Figure 5. Controlled Area Sign.

One of the most important parts of the National Labs safety programs is the posting of warning and notice signs in areas that are controlled for purposes of radiation safety. These signs alert personnel to the potential hazards from radiation in these areas.

Figure 6. Radioactive Material Area Sign.

There are two types of hazardous areas at National Labs. Controlled areas are posted with signs similar to this blue and white notice sign. They typically serve as buffer areas for the second type of hazardous area, which contains the actual radiological material, machines, or work. Figure 5 is an example of a controlled area sign. Individuals who have completed GERT training are authorized to enter controlled areas without escort.

The second type of hazards area, posted with yellow and black or yellow and magenta signs with the radiation trefoil symbol, indicates where the actual radiological material is housed and researched, including its surrounding radiation field. Only individuals who have had the higher-level training of a radiological worker should enter these areas without an escort. Figure 6 is an example of this type of sign.