Area Monitoring Dosimeter Program for the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory: Results for CY 2006

Abstract

In January 1993, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) established an area monitoring dosimeter program in accordance with Article 514 of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Radiological Control Manual (RCM). The purpose of this program was to minimize the number of areas requiring issuance of personnel dosimeters and to demonstrate that doses outside Radiological Buffer Areas are negligible. In accordance with 10 CFR Part 835.402 (a) ( 1)-( 4) and Article 511.1 of the PNNL Radiological Control Program Description, personnel dosimetry shall be provided to 1) radiological workers who are likely to receive at least 100 mrem annually, and 2) declared pregnant workers, minors, and members of the public who are likely to receive at least 50 mrem annually. Program results for calendar years 1993-2005 confirmed that personnel dosimetry was not needed for individuals located in areas monitored by the program.Area thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) were placed at 127 locations in PNNL facilities during calendar year 2006. The TLDs were exchanged and analyzed quarterly or on an annual basis dependent on location. Routine area monitoring TLD results were less than 50 mrem annually after correcting for worker occupancy. The results support the conclusion that personnel dosimeters are not necessary for staff, declared pregnant workers, minors, or members of the public in these monitored areas.