http://www.westrain.org/NEW_NEI_Alpha.pdfCourse Objectives
Fundamentals of Alpha Objectives
* Understand the characteristics of alpha and its hazard compared with beta-gamma contamination
* List typical sources of alpha radiation found in nuclear power plants and the challenges associated with its detection
Defining and Monitoring Alpha Hazards
* Describe typical tasks completed by a station to characterize its alpha source term
* Define beta-gamma to alpha ratio and how it is determined
* Explain the classification of plant systems and components and the associated beta-gamma : alpha ratio
* Describe methods for determining alpha nuclide distribution at a facility
* Describe the action levels for alpha monitoring using beta-gamma ratios, contamination survey data, and air sampling results
Work Controls
* Describe work planning controls for alpha as applied to:
• Risk Assessment
• Work Planning
• RWP
• PPE
* State considerations and rationale for job coverage air sampling in the work area
* Explain how radon can interfere with initial evaluation of alpha activity and measures to compensate for this interference
* Explain the use of personal air samplers as personal dosimetry.
* State exceptions to use of PAS in level II or level III areas
* Discuss field work controls including:
• Stop work actions
• Monitoring of personnel and materials
• PPE
• Radiological briefings
* Describe posting requirements for Level III alpha areas
Individual Monitoring
* List typical conditions that may indicate an unplanned alpha intake
* Describe the steps to take when investigating a potential unplanned alpha intake
* Recognize individual monitoring requirements based on potential dose, including actions to take and the techniques used for monitoring
* Describe the benefits and limitations for each of the following individual monitoring techniques:
• PAS
• WBC
• Excreta
o Urine
o Feces
* Recognize potential pathways/routes of intake for alpha contamination into the body