American National Standard N13.49
Performance and Documentation of Radiological Surveys
Radiological
surveys are performed at many types of facilities for a variety of
purposes. Survey objectives range from ensuring operational
radiological control to demonstrating that a remediated facility may be
safely released for unrestricted use. Radiological surveys comprise a
set of discrete survey tasks, such as, ambient dose rate measurements,
air monitoring, evaluating radiation levels from radiation producing
equipment, assessing radioactive material concentrations in
environmental media, and determining surface contamination levels. It
is essential that these fundamental radiological survey tasks be
properly performed and documented so that survey results are sufficient
for their intended purposes. The data life cycle, which includes survey
planning, implementation, and assessment, can be used to ensure that
these survey data satisfy their stated objectives.
The data life cycle is an integral component of designing, assessing
and documenting radiological surveys (ANSI/ASQC E4-1994). During the
planning phase of the data life cycle, the Data Quality Objectives
(DQO) Process is used to define quantitative and qualitative criteria
for determining the number and type of survey measurements and samples
needed for the identified survey purpose. Following the statement of
survey DQOs, field and analytical procedures are selected, and
appropriate quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) documents
are developed. Survey data are then collected following the developed
survey and QA/QC procedures documents. The data life cycle is completed
with the Data Quality Assessment (DQA), which includes validation and
verification of the data to ensure that the measurement and sampling
protocols were properly followed. DQA then proceeds using the validated
data set to determine if the quality of the data is sufficient to
support the decision. The data life cycle, along with standardized
performance of radiological survey tasks, helps to ensure that reliable
procedures are implemented, appropriate survey instruments are selected
and used, and qualified personnel are responsible for conducting
surveys and assessing survey results. Inconsistencies and
non-uniformities in documentation of radiological surveys are reduced
by promoting the use of consistent units on records and consistent
reporting of survey data. These records are used in the evaluation of
trends, demonstrating compliance with regulations, and providing
documentation of area and work site conditions.
This standard provides both specific and general guidance for
facilities using radioactive material or machines producing radiation
fields that will make the performance and documentation of radiological
surveys more uniform and complete. The information provided is
integrated into the overall survey program, in the form of procedures,
for the various radiological survey types. Training of personnel
responsible for radiological surveys should, in some manner, encompass
the information provided.
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