Radiation Spill Procedure
The radiation worker who is responsible for a spill, is also responsible for decontamination.
It is the responsibility of any individual who works with radioactive materials to
have a basic understanding of decontamination principles.
Environmental Health & Safety is not authorized to clean up radioactive spills. Emergency procedures shall be posted in all radioactive
material laboratories.
Major Spill Response
Equal to or greater than 1 millicurie.
- Stop work.
- Warn others.
- Isolate the spill.
- Keep potentially contaminated personnel nearby for follow-up.
- Keep uninvolved people out of area until cleanup or appropriate measures are completed.
- Call the Radiation Safety Office for assistance: 706-721-9826, after hours number:
706-664-8607
Minor Spill Response
Less than 1 millicurie
- Stop work.
- Warn others.
- Isolate the spill.
- Keep uninvolved people out of area until cleanup is complete.
- Complete decontamination.
- Document the contamination level post-cleanup.
- Notify the Radiation Safety Office: 706-721-9826, after hours number: 706-664-8607
Radiation Safety Office Response Actions
- Supervise cleanup or restriction of area until emergency no longer exists.
- Verify that the area is decontaminated.
- Follow-up on potentially contaminated personnel.
- Notify regulatory agencies if necessary.
