OPERATIONS PLAN
FOR
OFF-SITE SURVEILLANCE FOR THE LAUNCH OF A SNAP-19
May 10, 1968
Prepared by
Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory
U. S. Public Health Service
Department of Health, Education, and Welfare
Las Vegas, Nevada
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
I. INTRODUCTION 1
II. RESPONSIBILITIES 1
III. OPERATING PROCEDURES 1
A. Interagency Relations 1
B. Personnel 2
C. Communications ^
D. Field Plan 2
E. Reports 3
Appendix A Selected Sample Control and Analytical Procedures
Used at the Southwestern Radiological Health Labora-
tory . A-l
Appendix A-1 Laboratory Procedures A -1
Appendix A-2 Rapid Method for the Determination of Gross
Alpha in Sea Water and Natural Water Samples A-2
Appendix A.-3 A Rapid Method for the "Estimation" of Deposited
Alpha Activity on Soil, Vegetation and Similar
Sample Types A-4
Appendix A-4 A Rapid Method for the Estimation of Deposited
Alpha Activity on Flora A-6
Appendix A-5 Radioassay Procedures A-7
Appendix B General Field Procedures B-l
Appendix B-l Monitoring and Record Keeping B-l
Appendix B-2 Field Unit Check List B-3
Appendix B-3 Instrument Instructions B -4
Appendix B-4 Sample Identification and Marking B-8
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OPERATIONS PLAN
FOR
OFF-SITE SURVEILLA NCE
FOR
THE LAUNCH OF A SNAP-19
I. INTRODUCTION
The Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory (SWRHL) of the
National Center for Radiological Health, U.S. Public Health Service
will provide off-site monitoring for the launch of the SNAP-19 from
Vandenberg AFB, California.
II. RESPONSIBILITIES
The SWRHL will provide the services listed below, with respect
to the off-site area.
1. Maintain a record of background environmental radioactivity
levels during the launch activities to assure protection of
the general population and environment.
2. Provide liaison regarding health protection between local
and state officials and officials of the 1st Strategic Air
Division.
3. Provide community information to assure the public that their
safety will be protected during the launch.
4. Identify specific hazards, if any, associated with the launch
and assist in carrying out appropriate protective measures.
III. OPERATING PROCEDURES
A. Interagency Relations
The interagency relations program shall be the direct responsi-
bility of the Public Health Service Project Officer. He will contact
local, state, and military leaders throughout the off-site area to
describe the surveillance activities. He or his representative will
follow up all initial contacts to answer questions which may arise""
and provide continuity of information.
That area outside the Vandenberg AFB. The area of immediate interest
includes Santa Barbara County.
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B. Personnel
Personnel will be assigned from the Southwestern Radiological
Health Laboratory. This staff will receive special alpha monitoring
training at the SWRHL as well as receive actual alpha monitoring
experience at the Nevada Test Site (NTS). The staff will be in the
field at D-3 days for orientation, communications check and back-
ground determination. The Director of SWRHL will be in charge of
all PHS personnel and will be currently advised by the Project
Officer. Assignments of personnel will be made prior to the start
of the activities.
C. Communications
Two-way radio communication is planned through radios installed
in vehicles. Standby points will be previously selected in order
to maintain continuous communications. Radio communications are
through a simplex system, but terrain precludes direct contact and
an airborne voice relay is planned. Preliminary investigation will
establish the locations for optimum communication.
Each standby unit will inform the field office of the number
of a phone near the standby position. In the event of radio failure,
commercial telephones will be utilized.
P. Field Plan
On launch day four mobile units will be on standby at strategic
points throughout Santa Barbara County, two additional units will be
on standby in the Vandenberg area for commitment as events dictate.
It is anticipated that the units will be located at Santa Maria,
Vandenberg Village, Gaviota, and Buellton.
Each mobile unit will be equipped with suitable monitoring instru-
mentation for the measurement of alpha radiation as well as the de-
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tcction of the low energy gamma radiation from specific types of
alpha omitting nuclides; sample containers for the collection of
water, vegetation and soil; portable air samplers for unattended
air sample operation in remote areas; the necessary supplies and
forms for proper documentation of PHS field activities. In case
of accident each unit will establish an air sampler at a previously
designated location and initiate action as directed by the Project
Officer. Six air samplers will be operated continuously for 24
hours through the day of the launch. Sampling sites will be at
Vandenberg Air Force Base,. Lompoc, Surf, Jalama, Buellton, and
Gaviota. These sites will be operated without regard to incidents.
In case of accident, the Public Health Service personnel will
document any radioactivity which is released. They will also
be available to provide assistance and consultation if an un-
foreseen emergency occurs. In addition, they will collect local
environmental samples for laboratory documentation of the extent
o:f contamination.
In case of accident, monitors will determine the extent of con-
tamination using survey meters. More accurate assessment of the
contamination will be obtained through laboratory analysis of
samples collected from the field. This laboratory analysis will
consist of the gross alpha procedures identified as Appr-ndix A.
E. Reports .
A consolidated summary of SWRHL activities giving actions taken,
areas covered, and field results will be prepared at the conclusion
of the launch operation. This report will be submitted to appropriate
government agencies and State and local health departments.
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APPENDIX A
Sc.l.ecl.ed Sample Control and Analytical Procedures used at t ho
Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory.
APPENDIX A-1
Laboratory Procedures
Sample Control. One person will be responsible for receiving and
•logging samples as they are brought in from the field. Samples will be
assigned a number by the person in charge of logging. The Off-Site
data sheet will be used for air samples. Simple logging of location
and time are all that is initially required.
A-l
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Mi'Uunl I
APPENDIX A-2
A Rapid Method for the Determination of Gross Alpha
in Sea Water and Natural Water Samples
Int. reduction
This method describes a rapid procedure for the determination of soluble
and suspended alpha activity in sea water. This method is also applicable to
other natural water samples. The recovery, using a plutonium nitrate spike,
averaged 80%.
Sample
Results by this method are entirely dependent upon the sample, A
representative sample must be secured, and the analysis made as soon as
possible.
Apparatus and Reagents
Beaker, graduated, 1,000 ml
Counter, laboratory, any suitable alpha counter
Planchet, stainless steel, 2 inch with 5/16 rim
Tube, immersion, 60 M (Corning Catalog #39535 or equivalent)
pH Paper
Ammonium Hydroxide, Concentrated
Cerric Nitrate, 0.5 M
Ferric Chloride, 1 M
Nitric Acid, concentrated, 3N
Procedure
1. A 1,000 ml sample of water is measured in a graduated beaker.
2. Add, with stirring, 20 ml concentrated HNO , 0.5 ml of 0.5 M Cerric
o
nitrate, and 2 drops of 1 M ferric chloride - in that order.
NOTE: A blank determination should be run on the Cerric nitrate.
A-2
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.'< „ Adjust to a pli of 9, with pH paper', us inn concentrated Nil Oil, sti.r
and add 2-3 drops excess,
/I„ Let precipitate form. Filter, using an immersion tube, discard the
supcrn.atc.
r>. Dissolve the precipitate by carefully washing the walls of the
beaker and face of the immersion tube with a minimum of 3 N UNO.
(5. Transfer quantitatively to a tared planchet using 3 N UNO , evaporate,
O
flame and weigh. Submit for alpha counting.
A 3
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Me I,ho (I 2
APPENDIX A-3
A Rapid Method for the "Estimation" of Deposited
Alpha Activity on Soil, Vegetation and
Similar Sample Types
Introduction
This method describes a procedure for the "estimation" of alpha activity
in soil and vegetation samples. Leafy flora samples will be done by Method 3,
Appendix B-4.
The sample is leached in a beaker with nitric acid and the sample is
filtered. Evaporation of a suitable portion of the filtrate is followed by
counting. A portion of the solids is tested for any remaining alpha activity.
When the method was run as specified, a yield recovery of 80% average was
obtained for soluble plutonium nitrate spikes.
Apparatus and Reagents
Beaker, 1,000 ml
Counter, laboratory, any suitable low level alpha counter
Filter paper, #2
Filter flask, 1,000 m
Buchner funnel, 3"
Flask volumetric, 1,000 ml
Hot plate, electric
Planchet, stainless steel, 2" diameter
Stirring rods, mechanical or manual
Nitric, acid, 3 N
Procedure .
1. Transfer the entire weighed sample (200 g or less) to a 1 liter.
beaker. Add 400 ml 3 N HNO and place on hot plate.
O
2. Bring and keep solution near boiling for 30 minutes with stirring.
A -4
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3. Cool and filter through a Buchner funnel with #2 filter paper under
vacuum. Save filtrate.
4. Repeat leach a second time combining filtrates. Dilute filtrates
to 1,000 ml.
0. Take a suitable aliquot (Note #1) of filtrate- to give a residue upon
evaporating in planchet of not more than 100 mg.
6. Evaporate aliquot to dryness, flame, weigh, and submit for alpha
counting. '
NOTES:
1. The "suitable aliquot" in step #5 can be determined by running
evaluation samples from the area of sampling.
2, The leached soil or vegetation should be dried and several 80-100 mg
portions counted on a planchet in a proportional counter to estimate
any large amount of insoluble alpha activity.
3. The occurrence of natural Q activity in soil, and unreprodqcible
sampling conditions introduce errors of unacceptable magnitude when
soil reporting results are in units of activity per unit area.
A -5
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Method 3
APPENDIX A-4
A Rapid Method for the Estimation of Deposited
Alpha Activity on Flora
Introduction
This method describes a washing procedure to remove deposited activity
on flora. A sample of 50-100 g is placed in a 400 ml beaker and washed with
1 N HNO_ in an ultrasonic cleaner. Evaporation of the wash water depending
O ,
upon solids present, is followed by counting. A 90% average recovery, is
obtained for this procedure.
Apparatus and Reagents
Ultrasonic cleaner - tank unit, Harrison Model 751 or equivalent.
Beaker, 400 ml
Counter, laboratory
Nitric Acid, IN
Planchet, stainless steel, 2" diameter
Procedure
1. Weigh a suitable sample (50-100 g) and transfer to a 400 ml beaker.
2. Add 200 ml 1 N NHO., and place in a suitable ultrasonic cleaner tank.
o
Operate unit for 10 minutes.
3. Carefully remove flora, washing with 1 N HNO.,. Evaporate wash solution
*5
to near dryness and transfer to a planchet, evaporate to dryness,
flame and weigh. Submit for alpha counting.
NOTES:
If the wash solution contains a large amount of solids, an aliquot should
be taken for counting. Maximum residue on the planchet should not exceed
100 mg.
. .A-6
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APPENDIX A-5
Raclioassay Procedures
Gross alpha determination will be made using a Beckman Wide-Beta
proportional counter. Calculations to be used with the counter are as
follows:
pCi (alpha activity)/gm = cpm _,
E x 2.22 x wt. of sample (gm)
WHERE: E = Determined from following table
Sample Thickness (mg/cm ) 0 2.5 5
E ' '2721 16"
2
pCi (alpha activity)/ft = pCi/gm x wt.. of sample (gm)
WHERE: pCi/gm = from above
64 2
A = Area sampled (TT, ft )
A-7
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APPENDIX B
General Field Procedures
APPENDIX B-1
Monitoring and Record Keeping
Field units will compile a comprehensive record of all their
activities. The record will consist of the date, the location, the
times of action, the times of receipt of radio or telephone messages,
the point of contact in terms of telephone number and location. They
will also maintain a record of general readings obtained with the
low energy gamma probe (PG-1) on the PAC 1-S instrument for background
purposes prior to and during the launch. These values will be recorded
by place, time and level with instrument number identification. This .
field log will contain specific data on samples taken and also summarize
conversations held between PHS personnel and local individuals.
The PAC 1-S is a sensitive alpha survey instrument capable of giving
reliable readings when used with caution. Since this is a scintillation
counter, it is susceptible to light leaks. Before being taken to the field,
all instruments will have been checked for light leakage. To avoid punqtur-
ing the light seal by stones, sticks or sharp edges of surface material, sur-
vey personnel will handle the instruments with extreme caution. Since it
is an alpha measuring instrument, the head must be placed in close proximity
to the source of material because of the limited range of alpha particles
in air. It should be carefully laid on a flat surface, that has no pro-
trusions which may puncture the light seal, and allowed to come to equ^li-r
brium. For those activities which are below the sensitivity of the inte-
grating circuitry, a count can be obtained by use of a stop watch and the
headset. Audible pulses can be then totaled for a known interval and the
number of counts per minute determined.
This technique of monitoring does not lend itself to rapidly closing
upon a contamination source. Therefore, for initial detection, a low energy
gamma detector is provided which can be used to approach.the source. However,
B -1
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the sensitivity of the gamma probe is much less than that of the flat area
alpha probe and for the delineation of action areas the flat area probe
will be used.
All instruments should be periodically checked against the source
provided with the monitoring kit.
B-2
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APPENDIX B-2
Field Unit Check List
Ebcrlinc Emergency Monitoring Kit (PAC 1-S with Alpha scintilla tor probe
and low-energy gamma probe) .
2 Portable air samplers w/propane tanks
Glass fiber and membrane filters
Clippers and knife for vegetation sampling
Plastic bags for packaging soil and vegetation samples
Gallon bottles and cardboard boxes for water samples
Data sheets for air samplers
Monitoring log sheets
Glassine envelopes for packaging air sampler filters
Felt tip marking pens and grease pencils
Shovel and miscellaneous small tools
Field log book. .
B-3
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APPENDIX B-3
Instrument Instructions
The PAC 1-S instrument, as delivered, has the alpha probe connected
and calibrated. The tape on the side of the alpha probe lists the meter
reading which should be obtained when the alpha check source is centered
in the protective cover and the probe is resting on the source. The count
rate recorded on the probe may differ from that listed on the source. In
that event, use the value on the probe.
There are two sources provided with each kit.
1. Radium source, approximately 5 microcuries, for use with, E-500B.
2. Uranium source for alpha probe and low energy gamma probe (PG-1),
The backside has a count rate and serial number. The plateside or
front side appears as uncovered metal, be careful not to touch with any-
thing. ' ' .
To check for light leaks, place on X-l scale, turn the face to the
sun (or other strong light source) and tip in various positions watching
indication. Cable noise will cause minor needle movement while rotating
the probe. The needle will remain high while the probe is held steady if a
light leak is present. If a major meter indication is observed, hold
the probe against the body.to cut out all light. If the reading drops,
the needle deflection was caused by a light leak. When a light leak is
observed in direct light, turn the probe away from the light source to
determine if leaks are minor and if the instrument is usable. A minor
leak would be reflected under 500 counts per minute. With a major leak,
hold the probe facing direct light and cover with cardboard or other
shield. Gradually open up the area to light by sliding the shield across
the probe to locate the grid area involved. Recover and slide off at 90
to original direction to isolate the portion of the grid area involved.
B-4
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Paint this area with black lacquer provided with the kit. In using
the lacquer, wipe the major portion off the brush and apply a thin
coat to a small area.
After repair, repeat the pertinent instructions to determine
the effectiveness of the procedure.
B-5
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Changing to PG-1 (low energy gamma probe)
1. Turn instrument off.
2. Remove alpha probe at probe end of cable.
3. Connect PG-1 probe to cable.
4. Instrument may peg on X-l scale so turn to X-10'scale.
5. Remove case with Ra source to a point at least 15 feet away.
6. Remove cap from discriminator.
7. Using small Eberline key chain screwdriver found in each kit, turn
discriminator in clockwise direction to the stop, then back off
(counter clockwise) 30 (2/3 of one division).
8. Check response by placing alpha check source on flat surface with
metal up, cover with top of plastic petri dish (the top has the
larger diameter), rest the end of PG-1 probe on top of petri dish
cover. Instrument should read value written on tape stuck to side
of PG-1 probe. This is an operational check and not a calibration.
9. Replace discriminator cap.
Use of PG-1 Probe
This probe is not and cannot be calibrated to give quantitative information
on contamination. It is only an indicator or a search tool. Suspected
contamination can be approached holding the cable and allowing the probe to
hang about one foot from the ground. Indications of activity should be
reassessed with the alpha probe.
Failure of the PG-1 to detect activity is not absolute proof that
contamination is not present. However, it does provide information that
action levels have not been exceeded. Further evaluation of possible contami-
nation must be conducted by use of the alpha probe.
Replacing Alpha Probe
1. Turn instrument off.
2. Remove PG-1 from probe end of cable.
B-6
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3. Connect alpha probe to cable.
4. Turn instrument on to X-10 scale.
5. Remove discriminator cap.
6. Place alpha source with metal up inside circle in protective cover.
7. Place probe over source in protective cover.
8. 'With small screwdriver, slowly turn discriminator counter clockwise
until meter movement is first observed. Continue turning counter
clockwise in small increments allowing meter movement to stablize
after each increment until meter indicates the counts per minute
rate for source as marked on side of alpha probe. Use the value
placed on the probe rather than.the count rate given on the source.
There may be a difference between the two values. Check to see
that the source serial number matches the serial number recorded
with the count rate on the side of the probe.
9. Replace the discriminator cap.
Use of Alpha Probe . . :
238
1. The range of Pu alpha is less than 4 cm in air, therefore, the
alpha probe must be close to the surface being evaluated.
2. The instrument is of the scintillation type and the light seal
(window area) which will admit alpha particles and exclude light
is easily torn or punctured.
3. Only qualitative information can be obtained from non-uniform surfaces.
4. Quantitative information must be obtained from flat surfaces which
extend beyond the probe on all sides. The probe must rest on or
be adjacent to the flat surface for quantitative reading.
5. For most accurate quantitation the meter should remain horizontal.
6. After placing the probe, allow the needle to stabilize. The time
necessary for stabilization is greater on the lower scales.
7. Recorded values should be the average of 5 readings taken one at
each corner and one in the center of a square meter area.
8. Each of the 5 readings used to develop the above average value should
be the mean between upper and lower meter fluctuations observed
for each probe position.
B-7
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APPENDIX D-4
Sample Identification and Marking-
It is imperative that all samples collected in the field be suitably
marked for subsequent identification. The sample information necessary is:
10 The description of the location sufficiently detailed for a second
person to return to that area and take a duplicate sample.
2. The time and date of collection,
3. The type of sample.
4. The person collecting the sample.
5. Any additional remarks regarding condition of the soil, the sample,
or the weather which may be pertinent to analysis or interpretation,
This information should be recorded in the monitoring log and also on a
sample identification sheet which will accompany the sample.
B-8
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