The spread of contamination can result if a spill occurs or if protective clothing is not worn. It is for this reason that surveys must be completed of areas where radioactive materials are used on each day of use. These surveys are mandatory and a Daily Laboratory Survey Form must be completed one of which is shown below. Some contamination is inevitable in a radiation work area and a limit of 100 dpm per 100 cm 2 of surface area is set. For non-work areas such as desks, chairs, phones and door knobs the limit is background.
Contamination is detected with the use of survey instruments or liquid scintillation.
Perform required daily laboratory surveys. Wear protective clothing such as gloves and lab coats. Do not eat, drink, apply cosmetics, or use tobacco around radioactive materials. Use a fume hood with volatile radioactive substances. Follow the instructions on the inside cover of this manual when a spill occurs.