access is managed by or for DOE to protect individuals from exposure to
radiation and/or radioactive materials.

***Controlled area (volume contamination)***. An area where activation
of materials is expected.

***Emergency Management and Response (EM&R) Group.*** The LANL group
that is responsible for emergency management and response.

***Engineering controls.*** Structural or mechanical systems or tools
that help reduce hazards.

***Experimental Area 1 (ER-1).*** Area at the Lujan Center equipped with
instruments for neutron-scattering experiments. When beam is on, it
becomes a radiation area. When beam is off, it is a radiologically
controlled area.

***Experimental Area 2 (ER-2).*** Controlled area at the Lujan Center
equipped with instruments for neutron-scattering experiments ***Health,
Safety, and Radiation (HSR) Division***. HSR Division is responsible for
delivering key services in areas of health, safety, and radiation
protection.

***High explosive (HE).*** An explosive (such as TNT) that rapidly
generates gas and has a shattering effect.

***High radiation area***. Any accessible area where radiation levels
could result in an individual receiving a deep dose equivalent in excess
of 0.1 rem (100 mrem) in an hour at 30 cm from the source or from any
surface that the radiation penetrates.

***La Mesita Road***. The main road at TA-53 that extends from East
Jemez Road to the end of the TA-53 mesa.

***Limited access area***. Area posted as "Radiation Area" or
"Controlled Area" under normal operating conditions, but under certain
accident conditions, radiation dose rates might exceed 25 rem/hour.
***Linear accelerator (linac).*** Proton (or electron or heavy ion)
accelerator in which the paths of the protons accelerated are
essentially straight lines rather than circles or spirals.

***Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).*** Information sheet that
concisely informs employees about the hazards of a specific material so
that employees can protect themselves and respond to emergency
situations

***Personnel Accountability Control System (PACS).*** A hardware system,
including sets of keys, which is used to keep personnel from beam areas
or other areas where radiation levels may be high.

***PN-3 track etch dosimeter ("lemon badge").*** Instrument used to
assess dose from neutron radiation when energies are greater than those
measured by the TLD.

***Personal protective equipment (PPE).*** Protective clothing or
respirator equipment to help protect workers.

***Personnel contamination monitor (PCM) or (PCM-1).*** A monitor placed
at certain exits to measure surface contamination on a worker's clothing
or body. It sounds an alarm if contamination is detected.

***Portal monitor (PM).*** A monitor that automatically measures
radiation levels as personnel or equipment pass through it. It sounds an
alarm if radiation level reaches a defined set point.

***Proton radiography (pRad).*** Method that uses high-energy protons to
look at an object (or an explosion). The object absorbs or scatters the
protons. A magnetic lens system focuses the scattered protons into a
clear image. The pRad facility enables high-resolution, time-dependant
studies of dynamic events for the study of high-explosive detonation and
burn, hydrodynamics and shock physics, and dynamic-materials properties.

***Radiation area***. Area with potential external radiation doses from
\> 5 mrem/hour at 30 cm from a source to 100 mrem/hour.

***Radiation controlled area.*** Area with potentially removable
contamination of up to 100 mrem/hour.

***Radiation Protection Automation System (RPAS).*** A software system
that tracks radiological issues and conditions at TA-53.

***Radiation Protection Services Group (HSR-12).*** HSR-12 is
responsible for programs that assist in protecting workers, the public,
and the environment from radiological hazards.

***Radiation Security System (RSS).*** Engineering control to reduce
radiation exposure. The RSS includes beam plugs, beam-spill monitors
(gamma detectors), beam-current limiters, and the Personnel Access
Control System (PACS).

***Radiological Control Technician***. Qualified individual who provides
routine and complex radiation support at assigned Laboratory sites.
Performs workplace surveillance and analysis/interpretation of
radiological data. Provides operational health-physics support to
facility programs.

***Radiological Work Permit (RWP).*** Permit that identifies
radiological conditions, establishes worker protection and monitoring
requirements, and contains specific approvals for radiological work
activities. The RWPs serve as an administrative process for planning and
controlling radiological work and for informing workers of radiological
conditions-*LIR402-700-01.1, Occupational Radiation Protection
Requirements*.

***Radon.*** A colorless, radioactive, inert gaseous element formed by
the radioactive decay of radium.

***Thermoluminescent Dosimeter (TLD).*** Measures beta (\_), gamma (\_),
and x-rays and low- to mid-energy neutron-radiation doses for a worker.

***Volume-contaminated material.*** Material that becomes radioactively
activated throughout because of exposure to neutron fields that result
when the accelerator beam strikes a target.

***Weapons Neutron Research Facility (WNR).*** The LANSCE facility
(sponsored by LANSCE-3) that has two targets to provide neutron and
proton beams for basic, applied, and defense-related research.