520B88002
United States Eastern Environmental EPA
Environmental Protection Radiation Facility May 1988
Agency 1890 Federal Drive
Office of Radiation Programs Montgomery, AL 36109
Radiation
c/EPA
Environmental Radiation
Ambient Monitoring System
(ERAMS) Manual
VOLUME II
Sample Collection
and
Procedures Guide
-------
EPA 520/5-84-008
Environmental
Radiation
Ambient
Monitoring
System
E R A M S MANUAL
VOLUME II
SAMPLE COLLECTION AND PROCEDURES GUIDE
May 1988
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Radiation Programs
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility (EERF)
1890 Federal Drive
Montgomery, Alabama 36109
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CONTENTS
Page
List of Figures and Tables iv
1 Air Particulate Sampling II-l- 1
1.1 Equipment II-l- 1
1.2 Supplies II-l- 1
1.3 Replacement Items II-l- 2
1.4 Equipment Installation II-l- 2
1.5 Maintenance II-l- 2
1.6 Sampling Schedule II-l- 2
1.7 Air Flow Measurements II-l- 5
1.8 Operation of the Sampler II-1-10
2 Field Estimates II-2- 1
2.1 Equipment II-2- 2
2.2 Replacement Items II-2- 3
2.3 Maintenance II-2- 3
2.4 Field Estimate Schedule II-2- 4
2.5 Procedures for Making a Field Estimate I1-2- 4
3 Routine Air Reports I1-3- 1
3.1 General Instructions II-3- 1
3.2 Sample ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report II-3- 4
4 Alert Air Reports I1-4- 1
4.1 Type I Alert II-4- 1
4.2 Type II Alert II-4- 1
4.3 Reporting II-4- 1
ii
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CONTENTS-Continued
Page
5 Precipitation Sampling II-5- 1
5.1 Equipment 11-5- 1
5.2 Supplies II-5- 1
5.3 Replacement Items II-5- 2
5.4 Equipment Installation II-5- 2
5.5 Sampling Schedule II-5- 2
5.6 Maintenance II-5- 2
5.7 Sample Collections II-5- 3
6 Drinking Water Sampling II-6- 1
6.1 Supplies 11-6- 1
6.2 Replacement Items II-6- 1
6.3 Sampling Schedule II-6- 1
6.4 Sample Collections II-6- 2
7 Surface Water Sampling 11-7- 1
7.1 Equipment 11-7- 1
7.2 Supplies II-7- 1
7.3 Replacement Items II-7- 2
7.4 Sampling Schedule II-7- 2
7.5 Sample Collections II-7- 2
8 Pasteurized Milk Sampling I1-8- 1
8.1 Supplies II-8- 2
8.2 Replacement Items II-8- 2
8.3 Sampling Schedule 11-8- 2
8.4 Sample Collections II-8- 2
m
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LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES
Figure Page
1.1 ERAMS Equipment and Supply Request Form: Air Particulate
Component II-l- 3
1.2 Air Sampling Unit (external view) II-l- 4
1.3 Air Sampling Unit (internal view) II-l- 6
(R)
1.4 Air Flow Measurement/Magnehelic Gauge II-l- 7
1.5 Hi-VOL Calibration Curve II-l- 9
1.6 Removal of Sampler Head 11-1-11
1.7 Filter Placement in Sampling Head II-1-13
1.8 Marking of Glassine Envelope II-1-14
2.1 "Pancake" GM Tube Attached Detector II-2- 8
3.1 ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report II-3- 5
3.2 Completed ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report II-3- 6
5.1 Precipitation Collection Unit II-5- 5
5.2 ERAMS Equipment and Supply Request Form: Precipitation
Component II-5- 6
5.3 Precipitation Data Label II-5- 7
6.1 ERAMS Drinking Water Report 11-6- 3
7.1 ERAMS Surface Water Report 11-7- 4
8.1 ERAMS Pasteurized Milk Report 11-8- 5
Table Page
1.1 Sample Air Flow Calibration Table II-l- 8
iv
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FOREWORD
This document explains in detail the operation of the Environmental
Radiation Ambient Monitoring System (ERAMS). It is bound in loose-leaf
format so that it may be updated as necessary.
Readers are encouraged to review the information and advise the EERF
of inaccuracies and suggested changes. Please send your comments or
suggestions to the following address:
Chief, Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive
Montgomery, Alabama 36109
Charles R. Porter, Director
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
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1 AIR PARTICIPATE SAMPLING
The ERAMS air stations are operated continuously and the filters are
changed twice weekly. Field estimates of gross beta radioactivity are
made and routinely submitted with the filters to the Eastern Environmental
Radiation Facility (EERF).
At the EERF the air filters are again analyzed for gross beta
radioactivity. Filters having greater than usual radioactivity are
subjected to further analysis to more precisely determine the levels of
different radioactive elements and to attempt to define the possible
source of the activity. In addition, quarterly composites of air filters
from each location are analyzed for plutonium and uranium.
1.1 Equipment
Equipment to operate the station is provided by the EERF. New and
improved equipment is provided as it becomes available. Although some of
the older equipment may still be in use, it will be replaced as it becomes
inoperative. Most stations are now equipped with the following items:
blower-motor assembly in weatherproof enclosure
sampling head (attached to blower)
survey meter with pancake Geiger-Mueller detector
calibration source
(R)
Magnehelic gauge (attached to weatherproof enclosure)
1.2 Supplies
Each station is supplied with the following expendable items:
4" diameter air filters
glassine envelopes
II-l-l
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ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report forms
franked mailing envelopes
1.3 Replacement Items
Replacement equipment and supplies are provided by the EERF on
receipt of the request form illustrated in Figure 1.1. Supplies may also
be requested by telephone from the Chief, Monitoring and Analytical
Services Branch (MASB), at (205) 272-3402 or FTS 534-7615.
1.4 Equ i pment Install at ion
The air sampling unit used by ERAMS to collect the air particulate
sample is supplied complete and ready to install as seen in Figure 1.2.
The unit can be plugged into any normal 110 VAC receptacle. If a
receptacle is not available and must be installed, the work should be done
by a certified electrician to meet local electrical codes. The receptacle
Must Be Electrically Grounded for Safety. (NOTE: Although it is not
mandatory, the blower-motor assembly can be bolted to a surface to achieve
maximum stability of the unit.)
1.5 Maintenance
With proper maintenance, the unit should provide years of trouble-free
operation. There is little maintenance required; however, the unit should
be observed daily for proper operation. Unusual noises or excessive heat
may be signs of impending problems. The unit should be kept clear of
excessive dust or other materials that may prevent flow of cooling air.
1.6 Sampling Sc hed u 1 e
Air particulate sampling equipment is operated continuously, and
filters should be removed and submitted either each Monday and Thursday
II-1-2
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Requested by:
Date:
Figure 1.1
ERAMS EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLY REQUEST
Air Particulate Component
Station:
Address:
Telephone: ( )
/~7 Mailing Envelopes
/_"7 Glassine Envelopes
I Filters
/~7 Franked Mailing Labels
/~T Report Forms
/~7 Equipment (specify)
Parts (specify)
Comments:
Please return this form to the attention of:
Chief, Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive
Montgomery, Alabama 36109
(205) 272-3402; FTS 534-7615
II-1-3
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Figure 1.2
Sampling Unit (external view)
II-1-4
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morning or each Tuesday and Friday morning, whichever is more compatible
with the station operator's normal work week.
1.7 Air Flow Measurements
(R)
Air flow measurements are made with the Magnehelic gauge that is
installed on the inside of the sampling unit door (Figure 1.3). The
measurements are made immediately after the start and just prior to the
end of the sampling period. The sampling unit must be located such that
(R 1
the Magnehelic^ ' gauge is in an upright (vertical) position. It is
(R)
necessary to connect the Tygon hose from the Magnehelicv ' gauge to the
"push on" nipple on the filter head to make the reading. The connection
should be made only for reading, and at all other times the tubing is
removed and the nipple left open. The vacuum in the filter head is read
(R)
on the MagneheliV ' gauge in inches of water (Figure 1.4), which can be
converted to air flow in cubic meters per hour.
The total air flow for the sampling period is obtained by averaging
the initial and concluding air flows for the sampling period. The
(R)
Magnehelic1 ' readings in inches of water are converted to air flow in
cubic meters per hour (CMH) using a table that is similar to Table 1.1
and/or a curve similar to Figure 1.5. A calibration table and a
calibration curve are supplied with each sampling system, since
calibration data are valid for only one particular head. An example
calculation of total air flow, using data for sampling head Oil (see
Table 1.1 and Figure 1.5), is shown below:
Magnehelic
(in. of water) CMH
Initial reading 5.0 32.0
Final reading 4.2 29.2
Average flow rate 30.6 CMH
II-1-5
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Figure 1.3
Sampling Unit (internal view)
II-1-6
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Figure 1.4
(R)
Air Flow Measurement/Magnehelic Gauge
(read in inches of water)
II-1-7
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TABLE 1.1
Sample Air Flow Calibration Table
**HI VOL AUDIT
****** AUDIT ORIFICE I Oil
MAGN
RDG
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.3
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
3.0
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
SCFM
4.021
5.806
7.197
8.383
9.435
10.392
11.276
12.103
12.882
13.622
14.328
15.004
15.654
16.281
16.887
17.475
18.045
18.600
19.141
19.668
20.183
20.687
21.180
21.663
22.137
22.602
23.058
23.507
23.948
24.382
24.810
25.230
25.645
26.054
M3/HR
6.833
9.865
12.2^0
14.244
16.032
17.653
19.161
20.565
21.890
23.147
24.346
25.495
26.599
27.665
28.695
29.693
30. 662
31.605
32.524
33.420
34.295
35.151
35.989
36.810
37.615
38.405
39.181
39.943
40.693
41.430
42.156
42.872
43.576
44.271
MAGN
RDG
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9
4.0
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.3
4.9
5.0
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8
5.9
6.0
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
ORIFICE CALIBRATION DATA**
DATE 7/ 2/86 SITE
SCFM
26.457
26.855
27.248
27.636
28.019
28.397
28.771
29.141
29.507
29.863
30.226
3r» c a *
w • «* O u
30.931
31.278
31.621
31.962
32.299
32.633
32.964
33.292
33.617
33.940
34.260
34.577
34.892
35.204
35.513
35.821
36.126
36.423
36.729
37.027
37.323
37.618
M3/HR
44.956
45.633
46.300
46.959
47.610
48.253
48.888
49.516
50.138
50.752
51.360
51.962
52.557
53.147
53.731
54.309
54.382
55.450
56.012
56.570
57.123
57.671
58.214
58.753
59.288
59.818
60.344
60.366
61.385
61.899
62.410
62.917
63.420
63.920
MAGN
RDG
6.9
7.0
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9
3.0
8.1
8.2
8.3
8.4
8.5
3.6
8.7
8.8
8.9
9.0
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
9.6
9.7
9.8
9.9
10.0
10.1
10.2
SCFM
37.910
38.200
38.483
38.774
39.059
39.341
39.622
39.901
40.179
40.454
40.728
41.001
41.272
41.541
41.808
42.075
42.339
42.503
42.864
43.125
43.384
43.641
43.893
44.153
44.406
44.659
44.910
45.160
45.408
45.656
45.902
46.147
46.391
46.634
M3/HR
64.416
64.909
65.399
65.886
66.369
66.849
67.326
67.800
68.272
68.740
69.206
69.669
70.129
70.586
71.041
71.493
71.943
72.390
72.835
73.278
73.718
74.155
74.591
75.024
75.455
75.884
76.311
76.735
77.158
77.578
77.997
78.413
78.828
79.240
M3/HR = 23.146816 * (MANOMETER READING)** 0.529898
SCFM = 13.622185 * (MANOMETER READING)** 0.529898
MANOMETER READING = MANOMETER READING IN H20
M3/HR = CUBIC METERS /HR (25 C, 760 mm Hg)
SCFM = CUBIC FEET /MIN (25 C, 760 mm Hg)
II-1-8
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Figure 1.5
HI-VOL CALIBRATION CURVE
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-------
To determine the total air volume moved through the filter, the average
flow rate is multiplied by the sampling time in hours.
1.8 Operation of the Sampler
1.8.1 Initiating the Sampling Period. If the blower is operating,
turn the power off using the switch on the box at the lower left side of
the door opening. Allow the motor to come to a complete stop before
proceeding. Remove the top of the sampling head by twisting slightly and
lifting up as shown in Figure 1.6. If there is a filter in the sampling
position, remove it and place a new 4" "all dust" filter in position as
shown in Figure 1.7. Replace the top of the sampling head firmly into
position and restart the motor with the switch. After three minutes,
connect the tygon tube from the Magnehelic to the nipple on the sampling
head and record the first air flow measurement in the sampling log.
Disconnect the tygon tube from the sampling head.
1.8.2 Concluding the Sampling Period. Before turning the motor off,
connect the Magnehelic gauge and record the final flow measurement in the
sampling log. With a wax pencil or a felt tip marker write the following
identifying information on a glassine envelope, as illustrated in
Figure 1.8.
1. Station number, sample location, and date
(Example: No. 408 Montgomery, AL)
2. Day and time sample collection began (month-day-hour)
(Example: 11/17/0800)
II-1-10
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Figure 1.6
Removal of Sampler Head
II-l-ll
-------
3. Day and time sample collection ended (month-day-hour)
(Example: 11/20/0800)
4. Total air volume that has moved through filter
(Example: 51 CMH X 72 Hours = 3672 m3)
Turn the motor off and wait until it has stopped completely. Remove
the sampling head. Using forceps and taking special care not to touch the
filter surface where particulates have been deposited, remove the air
filter and place it in a glassine envelope. Before mailing the glassine
envelope to the Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility, it is a good
idea to compare the information on the envelope with the required
information as illustrated in Figure 1.7.
II-1-12
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Figure 1.7
Filter Placement in Sampler Head
II-1-13
-------
Figure 1.8
Marking of a Glassine Envelope
II-1-14
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2 FIELD ESTIMATES
Field estimates of the quantity of radioactivity on the air filter
are performed in order to provide early warnings of any large increases in
airborne radioactivity. The determination requires a portable survey
instrument. Although the field estimate is not highly accurate or
sensitive, it does detect significantly elevated levels.
The field estimate is made using a Geiger-Mueller (GM) detector to
compare radioactivity from the filter to that from a beta standard. The
standard is placed in the detector and counted and then the sample is
placed in the detector and another reading is taken. The ratio of the
readings is used to calculate the amount of beta emitting radioactive
material present on the filter, according to the following formula:
Sample Activity (pCi) = Sample reading x Standard Activity (pCi)
Standard reading
The units for sample reading and standard reading may be either
milliroentgen per hour (mR/hr) or counts per minute as long as both are
measured in the same units. The calculated activity in picocuries is
divided by the volume of air in cubic meters represented by the sample.
This provides the gross activity of the sample expressed in picocuries per
o
cubic meter (pCi/m ).
II-2-1
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The accuracy of field estimates depends upon the instrument being
used and the nature and total amount of radioactivity present on the
sample. The field estimate should be within + 50 percent of the actual
3 3
value for gross activities ranging from 10 pCi/m to 400 pCi/m .
Below 10 pCi/m3 and above 400 pCi/m3, the instrument response
characteristics may interfere with reliable measurements.
2.1 Equipment
The EERF supplies all equipment to perform field estimates of
radioactivity on filters. The equipment consists of a portable survey
meter and a pancake Geiger-Mueller (G-M) detector. An appropriate
standard is supplied to verify proper instrument operation and calibration.
2.1.1 Survey Meters. There are three different types of survey
meters currently used by air stations for making field estimates. They
are the Eberline Model E-120 and the two models of the Victoreen Thyac.
The newer of these is the Eberline Model E-120. All instruments perform
the same function with only minor differences in battery requirements,
switching designations, and some component parts. All may be coupled to
the detector that the EERF provides for making field estimates.
2.1.2 Detector Assembly. The "Pancake" G-M tube probe is the
standard detector now in use; it has been issued to all stations. It
2
consists of a 2-inch diameter, thin window (3-5 mg/cm ), halogen
quenched, pancake type G-M tube mounted in a free-standing aluminum
assembly (Figure 2.1). The sample (or standard) is placed in a movable
tray with the active side (side on which the particles have been
deposited) up and moved under the G-M tube to be counted. Normal
II-2-2
-------
operation is at 900 volts. Stations equipped with compatible sealers and
high voltage supplies may use the assembly separate from the survey meter
and obtain more precise results at lower activity levels.
2.1.3 Beta Calibration Standard. A beta calibration standard with
an area equal to the net collecting area of the air filter is provided for
checking equipment and determining beta activity during field estimates.
This standard has strontium-90 and yttrium-90, in equilibrium, deposited
on one side of a 3-1/2 inch diameter disc. The standard contains an
exempt quantity of by-product material. However, care should be exercised
to ensure its proper use and storage. When the standard is used, the
measurements should be made on the side with no label. Periodic updates
on the standard activity will be made in order to correct for decay.
Standards will be replaced when the activity decreases to an unacceptable
level.
2.2 Replacement Items
Replacement equipment and supplies are provided by the EERF on
receipt of the request form illustrated in Figure 1.1 at the end of this
section. Problems may also be reported by telephone to the Chief,
Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch, at (205) 272-3402 or
FTS 534-7615.
2.3 Maintenance
Maintenance of survey meters and detectors by station operators is
limited to replacing batteries and cleaning the exterior surfaces.
Erratic or higher than usual readings in an uncontaminated area may
indicate accumulated fallout or other radioactive contamination on the
II-2-3
-------
instrument probe. The possibility, however, is very small. If
contamination is suspected, wipe the exterior surfaces of the probe and
case with a dry cloth or one dampened with a mild detergent. DO NOT
DISASSEMBLE THE GM TUBE HOUSING. The sample holder or planchet may be
washed in soap and water as long as it is thoroughly rinsed and dried
before use. Any other maintenance must be performed by personnel at the
EERF.
2.4 Field Estimate Schedule
One or two field estimates are required on each air filter. The
first is made about 5 hours after the filter is removed from the sampler.
The five hour delay permits decay of radon daughters that may have been
attached to collected particles. If the first field estimate is greater
3
than 1.0 pCi/m , a second field estimate is made 29 hours after the
filter is removed. (Exception: If a station is in ERAMS ALERT STATUS, a
filter will be mailed directly to the EERF following the 5 hour reading.)
2.5 Procedures for Making a Field Estimate
Making field estimates with either the Thyac or the Eberline
instruments is basically the same, except for slight differences due to
instrument features. When making a reading on either instrument, meter
fluctuations should be observed for 10 seconds and visually averaged.
The Eberline E-120 has an adjustable response time that is controlled
by a knob labeled "RESPONSE" on the instrument case. When making the
field estimate using the E-120 this knob should be set to the most
counterclockwise position to provide slowest instrument response and
minimize meter fluctuations.
II-2-4
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The Eberline E-120 is also equipped with a battery check function.
When the range switch is set to the battery check position (BATT), the
meter should indicate in the "BATT OK" range. If the meter does not
indicate in the "BATT OK" range, replace the batteries.
Follow Steps 1-3 below for making field estimates:
STEP 1. Perform a calibration check to ensure that the instrument is
functioning properly.
1. Turn the meter range switch to the X100 CPM range.
2. Place the beta calibration standard, without the glassine
envelope, in the sample holder (see Figure 2.1).
3. Slide the holder and source into the counting position with
the standard beneath the detector. Make sure the active side
of the standard, the side without the label, is toward the
detector.
4. Read the meter. If the reading is less than 8,000 CPM on the
Thyac or 5,000 on the E-120, shift to the X10 range.
5. Reread the meter. If the meter is less than 800 CPM for the
Thyac or less than 500 CPM for the E-120, shift to the XI
range. The lowest range (XI, X10, X100) on which the meter
does not go off scale is the correct setting of the range
select knob.
6. Read the CPM for the standard, visually averaging the
fluctuations over a 10 second period. The reading should
II-2-5
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fall within + 10 percent of the value stated on the
standard. For example, if the stated standard activity
= 10,000 CPM, then + TO percent = + 1,000 CPM. Therefore,
the standard should read between 9,000 and 11,000 CPM. If
the instrument does not perform within these specifications,
it should be returned to the EERF for maintenance.
7. Record the calibration CPM obtained in 4, 5, or 6 above in
the appropriate "Standard Gross CPM" blanks on the ERAMS Air
and Precipitation Report (Figure 3.1).
STEP 2. Take a background reading.
1. Slide the sample holder and standard from the slot in the
detector assembly and replace the standard with an unused air
filter.
2. Set the meter range switch to the XI position.
3. Slide the blank filter in the holder into the slot in the
detector assembly.
4. Estimate the average reading by watching the needle
fluctuations for 10 seconds. The reading should be in the
25-200 CPM range. If the reading is higher than 200 CPM,
remove the sample holder and filter from the slot, wash the
holder with soap and water, place a new filter in the holder,
and slide the holder and filter into the slot. If the
reading is still high, there may either be contamination or a
faulty instrument. Call the EERF for assistance.
II-2-6
-------
5. Record the background reading in the appropriate "Background
CPM" blanks on the ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report.
STEP 3. Take the sample reading.
1. Turn the instrument range switch to the X100 position.
2. Place the filter to be evaluated in the sample holder with
the deposited side toward the detector and slide the holder
into the slot in the detector assembly.
3. Read the meter. If the reading is less than 8,000 CPM for
the Thyac or 5,000 CPM for the E-120, turn the range switch
to the X10 position.
4. Reread the meter. If the reading is less than 800 CPM for
the Thyac or 500 CPM for the E-120, turn the range switch to
the XI position.
5. Reread the meter. Visually average the meter fluctuations
for a 10 second period.
6. Record the reading obtained in (3), (4), or (5) above in the
appropriate "Sample Gross CPM" blank on the ERAMS Air and
Precipitation Report.
II-2-7
-------
Figure 2.1
"Pancake" GM Tube Attached Detector
II-2-8
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3 ROUTINE AIR REPORTS
The only routine report required of the ERAMS Station Operator is the
ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report (Figure 3.1), which is submitted for
each day that samples are taken. The report, together with the sample for
which the data are being reported, should be placed in a pre-addressed,
franked envelope and sent to the EERF as soon as all data are complete.
The station number should be written on the front of the envelope under
the words "Official Business." The data from the field estimate on the
air sample should be written on the data sheet. D£ not put data from
samples collected (removed from the sampler) on two different dates on the
same report sheet. It is important that the person completing the data
form sign his/her name. The EERF may need to contact that person if
additional information is required. NOTE: If the air precipitation
samples are being submitted simultaneously, then include precipitation
data on the ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report and enclose the air sample
and the completed form in the precipitation shipping container (see
Section 5, Precipitation Sampling, for detailed shipping instructons).
The data form will provide a duplicate copy for your files. The
white original must be returned to the EERF and the yellow copy should be
kept in the station operator's file.
3.1 General Instructions
Information pertaining to sample collections and data obtained from
air volume calculations and field estimates are recorded on the report
form following the outline given below.
II-3-1
-------
1. Station Number - Print your station number in the blank
provided.
2. Location - Print your station location.
3. Time Zone - Print your time zone and circle
STD for standard time or DST for daylight savings time.
4. Date of Collection - Write the date of the end of sample
collection.
5. Circle continuous duty.
o
6. Air Flow - Write the air flow rates (m /hour) as measured
at the start and end of sample collections.
7. Duration of Sampling - Write the month, day, and hour of
the start and end of sample collections.
8. Air Volume Calculations - Indicate whether or not the air
volume is known and, if not, the cause. Also indicate whether
or not the survey meter is working and, if not, the cause.
Calculate the air volume as follows:
a. Enter the Average Air Flow rate from step 5 [(m /hr
at start + rn3/hr at stop)/2].
b. Enter the Sampling Period from step 6 (elapsed time to
the nearest whole hour).
3
c. Calculate the Air Volume in m by multiplying the
average Air Flow rate by the sampling period.
9. First Field Estimate - Begin by indicating date and time of
first field estimate. NOTE: The time elapsed between
discontinuation of sampling and the first field estimate
should be no less than 5 hours.
11-3-2
-------
Next, calculate Standard Net Counts Per Minute (CPM) as
described in the following sequential steps:
a. Enter the Standard Gross CPM at the time of the first
field estimate.
b. Enter the Background CPM at the time of the first field
estimate.
c. Subtract the background CPM from the standard CPM to
give the Standard Net CPM.
Next, calculate the sample Net Counts Per Minute in the
following steps:
a. Enter the Sample Gross CPM at the time of the first
field estimate.
b. Enter the Background CPM at the time of the first field
estimate.
c. Subtract the background CPM from the sample CPM to give
the Sample Net CPM.
Now use these data to calculate the Field Estimate in the
following steps:
a. Enter the Sample Net CPM.
b. Enter the Standard Activity in picocuries. (You will be
provided this activity in January of each year for your
standard.)
II-3-3
-------
c. Enter the Air Volume in m from step 8.
d. Enter the Standard Net CPM.
e. Calculate the First Field Estimate in pCi/m .
10. Second Field Estimate - If a second field estimate is
required, it may be done using the same procedure as in 9
above, except that the second standard, background, and
filter counts are to be used for the calculations.
11. Not applicable to air sampling. Leave blank. NOTE: Air
and Precipitation Report Form must be signed and dated by
the preparer.
3.2 Sample ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report
Figure 3.2 illustrates a completed report form based on the following
information.
1. Station Number 408 located in Montgomery, Alabama, Central
Standard time zone, collected an air sample beginning at
0800 November 17, 1987, and ending at 0800 November 20, 1987.
2. The sample was collected at an initial air flow rate of 52
cubic meters per hour and a terminal flow rate of 50 cubic
meters per hour.
3. The first field estimate was performed at 1300 November 20,
1987, and yielded the following data: Standard (21,700 pCi)
gross count was 5,500 CPM; sample gross count was 350 CPM;
and the background count was 150 CPM.
II-3-4
-------
Figure 3.1
ERAMS AIR AND PRECIPITATION REPORT
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1880 Federal Drive. Montgomery, AL 36109
(205) 272-3402 FTS 534-7615
SAMPLE ID: R A N -
DATF Rer.FivFn- / 1
Year Month Day
r.flMMFNTS-
FIRST COUNT:
Length (Min)
SECOND COUNT:
/ /
Vear Month Day
Gross Counts
/ /
Year Month Day
Hour
System
Hour
Langth (Win)
(Wow For Use oy EERF Personnel Only)
Gross Counts
System
1
2.
3.
STATION NUMRFR
I NATION:
TIMFZONE: STD/DST
riATF DF nni i pnTinw / /
Year Month Day
5. TYPE OF SAMPLING: Continuous uj
Duty Duty
fi AIR Fl n* START m'/hr STOP m'/hr
7. DURATION OF SAMPLING
Start II Stnp / /
Time Month Day Hour Time Month Day Hour
8.
AIR VOLUME CALCULATION
X * =
Average Sampling Duty Cycle Air
Air Flow Period / On Time \ volume
(m'/hr) (Hours) ^Sample Period J (m>)
Is air volume known? YES NO
Motor Filter
Failure Failun
Is survey meter operable? YES NO
9.
FIRST FIELD ESTIMATE (AIR)
x
Sample NET CPM Standard Activity (pCI)
Air Vol. {m') Standard NET CPM
FIELD ESTIMATE (pCI/m')
HOURS TO 1st F.E. STANDARD READING SAMPLE READING
' r,™«« !•„„,,
Day Hour rpu r.pu
Bkgd Bkgd
CPU CPU
NET NET
CPU CPU
10. SECOND FIELD ESTIMATE (AIR)
Sample N6T CPM
Standard Activity (pCI)
HOURS TO 2nd F.E.
Day Hour
STANDARD READING
Gross
CPM
Air Vol (mj)
Standard NET CPM
Bkgd
CPM
FIELD ESTIMATE (pCI/m-)
NET
CPM
SAMPLE READING
Gross
-CPM
Bkgd
NET
_CPM
11. CALCULATION OF DEPTH OF PRECIPITATION
Volume collected (liters)
ColHctof ATM (nwen-l
Deptnol
Precipitation
(millimeters)
PRECIPITATION (Note type)
Snow Rain Other (Specify),
This Report Prepared 8y
EERF Form 1001
n«vis«dS.M 198?
II-3-5
-------
Figure 3.2
ERAMS AIR AND PRECIPITATION REPORT
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109
(205) 272-3402 FTS 534-7615
SAMPLE ID:
DATE RECEIVED:
COMMENTS:
R A N -
FIRST COUNT:
Day
Length (M.n)
SECOND COUNT:
Year Monlh
Year Month
Day
Day
Systam
langin (Min)
(Above For Use by EERF Personnel Only)
System
1. STATION NUMBER
^T U O
mon-Uri nn_)l>l^ [.pu .J^C^ Cpu
*5~£) B^B* ^/-) Bkgd
*T£/<"/1 NET 2/^1 /^ NET
^-> T^*-3 *-^ CPM ^JIJLJ CPU
Sample NET CPM
Standard Activity (pCI)
Standard NET CPM
FIELD ESTIMATE IpCi/m')
HOURS TO 2nd F.E.
Day Hour
STANDARD READING
Gross
CPM
Bkgd
CPM
NET
CPM
SAMPLE READING
Gross
-CPM
Bkgd
_CPM
NET
_CPM
11. CALCULATION OF DEPTH OF PRECIPITATION
Volume collected (liters)
CdkKlor Are* (m»un>)
Depth ol
Precipitation
(millimeters)
PRECIPITATION (Note type)
Snow Rain Other (Specify) _
This Regon Prepared By:
U ,20,
EERF Form 100"
Revised Sept . 1982
II-3-6
-------
4 ALERT AIR REPORTS
An alert condition within ERAMS means that the network is in a state
of maximum readiness and, usually, that one or more components are
operating on an increased sampling and reporting frequency. There are two
types of alerts, differing primarily by the way that each originates.
4.1 Type I Alert
In a Type I Alert, a known or suspected release of radioactivity into
the environment (e.g., a nuclear weapons test) has occurred. Accordingly,
the EERF notifies each station operator either directly or through an EPA
Regional Radiation Representative to go on alert status and to sample and
report results more frequently. In the case of pasteurized milk samples,
an FDA official normally requests the sample. Sampling and reporting
frequencies will be stated at the beginning of an alert.
4.2 Type II Alert
In a Type II Alert, the EERF declares an alert because elevated
levels of radioactivity have been detected and reported by one or more of
the ERAMS stations themselves.
4.3 Reporting
Station Operators should call in reports as soon as they have
completed the 5-hour field estimate. Calls should be directed to the
Chief, Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch, at the EERF according to
the following schedule:
11-4-1
-------
Regular Duty Hours The EERF telephones are manned from 8:00 A.M.
through 4:45 P.M. (central time) during weekdays, except federal
holidays. If daily operation has been requested of the entire network,
telephones will also be manned from 1:00 P.M. through 5:00 P.M. on
weekends and holidays. During regular duty hours, use the following
telephone numbers:
Commercial Number: (205) 272-3402
FTS Number: 534-7615
Non-Duty Hours The following personnel will receive alert reports at
home at the following numbers whenever the office is not manned:
Name Telephone Number
Charles R. Phillips (205) 277-8213
Jon A. Broadway (205) 272-9502
Charles R. Porter (205) 272-4714
NOTE: In alert situations the samples are to be mailed to the EERF
immediately after the 5-hour field estimate. The station operators may be
directed to use express mail, in which case they will be given an
authorization number to pay the extra postage.
II-4-2
-------
5 PRECIPITATION SAMPLING
Precipitation is collected continuously and samples are shipped to
the EERF on the same schedule as air particulate samples, assuming
measurable precipitation has been collected (more than 2 liters).
The precipitation collection unit is a 0.5 square meter area
fiberglass collector draining into a five gallon plastic bucket that
serves as a reservoir for the precipitation (Figure 5.1). In periods of
extreme rainfall, the bucket may overflow. If this occurs, contact the
local weather service or meteorologist to find out the millimeters
rainfall for your area. In sub-zero weather, some provisions may be
necessary to prevent the collected precipitation from freezing or to melt
snow that accumulates in the collection pan.
Analysis of precipitation samples at the EERF includes a gamma scan,
gross beta, and tritium analysis of monthly composite samples. Plutonium
and uranium analyses are performed on a composite of the March, April, and
May samples. Additional analyses are performed during an alert.
5.1 Equipment
Each station is provided the following items:
- precipitation collection unit
- plastic bucket
5.2 Supplies
Each station is provided the following expendable items:
(R)
- 4-liter Cubitainersv ' and lids (Cubitainer is a
registered trademark of Hedwin)
- adhesive data labels
II-5-1
-------
- ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report forms
- mailing cartons
- franked mailing labels
5.3 Replacement items
Equipment and/or supplies will be replaced on receipt of the request
form illustrated in Figure 5.2 at the end of this section. Supplies may
also be requested from the EERF by telephone. You may contact the ERAMS
Supply Officer at (205) 272-3402 or FTS 534-7615.
5.4 Equipment Installation
ERAMS precipitation collection equipment will be supplied complete
and ready to install. It will only be necessary to secure the unit by
attaching the leg base plates to any stable surface. The unit may be
modified to accommodate sloping surfaces by removing two legs and
shortening them as necessary.
5.5 Sampling Schedule
Precipitation is collected continuously. Samples should be shipped
to the EERF, when measurable precipitation occurs (greater than 2 liters),
on the same schedule as air particulate samples, i.e., Monday/Thursday or
Tuesday/Friday schedule.
5.6 Maintenance
The precipitation collection unit requires minimum maintenance. This
includes a daily check for leaks or debris in the system and a monthly
cleaninji of the surface collection area and the inside of the bucket with
a mild soap and brush or cloth. Cleaning may be required more often in
some areas. NOTE: Be sure to rinse the unit at least 3 times with clean
water after washing.
11-5-2
-------
5.7 Sample Collections
Follow the steps listed below to collect and prepare a sample:
1. Determine the volume in the bucket by either measuring it in a
graduated cylinder or reading the volume with the provided
measuring stick.
2. From the bucket spigot or from the graduated cylinder, put 4
liters of water into a Cubitainer. If the bucket contains less
than 4 liters, use the entire volume.
3. Screw the Cubitainer cap on tightly, seal with tape, and check
for leaks.
4. Discard any remaining water. Only one 4-liter sample is
required for any sampling period.
5. Complete a data label (Figure 5.3) and place it on the top of
the Cubitainer.
6. Record the type of precipitation on the ERAMS Air and
Precipitation Report. An equation is provided on the form to
calculate depth of precipitation:
a. Enter volume collected in liters.
b. Enter collector area, which is 0.5 square meters.
c. Calculate depth of precipitation in millimeters by dividing
the collector area into the volume.
7. Set up an inner shipping carton (the one with the hole in the
top) and place the filled Cubitainer in it. Close the top.
8. Set up an outer shipping carton, and place it in the inner
carton and the ERAMS Air and Precipitation Report Form along
11-5-3
-------
with the data pertaining to air particle collections and the air
filter for that day. Seal with reinforced tape.
9. Place a franked mailing label, addressed to the Eastern
Environmental Radiation Facility (EERF), on the outside of the
outer carton and mail.
10. Include data pertaining to sample collections in the ERAMS Air
and Precipitation Report form (Figure 3.1) along with data
pertaining to air particulate collections for that same day.
11-5-4
-------
Figure 5.1
Precipitation Collection Unit
II-5-5
-------
Figure 5.2
ERAMS EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLY REQUEST
Precipitation Component
Requested by:
Date:
Station:
Address:
Telephone: { )
[7 Mailing Cartons £7 Franked Mailing Labels
rj Data Labels f7 Cubitainers
[J Equipment (specify) £7 Parts (specify)
Comments:
Please return this form to the attention of:
Chief, Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive
Montgomery, Alabama 36109
(205) 272-3402; FTS 534-7615
11-5-6
-------
Figure 5.3
Precipitation Data Label
Station No. Location
Collected from __/_/__ to _/_/
yr mo day yr mo day
Amount Collected liters
II-5-7
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6 DRINKING WATER SAMPLING
Drinking water samples are collected from finished water supplies
serving major population centers. The tap sampled should be one that is
known to be connected to the desired water system. The tap selected
should be one which is frequently used and provides water that has had no
on-site treatment such as water softeners or filters.
Analyses of drinking water samples at the EERF include tritium on each
quarterly sample and a gamma scan, gross alpha, gross beta, radium, strontium,
plutonium, and uranium on a yearly composite of the quarterly samples. Iodine
analysis is done once a year on one sample from each location.
6.1 Supplies
Each station is provided the following expendable items.
- 4-liter Cubitainers
- Drinking Water Report forms
- mailing cartons
- franked mailing labels
6.2 Replacement Items
Supplies will be mailed to each sampling location on a quarterly
basis. Additional supplies may be requested by telephoning the EERF at
(205) 272-3402 or FTS 534-7615.
6.3 Sampling Schedule
Drinking water is collected quarterly in January, April, July, and
October of each year. The station operator may use receipt of the
quarterly collection supplies as notice to collect that quarter's sample
and return it to the EERF.
II-6-1
-------
6.4 Sample Collections
Follow the steps listed below to collect and prepare a sample:
1. Open a cold water tap and allow it to flow until the water
reaches its coolest natural temperature (about 2 minutes).
2. Before filling, check that the 4-liter Cubitainer provided by
the EERF has the correct location indicated. If not, identify
your location using a waterproof felt tip marker.
3. Fill the Cubitainer directly from the tap until the water level
is within 2 cm of the top.
4. Screw the Cubitainer cap on tightly, seal with tape, and check
for leaks.
5. Complete the Drinking Water Report form (Figure 6.1).
6. Set up an inner shipping carton (the one with the hole in the
top) and place the filled Cubitainer in it. Close the top.
7. Set up an outer shipping carton, place the inner carton and the
report form in it, and seal with reinforced tape.
8. Place a franked mailing label, addressed to the Eastern
Environmental Radiation Facility, on the outside of the outer
carton and mail.
II-6-2
-------
Station:
Tap Location:
Figure 6.1
ERAMS DRINKING WATER REPORT
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109
(205) 272-3402; FTS 534-7615
Local Sample ID (if any):
Comments:
Quarter: Jan-Mar Apr-Jun Jul-Sep Oct-Dec
Sample Collector:
Year:
Phone Number : ( )
Date of Collection:
II-6-3
-------
7.3 Replacement Items
Supplies will be mailed to each sampling location on a quarterly
basis. Additional supplies may be requested by telephoning the Chief,
Monitoring and Analytical Services Branch, at (205) 272-3402 or
FTS 534-7615.
7.4 Sampling Schedule
Surface water is collected quarterly 1n January, April, July, and
October of each year. The station operator may use the receipt of the
quarterly collection supplies as notice to collect that quarter's sample.
7.5 Sample Collections
Follow the steps listed below to collect and prepare a sample:
1. Collect water in a clean 5-liter sampling bucket by dipping it
or casting it, as necessary. Avoid getting bottom sediment in
the water sample. If it 1s necessary to wade Into the water,
sample upstream of where you are standing.
2. Prior to filling, check that the Cubltalner provided by the EERF
has the correct location Indicated. If not, Identify your
location using a waterproof felt tip marker. Note that the
April-June sample should be collected using a 4-liter
Cubitainer. The other three quarterly samples will be collected
using a 1-liter Cubitainer.
3. Insert a clean funnel in the Cubltalncr and transfer the water
from the sampling bucket to the container. Fill to within 2 cm
of the top.
4. Screw the container cap on tightly, seal with tape, and check
for leaks.
I1-7-2
-------
Figure 7.1
ERAMS SURFACE WATER REPORT
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive, Montgomery, AL 36109
(205) 272-3402; FTS 534-7615
Station:
Sampling Location:
(provide specific location on river, bay, lake, etc.)
Local Sample ID (if any):
Comments:
Quarter: Jan-Mar Apr-Jun Jul-Sep Oct-Dec Year:
Sample Collector:
Phone Number : ( )
Date of Collection:
I1-7-4
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8 PASTEURIZED MILK SAMPLING
This is a cooperative program of the Environmental Protection Agency
and the Food and Drug Administration. Milk is a reliable indicator of
the general population's intake of radionuclides, since it is consumed
fresh by a large segment of the population and it may contain several
biologically important radionuclides. Primary functions of this program
are to obtain representative samples of milk, to measure the radionuclide
concentrations, and to determine any long-term trends.
The monthly weighted composite samples should represent greater than
80 percent of the milk consumed in each major population center sampled.
Weighting and compositing of the sample is accomplished by first
determining the daily volume of milk produced by each dairy plant that
supplies the sample population. (Each dairy plant typically processes
milk received from several dairy farms.) The volumes (or weights) for the
individual dairy plants are added to yield the total milk supply for the
population served. Beginning with the largest, the dairy plants which
supply 80 percent of the total milk supply are selected to be sampled.
Milk from these selected dairy plants is composited into the 3.5 liter
sample based on the ratio of that plant's contribution to the total milk
represented. An example of this procedure is presented in Section 8.4.
Monthly samples are analyzed for iodine, barium, cesium, and
potassium. One sample from each location is analyzed annually in July
for strontium. Also, for the first month of each of the three quarters
11-8-1
-------
beginning January, April, and October, regional composite samples made
up from the states within each of EPA's ten regions are analyzed for
strontium.
8.1 Supplies
Each station will be supplied with the following items:
- 4-liter plastic bottles
- sample preservative
- Pasteurized Milk Report forms (Figure 8.1)
- mailing cartons
- franked mailing labels
8.2 Replacement Items
Supplies will be mailed monthly to each sample location. Additional
supplies may be requested by telephoning the Chief, Monitoring and
Analytical Services Branch, at (205) 272-3402 or FTS 534-7615.
8.3 Sampling Schedule
Pasteurized milk is collected monthly during the first full week of
the month.
8.4 Sample Collections
Follow the steps listed below to collect and prepare a sample:
1. Determine the daily average volume of pasteurized milk produced
by each dairy plant that supplies the subject population.
2. Sum each plant's production to determine the total milk supply.
3. Select the major plants whose combined milk production, when
compared to total milk production, would represent at least 80
percent of the total.
II-8-2
-------
4. Composite the rnilk collected from these plants on a weighted
(ratio) basis to produce the 3.5 liter sample. Example; The
subject population is supplied by six dairy plants. Each plant
collects the average daily volumes of milk from the farms as
shown below.
Plant
No. of Farms Total Daily Volume
1. Smith Farms 27
2. Jones Dairy 19
3. Milk Distributors 10
4. Jersey Incorporated 10
5. Farm Products 7
6. Happy Dairy 3
TOTAL PRODUCTION
40,000 gal/day
25,000
15,000
10,000
5,000
5,000
100,000 gal/day
Knowing that the pasteurized milk sample should represent at least 80
percent of the milk produced, we find that the combined volumes of plants
1, 2, and 3 represent 80,000 gal/day out of 100,000 gal/day total
production or 80 percent of total production. It will not be necessary to
sample and include plants 4 through 6 when compositing the sample.
Each plant's contribution is calculated by multiplying the ratio of
that plant's production to the total production by the 3.5 liters needed
to make up the sample.
I1-8-3
-------
P1 a n t Ratio Desired Milk Contribution
Sample Volume to Sample"
No. 1 40.000 gal/day v - R m.a-c = 1-75 liters
60,000 gal/day x ^ nters (1750 ml)
No. 2 25,000 gal/day . 5 Hters , 1.094 liters
80,000 gal/day x *m* luers (1094ml)
No. 3 15,000 gal/day , K ,,«.„,_ 0.656 liters
80,000 gal/day x J'b luers (656 ml)
TOTAL SAMPLE 3.50 liters
(3500 ml)
5. Add to the 4-liter shipping bottle that volume of pasteurized
milk that represents each plant's weighted contribution as
calculated above.
6. Add the preservative to the sample and mix well.
7. Screw the bottle cap on tightly, seal with tape, and check for
leaks.
8. Complete the Pasteurized Milk Report form (Figure 8.1).
9. Place the 4-liter plastic bottle along with the report form in
the mailing carton. Strap the carton closed.
10. Place a franked mailing label, addressed to the Eastern
Environmental Radiation Facility, on the outside of the carton
and mail.
I1-8-4
-------
Figure 8.1
ERAMS PASTEURIZED MILK REPORT
Eastern Environmental Radiation Facility
1890 Federal Drive
Montgomery, Alabama 36109
(205) 272-3402; FTS 534-7615
SAMPLE COLLECTION DATA
(To be returned with each sample)
1. Your sample Identification Number,
if any:
4. Principal City:
2. Name and Address of Sample
Collector:
5. Date Sample Produced/Collected:
Check here if this is a
new name or address.
6. Amount of Milk which sample
represents. Specify pounds or
gallons produced per day:
3. Names of Contributing Plants/
Dairies. Use additional sheets
if necessary.
7. Number of Shippers contributing
to sample:
8. EPA-EERF bottle number:
9. Remarks:
10. Date:
11. Signature:
II-8-5
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