Operational Radiation Protection
Workplace Monitoring and Support to Field Activities
Workplace monitoring is, in the frame of occupational radiation protection, a main means to ensure achievement and maintenance of an acceptable protection of the working environment from radiation hazards. Monitoring includes measurements and interpretation of results for the purpose of radiological assessment to control installations and the radiation hazards to workers.
A surveillance programme by workplace monitoring is implemented by the IAEA to keep under control radiation practices carried out in its own premises. For this purpose the Operational Service Group is equipped with radiation specialists and health physicist staff as well as with an adequate number of radiation detection instruments, including tools for safe handling of radioactive sources and materials and personal protection devices. Care is also taken for ensuring adequate resources of instruments based on current needs and for replacement during maintenance requirements.
Efficiency in response to measurement needs and accuracy of results is ensured by relying on procedures and instructions implemented as part of a quality management system for radiation monitoring activities.
Purpose
The objectives of the workplace monitoring activities are to ensure satisfactory working conditions in the radiation practices carried out by the IAEA through the implementation of a survey programme in its own premises and providing radiological advice and assistance to verification and programmatic assistance activities.
Activities
The main operational activities for workplace monitoring can be summarized as follows:
- Implementation of a radiation surveillance programme to the Agency’s Laboratories at Seibersdorf, including workplace monitoring, emergency planning and facility control
- Assistance to the Monaco Environmental Lab in safely carrying out its radiation activities
- Support and advice on radiation prevention and protection to SG verification activities
- Support to the radioactive control at HQ entrance gates
- Provision of technical advice and support to TC assistance projects to Members States
- Provision of training in radiation protection to occupationally exposed staff and fellows developing activities at Agency laboratories and inspection for verification purposes
- Provision of necessary resources on instruments and personal protective devices
The operational tasks include:
- purchase, maintenance and calibration of suitable radiation monitoring instruments, tools and personal protective devices
- keeping an updated data base on the operational state and availability of the instruments
Knowledge Management
Resources are available and in place for advice and assistance on:
- Survey methods
- Instrument selection
- Measurements techniques for implementation of routine monitoring programmes including preventive actions and protection criteria
Information on operational activities is linked to procedures and instructions following quality requirements.
For further information please contact R. Hochmann.
