Radioisotope Decontamination

The management of sites that are suspected to have radioactivity contamination has a three stage management plan; Investigation, Decontamination and Clearance testing. Today, radiation sources are very common;  sensitive smoke detectors (²⁴¹Am), age determination techniques (¹⁴C), sedimentation chronological studies (²¹⁰Pb), cancer treatments (⁶⁰Co) to nuclear fission (²³⁵U), radioactive particles are almost ubiquitous.

3 step response plan

Initially, historic data on the site is collected to determine the likely nature, scope, location and chemical identity of the risk. An investigation plan and risk assessment is developed, then the site is visited to take initial measurements and sample collection. The samples are then analysed by and independent laboratory for the levels and nature of the contamination.

Decontamination

Based on the site inspection, review of the site history, readings taken at site and laboratory data, a decontamination strategy is developed. This is reviewed with the stake holders, and plans are made to implement the work. Safe work practices are developed and followed and the decontamination proceeds. Any waste produced is appropriately disposed of in appropriate, safe and legal manners.

Clearance testing

A second round of testing proceeds after the decontamination, aimed at confirming the site is clear of hazardous levels of radiation. When that is achieved, final reports of the works are provided with clearance certificates, independent laboratory reports and photographic evidence of the process followed. The aim of this report is to provide appropriate information to subsequent users of the site, that the site is cleared of the identified risks and how that was achieved. Biosafety are an experienced, safe and reliable provider of these complex and highly technical services.

Radioisotope Testing

Radiation risks in the laboratory

Biosafety offers an independent consulting and testing service for your laboratory. In general use, sources are well controlled and understood. In older laboratories, where historic work is less well documented and recalled, biosafety can offer a range of services to assess and control risks.

Understanding the full situation

Biosafety has the capabilities and staff knowledge to assess sites where there are unknown risks or risks that combine both chemical and radiological exposure hazards. We work with reputable independent test laboratories, to create valid sampling and analysis plans for you site. Once the situation is fully identified, Biosafety is able to recommend remediations, and in some cases offer a complete suite of services to remediate and clearance test the location.

Confidential and balanced

We are dedicated to assisting you in making your site safer through a scientific process. Our work is confidential and balanced. Our team has a strong focus on practical solutions and genuine regard for the health of your personnel. Exposure topics can easily become highly emotionally charged, our work takes the emotion out of these topics, replacing it with facts, demystifying the technology with clear, practical, explanations.