Document: NRC Regulatory Guide
Document ID: a5cfec96-8785-464b-ada8-dc4424b90606
Document Type: regulatory_guide
Title: Quality Assurance for Radiological Monitoring Programs
Source: NRC Regulatory Guide Division 4
Source URL: https://www.nrc.gov/docs/ML0630/ML063060429.pdf
Revision Date: 2023-06
Chapter: 
Section ID: RG-4.15
CFR Part: 
CFR Title: 

Content:
ons as closely as possible (i.e., using appropriate sample containers and geometries). Section 18.5.1 of MARLAP provides guidance on measurement and control of instrument backgrounds. Section 18.3 and Attachment 18A of MARLAP contain guidance on the statistical evaluation of performance indicators and on using control and tolerance charts. Sections 10-13 and 20-25 of ASTM D7282-2006 and Section A.5.2 of ANSI N42.23-2003 provide additional guidance on instrument response source checks, background checks, and the use of control charts. ASTM MNL 7A-2002 provides guidance on setting up and using control charts. 6.2 Internal Quality Control Samples and Analysis The use of QC samples should be an integral element of a laboratory QA program. Chapter 18 of MARLAP defines the different types of laboratory QC samples and provides guidance on evaluation techniques for QC samples. The laboratory should have as part of the normal operational sample load the following QC samples:4 • BLANK • MATRIX SPIKE • LABORATORY CONTROL SAMPLE • LABORATORY DUPLICATE Analysis of QC samples should be performed as a part of the routine operation of a laboratory to verify that laboratory operations are consistent with applicable specifications. The QC program should specify the type of and minimum frequency for processing QC samples. For example, this frequency may be defined as a minimum percentage of the total number of samples analyzed, a certain number per operational time interval (e.g., once per shift) or per sample batch, or a licensee-specified frequency based on laboratory-specific parameters. As part of its QC program, the laboratory may prepare and analyze BLIND SAMPLES, provided the individuals responsible for preparing the samples are not directly responsible for conducting the laboratory analysis. For example, the laboratory’s assigned QC specialist may have the responsibility for preparing and submitting blind samples (blank, duplicate, laboratory control sample, and