-------
COVER A MONITOR COLLECTS A WATER SAMPLE
FROM ONE OF SEVERAL LOCATIONS AROUND THE
NEVADA TEST SITE WHERE SURFACE WATER IS
COLLECTED AND ANALYZED REGULARLY. WERL
MONITORS ALSO REGULARLY COLLECT SAMPLES
FROM GROUNDWATER SOURCES AND COMMUNITY
WATER SUPPLIES TO CHECK ON THE POSSIBLE
INTRUSION OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL.
-------
FOREWORD
This report represents a summary of activities conducted by this
Laboratory during calendar year 1970. The year 1970 was a year of
transition for the Laboratory; in December it was transferred from the
U. S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare, Public Health
Service, to the newly-created Environmental Protection Agency. Early
in 1971 the Laboratory name was changed, in keeping with its new,
broader mission, to the Western Environmental Research Laboratory,
the name reflected on the cover of this report. However, the
Laboratory's old name, Southwestern Radiological Health Laboratory,
is pertinent for the time period discussed herein and is used throughout
the report.
All the work which we perform cannot be described in detail in a
document of this size; therefore, only selected topics are discussed in
depth and, hopefully, will give the reader an accurate impression of the
extent of the Laboratory's programs.
We would welcome at any time inquiries concerning any of the
activities described in this report and we would like to express our
grateful appreciation to the organizations and individuals whose efforts
have contributed to the success of our mission and the attainment of
specific objectives.
-------
The Western Environmental Research Laboratory
occupies six buildings on the campus of the Uni-
versity of Nevada, Las Vegas. During most of
calendar year 1970 the Laboratory was a compo-
nent of the Bureau of Radiological Health, Pub-
lic Health Service, U. S. Department of Health,
Education and Welfare, and was named the South-
western Radiological Health Laboratory (SWRHL),
the name which is used throughout this report.
At the end of 1970, however, SWRHL was trans-
ferred to the newly-formed Environmental Protec-
tion Agency (EPA). In addition to conducting pro-
grams funded directly by the EPA, SWRHL is
responsible for the public health and safety pro-
gram related to nuclear testing by the U.S. Atomic
Energy Commission (AEC). In accordance with a
Memorandum of Understanding with the AEC, ef-
fective since 1954, the EPA through SWRHL is
responsible for comprehensive radiological safety
programs in public areas around the Nevada Test
Site (NTS) and wherever nuclear tests are con-
ducted.
Radiological and related safety programs are
carried out in support of the Nuclear Rocket
Development Station (NRDS), the Tonopah Test
Range (TTR), and the Air Force Western Test
Range at Vandenberg Air Force Base, Cal ifornia.
Additionally, the Laboratory serves as a tech-
nical and scientific resource to most of the
states west of the Mississippi River, including
Alaska, Hawaii and certain areas of the Pacific.
Many SWRHL training, research, and operational
projects are entirely dependent on the coopera-
tion and assistance of various state organiza-
tions, local government, other federal agencies,
universities, research groups and private citizens.
The organizational structure of SWRHL, as illus-
trated, is comprised of five separate operating
programs. Most SWRHL operating objectives,
however, require an interdependent and coopera-
tive sequence of activities, employing talents,
services and equipment assigned to other pro-
grams. Utilization of capabilities and operational
cost savings are realized in the Irequent inter-
change of manpower, facilities, and equipment
to adjust for shifting workloads, especially dur-
ing periods of nuclear testing activity. At such
times, professional, craft and clerical personnel
serve on a voluntary basis as monitors, public
information agents, and communications or trans-
portation assistants. The experience and train-
ing acquired during these short-term tours of
special duty enhance the technical manpower
resources of SWRHL and, accordingly, provide
the Laboratory with standby versatility.
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3
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR
MARIANNE CARPENTER
SECURITY REPRESENTATIVE
ORGANIZATION CHART
SOUTHWESTERN RADIOLOGICAL HEALTH LABORATORY
TECHNICAL TRAINING
T C SELL. CHIEF
ENVIRONMENTAL SURVEILLANCE
0 T WRUBLE. CHIEF
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
JOHN E REGNIER
F N BUCK, CHEF
J S COOGAN, CHIEF
fl 0 TATE. CHCF
OFFICE OF
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
NORMA COX,
MANAGEMENT OFFICER
ft F SMIECINSKI. CHIEF
G S DOUGLAS. CHIEF
RADIOLOGCAL RESEARCH
A A MOGHISSI, CHCF
TECHNICAL SERVICES
R E JAQUISH. CHEF
ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS
H f STEWART CHIEF
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4
Programs at the SWRHL are funded from Environ-
mental Protection Agency allocations, from the
Public Health Service, and from reimbursable
funds provided by the Atomic Energy Commission
through its Nevada Operations Office (NVOO).
Logistical support for the various SWRHL pro-
jects is provided through a centralized General
Services Section. This service includes the re-
quisition, purchase and warehousing of over 600
different items of supply; operation of a central
telephone switchboard; complete mail and rec-
ords service; and custodial services for the five
office buildings. In addition, more than 500,000
units of printing and 100,000 copytron masters
and copies are produced annually. Vehicles dis-
patched by this Section for general laboratory
and field operations, not including those trucks
regularly scheduled for monitoring duties, were
driven in excess of 40,000 miles in 1970.
TOTAL BUDGET BY FISCAL YEAR
(Thousands)
Fiscal
DHEW
AEC
Environmental
Year
Reimbursable
Protection
TOTAL
Agency
1963
643.6
557.6
1,201.2
1964
1,020.7
1,020.3
2,041.0
1965
659.3
1,624.7
2,284.0
1966
593.5
1,786.3
2,379.8
1967
924.2
2,068.3
2,982.5
1968
1,184.5
2,277.2
3,461.7
1969
1,261.0
2,257.0
3,518.0
1970
1,229.0
2,271.0
3,500.0
1971
213.9
2,229.0
1,131.3
3,574.2
TOTAL DOLLAR VALUE OF PROCUREMENT ORDERS IN 1970
80
70
CO
< 60
50
40
30
20
10
TOTALS:
PURCHASE ORDERS
GSA ORDERS
EXCESS RECEIPTS
PETTY CASH
TOTAL"-
$383,000
14,800
105,000
20,200
$523,000
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
-------
5
TYPES OF DEGREES HELD BY SWRHL PERSONNEL
DOCTORAL LEVEL BACHELOR LEVEL
DISCIPLINE NUMBER DISCIPLINE
PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY 1 BACTERIOLOGY 1
BIOPHYSICS 1 CHEMISTRY 20
SOIL MICROBIOLOGY 1 CHEMISTRY-BIOLOGY 1
PHYSICS 1 ZOOLOGY 2
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER 1 BIOLOGY 3
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCES 1 BIOPHYSICS 1
RADIATION PHYSICS 1 PHYSICS 7
ENGINEER 1 ENGINEERING PHYSICS 1
D.V.M. 2 GENERAL SCIENCE 2
M.D. 2 BIOLOGICAL SCIENCE 1
MASTERS LEVEL ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING 5
CHEMISTRY 2 CIVIL ENGINEERING 12
PHYSICS 3 MECHANICAL ENGINEERING 1
RADIATION PHYSICS 2 NUCLEAR ENGINEERING 3
RADIATION BIO-PHYSICS 2 AGRICULTURAL ENGINEERING 2
PHYSIOLOGY 1 CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 1
BIOLOGY 2 MATHEMATICS 2
RADIATION BIOLOGY 4 AGRICULTURE 1
ENGINEERING 2 SOCIOLOGY 1
NUCLEAR ENGINEERING 3 PHARMACY 1
ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 1 HISTORY 1
SANITARY ENGINEERING 3 AGRONOMY 1
ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING 1 ANIMAL HUSBANDRY 1
BASIC SCIENCE 1 SOIL SCIENCE 1
RADIATION SCIENCE 3 BOTANY 1
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE 1 ENGLISH 2
RADIOLOGICAL HEALTH 5 JOURNALISM 1
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 1 ECONOMICS 1
PUBLIC HEALTH 4 FINE ARTS 1
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION 1 EDUCATION 1
MATHEMATICS 1 PHILOSOPHY 1
ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY 1 #
METEOROLOGY 1 -
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 1
-------
6
NUMBER OF PERSONNEL
CIVIL
COMMISSIONED
TfYT Al
SERVICE
OFFICER
1 Ul AL
June 30, 1 962
65
25
90
June 30, 1963
82
28
110
June 30, 1964*
102
40
142
June 30, 1 965 '
141
49
190
June 30, 1 966*
176
64
240
June 30, 1 967*
204
78
282
June 30, 1968'
222
75
297
June 30, 1969
189
74
263
June 30, 1970*
183
64
247
December 31, 1970
166
56
222
"Includes summer employees.
Several methods are employed to ascertain the
reliability of services provided by the SWRHL.
Professional representatives of each of the Lab-
oratory programs function as the Scientific Re-
view Committee which screens all Laboratory
abstracts, papers and technical reports.
The Equipment Committee and other review pan-
els serve indirectly as quality assurance aids to
administration and management. Specific respon-
sibility and authority to ensure the reliability of
data produced at the SWRHL is delegated to a
specialized unit, the Office of Quality Control,
which assists in instrument calibration to guar-
antee equipment reliability, standards prepara-
tion and/or sample cross-checks, and develops
and evaluates new techniques and procedures
for operational programs.
Quality control relationships with National, Fed-
eral and State Laboratories were emphasized in
1970, including participation in the Analytical
Quality Control Service milk, water, food, soil,
and air monthly cross-check programs. The SWRHL
also participated in the World Health Organiza-
tion milk cross-check program and originated a
Plutonium - in-soi I cross-check project which
SWRHL conducts in cooperation with AEC and
other laboratories. With many states assuming
greater responsibilities in the analysis of sam-
ples, a tritium-in-water-and-urine cross-check
program and a bi-monthly pasteurized milk cross-
check program were conducted.
Other quality control projects during 1970 in-
cluded a tritium-in-water duplicate analysis pro-
gram, a monthly inventory listing of SWRHL Li-
quid Radioactive Standards, "well crystal"
counting of all gamma radiation standards re-
ceived at SWRHL, evaluation of the minimum
detectable activity of tritium in water, and assis-
tance in the evaluation of the minimum detect-
able activity of ,37Cs in pasteurized milk.
[ILK ANALYSIS
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7
ANALYTICAL QUALITY CONTROL SERVICE
DEVIATION OF 1970 LABORATORY MILK CROSS CHECK SAMPLE RESULTS FROM THE
AVERAGE OF PARTICIPATING LABORATORY RESULTS ©, OR THE KNOWN VALUE#.
IODINE-131 BARIUM-140
t)
COMTROL LEVEL
WARNING LEVEL
. WARNING LEVEL .
- CONTROL LEVEL
I I I I I I I I I I I I
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
) *
1 « 1
CONTROL LEVEL -
WARNING LEVEL
WARNING LEVEL
CONTROL LEVEL -
1 ' 1 1 1
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
POTASSIUM
"¦©
J L
J I I L
CONTROL LEVEL
WARNING LEVEL
t)
WARNING LEVEL
-«
<
"c
WARNING LEVEL
- CONTROL LEVEL
I I I I I I I
I I I
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
-------
8
During 1970, a data management system was de-
signed for the storage and timely retrieval ot
data. This tape and disk-oriented system, de-
fined in greater detail in subsequent paragraphs
of this report, included compilation of a histori-
cal data file.
Extensive health physics coverage was provided
for many of the research and experimental pro-
jects conducted by the SWRHL and for acceler-
ated activities during the priority handling, pro-
cessing and analysis of environmental samples
following the Baneberry Event which released
radioactivity off-site. Close coordination with
each user facilitated the safe handling and stor-
age of the numerous separate isotope solutions
and sealed sources, 124 shipments of which were
received at the SWRHL during the year. Authori-
zation was obtained for the Laboratory to possess
237Np in any physical or chemical form up to ten
millicuries, two milligrams of plutonium in any
physical or chemical form, eight grams encapsu-
lated as a Pu-Be neutron source, and one gram
each of uranium enriched in the 233U and 235U
isotopes.
During 1970radiation safety personnel physically
inspected and, swiped for leakage all sealed
sources in the SWRHL inventory; leak-tested and
surveyed two Troxler soil density and moisture
gauges to determine the operator's exposure rate
at request of the local and county engineering
departments; and , at the request of the AEC,
coordinated a radiological survey of the ship-
ment of three radioisotope thermoelectric gener-
ators from Seattle to Amchitka. A total of 360
urine samples were collected for tritium analysis
from the NTS farm workers and other SWRHL per-
sonnel who had been working with luminous com-
pounds and tritium-contaminated natural gas.
Further protective surveillance of SWRHL em-
ployees and equipment as well as that of the
general public was pursued through a variety of
industrial safety activities. Industrial hazards
related to the handling of radioactive materials,
particularly if heavy or bulky, were evaluated
in conjunction with radiation safety measures.
A safety report was prepared on the Laboratory's
microwave ovens and an emergency safety guide
for supervisors was prepared covering fire, in-
jury and civil defense. Other non-routine pro-
jects conducted during 1970 included presenta-
ion of a course, "Defensive Driving," and par-
ticipation in a "Dollar-to-Save-a-Life" cam-
paign sponsored by the Nevada Safety Council.
TESTING ONE OF SWRHL'S microwave ovens.
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-------
A major responsibility of the SWRHL is to mea-
sure, document, and report levels of radioactivity
in the environment. This mission is accomplished
by means of a two-part program both parts of
which rely heavily on the collection of samples
of air, milk, water, and other such environmental
media.
One portion of the program is designed to ascer-
tain the exposure of a large segment of the popu-
lation through routine sampling of the environ-
ment at fixed locations. Established sampling
networks measure radiation levels which may
result from nuclear activities whether underground
or excavation projects, rocket engine tests or
other possible sources. From data thus obtained
definitive estimates are made of the dose equiva-
lent from radiation levels attributable to the a-
forementioned sources as well as worldwide or
nationwide fallout.
A second phase of the program is oriented spe-
cifically toward the individual. To assure the
radiation safety of the public living in proximity
to the site of any U. S. nuclear test, this pro-
gram includes the measurement of exposure rates
by mobile monitors, a dosimetry system to mea-
sure individual or area exposures, and the capa-
bility for rapid response to an emergency situa-
tion.
GROUND SURVEILLANCE
During each nuclear event at the NTS or NRDS,
mobile monitors are deployed along the projected
downwind trajectory. Depending on the release
potential and possible magnitude, additional
monitors are held in reserve at the Laboratory.
If a release of activity occurs, the monitors are
directed to strategic locations by means of two-
way radio. When appreciable ground motion is
anticipated off-site, SWRHL personnel are sta-
tioned at mines, structures, communities, or res-
idences to advise people of the event schedule
and anticipated ground motion and, if necessary,
to assist in evacuating specific structures des-
ignated by the AEC.
Each monitor is equipped with portable survey
instruments with a wide range of measurement
flexibility. The monitors also carry portable,
battery-operated air samplers. These samplers,
capable of operating for at least 12 hours, use
a four-inch glass fiber particulate filter and a
31/2" by 1-inch activated charcoal cartridge to
collect various gaseous elements. Portable gam-
ma exposure rate recorders, consisting of a Geig-
er-Mueller survey instrument connected to a strip
chart recorder, can be set up independently to
allow the monitor mobility. Thermoluminescent
dosimeters (TLD's) are left with the portable
recorder to measure the total exposure at the lo-
cation. Monitors also carry ten TLD's each for
distribution to trajectory area residents who are
not wearing dosimeters from the routine network.
Various containers and collection equipment are
provided for milk, water and vegetation samples.
For special events, like Project Rulison, the
monitors set up and operate specialized equip-
ment, such as atmospheric moisture samplers,
and inert gas samplers.
TYPICAL MONITOR'S TRUCK DISPLAYING MONITORING
AND SAMPLING GEAR.
-------
11
Clliiliifls
Mjut r «;
ItMllKIItt
imuu
U S CflVCftNMCMT
WW**CHT V
-------
12
VARIOUS SURVEILLANCE AND SAMPLING LOCATIONS
AIR SURVEILLANCE NETWORK STATIONS
ROUTINE MILK SAMPLING STATIONS
ROUTINE DOSIMETRY STATIONS
ROUTINE WATER SAMPLING STATIONS
-------
13
The established program of routine and event-
related surveillance was continued through 1970
during which period two nuclear events and one
tunnel ventilation released radioactivity which
was detected beyond the boundaries of the Test
Range Complex which comprises the NTS.NRDS,
TTR and the Nellis Air Force Bombing Range.
A considerable amount of surveillance activity
was also undertaken in support of the Project
Rulison drill back and flaring operations in Colo-
rado; Humid Water, a non-nuclear event near
Hattiesburg, Mississippi; and the Apollo 13
launch at the John F. Kennedy Space Center.
AERIAL SURVEILLANCE
Four aircraft are operated by the SWRHL: two
twin-engine Turbo-Beech aircraft with turbo-prop
engines and tricycle landing gear, one twin-en-
gine C-45H, and one single-engine T-34B.
These aircraft provide the SWRHL with an exten-
sive capability in aerial surveillance. Instru-
mented for tracking and sampling of plumes or
clouds of gaseous and particulate contaminants,
both radioactive and non-radioactive, these craft
facilitate prompt access to the areas immediately
adjacent to the site of each nuclear event, thereby
enabling the timely detection of radioactive mate-
rials released to the atmosphere. Airborne mass-
es of radioactive materials, condensation nuclei,
particulates or specific gases can be located,
measured and sampled. Gross and size-fraction-
ated particulate samples and reactive and inert
gas samples are collected on various media for
any desired laboratory analysis.
The primary mission of the Turbo-Beech aircraft
is to provide cloud-tracking and sampling in sup-
port of the AEC's testing program; also, frequent
use of these planes is required in the quick
transportation of personnel and equipment as well
as pickup and delivery of samples for early ana-
lysis and assessment. Similar missions are per-
formed with the C-45H for programs not related
to AEC operations. The T-34B performs a variety
of roles in personnel, equipment and sample
transportation, as backup to other cloud-tracking
aircraft and in aerial photography and orientation.
This latter service was furnished during 1970 to
the Clark County, Nevada, Health Department in
obtaining photographic documentation of air pol-
lution.
INTERIOR OF HANGAR SHOWING THREE OF SWRHL'S AIRCRAFT
tinlCQI
-------
14
TOTAL FLIGHT TIME PER YEAR
900
800
In 700
| 600
lu 500
I
l- 400
§ 300
5 200
100
0
EPA ~
AEC m
ONE OF THE TURBO-BEECH AIRCRAFT
USED AT SWRHL.
Because of the specific nature of the work per-
formed, most of the equipment used in SWRHL
aircraft is not commercially available and must
be developed and fabricated as required. Four
major modifications or additions to equipment
have expanded capabilities for aerial surveil-
lance:
1. Two real-time aerosol monitors were built as
modifications of an original design. The mon-
itors, operating on the principle of forward-
scattering of light, use a 0.6-mw ruby-helium
laser as a light source. Applicable to both
aerial and stationary use, this instrument pro-
vides the capability to measure gross airborne
particle concentrations, to obtain a particle
size distribution and to monitor the concen-
trations of particles of a given size range.
The monitors have been flight tested to de-
monstrate their usefulness in aerial tracking
of plumes of particulate matter, and some size
calibration has been performed to date.
2. An Aerial Acquisition System was designed
and fabricated. Installed in each of the Turbo-
-------
15
Beech aircraft, the systems collect data from
gamma detectors, real-time aerosol monitors,
Doppler radar, and the compass and digital
clock. Multiplexed and fed into paper tape
punches, the data are prepared for computer
processing.
3. A UHF telemetry receiver capability was add-
ed to the digital log ratemeter designed at
the SWRHL. Fabricated as a single circuit
card, this receiver eliminates the need for
carrying the large, heavy, UHF telemetry re-
ceiver used previously. Telemetry signals
from the gamma detectors in parachute drop
packages are received and fed directly into
the digital log ratemeter for recording and
ENGINE MAINTENANCE ON THE TURBO-BEECH.
display of the gamma levels. A signal switch
function on the digital log ratemeter is the
only manual operation, thus eliminating the
complexity of the original UHF telemetry re-
ceiver and increasing the reliability of data
collection.
4. A condensation nuclei detector (CND) was
added to the aerial tracking equipment. This
provides a continuous measure of the airborne
concentration of condensation nuclei making
it possible to locate and measure plumes or
clouds of non-radioactive aerosols. It has
been demonstrated to be sensitive and versa-
tile in tracking aerosols from any source.
SAMPLING GEAR USED IN THE TURBO-BEECH
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16
DOSIMETRY
A network of dosimetry stations is maintained to
monitor gamma radiation. Three EG&G Model
TL-12 thermoluminescent dosimeters are placed
at each of 95 locations surrounding the NTS for
periods of approximately one month. Sixty off-
site residents also wear TLD's. These are
changed monthly to provide a sample of personnel
exposure levels in off-site areas.
The dosimetry network employed film badges as
well as TLD's until the end of 1970. The only
dosimeter currently used, the TL-12, utilizes a
CaF2:Mn phosphor bonded to a helical heater
wire which is encapsulated in a glass tube. The
tube is enclosed in an energy-compensating
shield of lead-tin-aluminum which provides a flat
energy response to gamma radiation between 70
keV and 125 keV. Minimum sensitivity of the
dosimeter is dependent on the magnitude of the
competing background exposure, and can be as
low as 1 mR.
Because it was too heavy and large and would
not remain fastened to clothing securely, the
TL-12 was not popular with off-site residents,
and experiments are now in progress to develop
a more suitable personnel dosimeter. A Harshaw
Model 2000 TLD reader system was procured late
in 1970 for use with the developmental badge.
AIR SAMPLING
Surveillance for radioactive particulates and gas-
es is accomplished through the Air Surveillance
Network (ASN) which, during 1970, consisted of
102 continually-operated stations and an addi-
tional 27 stations activated for specific intervals.
Special networks are established for events con-
ducted at locations remote from the NTS. During
1970 a special sampling station was established
in American Samoa to monitor French tests; small
amounts of fresh fission products were detected
by this station. To supplement ASN data, 32 gam-
ma exposure rate recorders were operated around
the NTS and portable air samplers were used in
the downwind trajectory to support specific activ-
ities at the site.
TLD AND FILM BADGE SHELTER-*-
-------
17
ASN Air samplers draw ten cubic feet per minute
through glass fiber filters which are changed
every 24 hours. With a sensitivity of 0.1 pCi/m3
for an average sample, increased activity levels
can be identified many orders of magnitude less
than the established guides for gross radionu-
clide concentrations in air. During 1970, approx-
imately 36,500 filters and 8500 charcoal car-
tridges, which can be added at any time for the
collection of gaseous materials, were submitted
for analysis for beta radiation and measurement
of gamma-emitting radionuclides.
An increase in background radiation was noted
from February through September 1970 and is at-
tributed tothe annual seasonal increase in world-
wide fallout. Fresh fission products were detect-
ed on special samples taken close to NTS fol-
lowing an event in April and the ventilation of a
tunnel in May. Trace amounts of radioactivity
were detected following a non-U. S. detonation
in October. Ten standby stations were activated
December 18 through 28 and 81 regular ASN sta-
tions were activated for charcoal cartridge oper-
ation during this same period. This special sam-
pling was performed to document an inadvertent
release of radioactive material on December 18
at NTS. The test was codenamed Baneberry and
resulted in fission-product radioactivity being
detected in 14 western states.
In continuing efforts to upgrade the quality and
efficiency of the ASN, sampling equipment was
rotated on a routine basis for maintenance to
allow maximum use with a minimum of downtime.
Routine field calibrations were performed to
assure validity of flow information and minimize
errors in measurements.
MILK SAMPLING
Although milk is one of many means of dietary
intake of radioactivity, it is particularly impor-
tant as a sensitive medium for indicating the
presence of certain airborne radionuclides. Milk
is one of the most universally consumed food-
stuffs and one of the most convenient dietary
constituents to collect, handle and analyze.
During 1970, three different milk surveillance
programs were maintained:
1. Pasteurized Milk Network
The objective of this network, formerly spon-
sored by the PHS and now by the EPA in co-
operation with Federal and state agencies, is
to provide data on current radionuclide con-
centrations and long-term trends. Composite
samples of pasteurized milk are collected in
proportion to consumption in 63 specific met-
ropolitan area milk supplies; those collected
from 23 such areas in the western United
States are analyzed monthly by the SWRHL.
MILK SAMPLES ARE COLLECTED FROM DAIRIES
AND FARMS AROUND THE NTS.
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18
2. Routine Milk Sampling Network
This monthly milk sampling network consists
of about 40 stations in Nevada, Utah and Cal-
ifornia in the vicinity of the NTS. Samples
are taken from both Grade A dairies and family
mi Ik cows.
3. Standby Milk Surveillance Network
This network provides the SWRHL with the
capability to collect milk samples on an un-
scheduled and timely basis from processing
plants in areas of specific interest in states
west of the Mississippi River. Approximately
200 stations participate in this network which
is activated only when the need arises for
additional milk sampling information to sup-
plement data from other networks.
Comprehensive surveys of population and milk
cows are made and periodically updated to facil-
itate the surveillance effort. Information is com-
puterized and a directory is published containing
the number of adults and children, the number of
cows, the type of feed consumed by the cows,
whether milk is marketed and/or Grade A, and
the precise location of the farm or town by both
longitude and latitude and its azimuth and dis-
tance from the control point at the NTS. These
surveys covered all of Nevada and major portions
of California, Arizona, Utah, Idaho, New Mexico
and Colorado. During 1970 the Utah and California
directories were updated.
FOOD SAMPLING
Total diet samples, including milk, representa-
tive of the food intake for one week by a specific
sex and age group are taken on a quarterly basis
from the 29 stations of the Institutional Total
Diet Sampling Network. Analyses of these sam-
ples include the measurement of both naturally
occurring and artificially produced radionuclides
and some stable elements. Such analyses provide
information on radionuclide intake by specific
population groups forstudies of exposure, trends,
and public health significance.
WATER SAMPLING
Water from a variety of sources in California,
Nevada and Utah is collected to determine its
radiological quality. In cooperation with the
Bureau of Water Hygiene, water from a variety
of interstate carrier locations such as depots
and airports is sampled and sent to the SWRHL
for analysis.
All water samples collected during 1970 received
gross alpha and beta counts and a gamma spec-
trum analysis. No fresh fission products were
detected in any sample collected. Of the approx-
imate 25 water samples per month routinely ana-
lyzed for tritium content, the only samples that
showed tritium values above the Minimum Detect-
able Activity (MDA) were samples of Las Vegas
municipal water. This water is from Lake Mead
which characteristically contains tritium concen-
trations greater than the MDA of 400 pCi/ I.
The Tritium Surveillance System was initiated in
July of 1970 to sample tritium content in water
downstream from nuclear facilities as well as in
drinking water. This nationwide network consists
of 73 drinking water and 37 surface water sta-
tions sampled monthly. Routinely, 12 surface
water and 22 drinking water samples are ana-
lyzed quarterly. This network was established
due to the increased interest in tritium in the
environment as a result of the growing nuclear
power industry and its associated nuclear wastes.
SUPPLEMENTAL SAMPLING
Samples of snow, soil and vegetation, particular-
ly grasses on which cows may feed, are collected
in significant numbers within a few weeks before
and after nuclear events and occasionally on a
routine basis to document findings from other
sampling media. Natural gas samples and special
samples are taken as fol low-up to such Plowshare
projects as Rulison and Gasbuggy. A large num-
ber of snow, natural vegetation, and cow feed
samples were collected following the Baneberry
Event in December.
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20
HELICOPTERS WERE USED AT RULISON TO REACH REMOTE AREAS
CRYOGENIC SAMPLING APPARATUS USED FOR RULISON
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21
RULISON
Phase III of the Rulison experimental program
involved the controlled drillback into the cavity
and flow testing of the gas well to determine the
cavity volume and the rate at which natural gas
flowed from the low permeability reservoir. This
drillback toward the cavity was begun in April
1970 and continued through July. Three attempts
at calibration flaring were made in August and,
in October, the well was flared to obtain data to
be used to generate operational procedures for
the high rate flaring and production flaring
phases. Production flaring was carried out in
October, November, and December.
Two SWRHL field personnel were on duty in the
Rulison area through the early stages of drill-
back and,after the drill hole was cased and final
re-entry operations begun, the number of standby
personnel at the site was increased to 17. Moni-
tors remained in the area on a 24-hour standby
until July when re-entry was completed. Forty or
more SWRHL monitoring personnel also served
in Colorado during the calibration and production
flaring operations in the last three months of the
year. Samples of water, milk, natural vegetation,
food crops, animal tissue, soil, cow feed, atmo-
spheric moisture, precipitation and urine were
collected before and after the re-entry and flar-
ing operations. To retain as much continuity as
possible, these samples were collected from the
same sources. All samples were analyzed at the
SWRHL.
Aerial surveillance was provided for all flaring
runs except the one on August 1 and consisted
ol locating and tracking the plume. Atmospheric
moisture and gas samples were collected from
the plume.
HUMID WATER
This event, sponsored by the Advance Research
Projects Agency of the Department of Defense,
was conducted near Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to
evaluate seismic decoupling. Since the test was
conducted in an underground cavity originally
created by a nuclear detonation, SWRHL was
assigned off-site radiological safety responsi-
bilities which were delegated to the Southeastern
Radiological Health Laboratory (SERHL). Seven
SWRHL personnel participated. A premature det-
onation occurred due to lightning; however, no
radiation or toxic gas was detected off-site fol-
lowing the event or during the various phases of
bleed-down of the cavity.
APOLLO 13
Five monitors from SWRHL took part in the Apol-
lo 13 launch of April 5. Radiological safety sup-
port, for which SERHL was primarily responsible,
was provided in the event that the on-board
plutonium power source should lose its physical
integrity as a result of an accident. A number of
mobile air sampling stations were set up and
alpha monitoring capabilities were maintained.
BANEBERRY
During the last two weeks of December, SWRHL
monitors devoted full time and considerable over-
time to the support of the Baneberry Event. Ap-
proximately 30 field personnel participated in
surveillance activities, collecting approximately
1300 environmental samples from December 18
through 31. Sampling continued through January
1971 at selected locations.
Aerial support for the Baneberry Event consisted
of extensive sampling and tracking missions and
numerous off-site sample pickups to facilitate
the prompt processing of the large volume of
samples collected. The Standby Mi Ik Surveillance
Network stations in Utah, Colorado, Wyoming and
Idaho were activated December 20 and 21. Se-
lected stations in California and Nevada were
also activated during this period.
SPECIAL STUDIES
Plutonium Study
Assessment of the plutonium deposition
around the NTS was initiated in 1970. Soil
sampling, the primary method used for mea-
suring long-term deposition, was accomplished
at 22 locations in the area. These samples
were collected so that statistically valid con-
centrations versus depth in soil could be de-
fined for each sampling location. Follow-up
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22
planning includes continued sampling to de-
fine the geographical distribution of test-
related plutonium. In collaboration with other
governmental agencies assessing the effects
of nuclear testing in Nevada, plans also in-
volve investigation of the modes of redistri-
bution through environmental channels.
Natural Gas Surveillance
A sampling program was conducted during the
reopening of the nearly 30 gas wells within
five miles of the Gasbuggy ground zero which
were closed off for nearly two years. To veri-
fy that no radioactivity was entering the gas
wells, samples of natural gas were taken every
three to four weeks and analyzed attheSWRHL
for specific radioisotopes. Only naturally oc-
curring 222Rn was detected. SWRHL aircraft
were used to transport personnel, equipment
and samples during this project.
Nuclear Site Surveillance
Plans were made to utilize the SWRHL air-
craft for aerial surveillance around nuclear
facilities. The project proposes locating and
tracking the effluent plume from the selected
facility by aerial techniques,directing mobile
surveillance personnel to the plume, and per-
forming simultaneous ground and aerial col-
lection of radionuclides in the plant effluent.
Data collected will be used to evaluate the-
oretical diffusion models.
Natural Gas Burner
In conjunction with the natural gas surveil-
lance activities for Project Gasbuggy, a
burner-condenser system was developed for
continuous monitoring for tritium in the natu-
ral gas from nearly 30 wells near ground zero.
The system has a detection capability of 600
pCi/m3 of gas. The project, begun in Septem-
ber, has verified that the tritium activity in
the natural gas from all the wells collectively
is below the detectable level currently obtain-
able at the SWRHL. Monthly gas samples taken
since 1969 have also been below detectable
levels. It is anticipated that this system will
be used on future underground natural gas
stimulation projects, and will be fitted with
ancillary electronics gear for direct analysis
of samples for tritium.
Mobile Road Scanner
This unit, designed and fabricated at the
SWRHL, is a system to determine radioactive
effluent trajectory and deposition where port-
able instruments would require frequent stops
and be less sensitive. Basically a crystal
scintillation system which gives a continuous
record of gamma radiation versus distance tra-
veled on a speedometer-driven strip-chart
recorder, this instrument produced satisfactory
and consistent results in tracking ground dep-
osition paths from NTS events. Evaluations
and modifications are currently underway to
adapt the device for use in other activities
such as locating uranium mill tailings.
Mobile Tritium Monitor
In conjunction with the Rulison re-drill and
flaring operations, a mobile, truck-mounted
system for monitoring airborne tritium and
krypton was devised. The monitor was an in-
ternal gas flow proportional counter capable
of providing a continuous record of concen-
trations. The monitor proved satisfactory in
air surveillance activities.
GAS COMBUSTER APPARATUS
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23
PORTABLE SCINTILLATORS ARE USED TO MEASURE
"POSSIBLE GAMMA RADIATION IN PRIVATE HOMES.
In August 1970 the PHS, now EPA, provided
Colorado with guidelines to use in determining
whether corrective actions are needed. The
levels for action are based on obtaining a valid
integrated exposure which can be extrapolated
to obtain a year's exposure. A radon progeny
integrating sampler unit, which utilizes a filter
to trap particulate material and radon daughters,
and TLD's to measure the daughter product de-
cay were obtained from Colorado State Univer-
sity. Seventy-five of these samplers were used
at approximately 140 locations as part of the
sampling program which consists of a two-week
sample collected six times during the year.
In October and November support was increased
by the assignment of 68 persons, on a rotation
basis, to Grand Junction to conduct the location
screening. At the beginning of November, before
the addition of the field personnel, 2100 loca-
tions had been screened. Portable gamma scin-
tillation instruments were used to detect the
tailings which were found at 1150 of the sites
screened.
Indoor Radon Study
Until 1966, tailings from the Climax uranium mill
in Grand Junction, Colorado, were used by private
firms as construction material. These tailings,
relatively high in 226 Rn content, emanate 222Rn
gas which concentrates in closed structures. The
EPA, by request, supports the Colorado Depart-
ment of Health in measuring the extent of the use
of tailings, in determining whether a health haz-
ard exists, in establishing guidelines for control
of exposures,and in conducting studies aimed at
corrective actions in locations which exceed the
guidelines. During 1970, the SWRHL coordinated
the technical laboratory support and provided the
project officer for the joint project contract ac-
tivities.
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MMGf
-\ r
;v
During 1970, the Office of Dose Assessment and
Systems Analysis was established by combining
the Office of Programs and Plans with the Whole-
Body Counter Section of the Radiation Medicine
Program to provide a focal point within the SWRHL
for evaluating the impact of nuclear testing and
other radiological activities on the environment
and the health and safety of the general public.
An analysis was made of the public health im-
plications of the expected radioactivity releases
associated with Project Rulison and published
as SWRHL-96, "Public Health Evaluation, Pro-
ject Rulison (Production Testing)." Reviews of
the Environmental Statements for Underground
Nuclear Testing at NTS for FY-71 and for Project
Cannikin were provided for the Secretary, Health,
Education and Welfare. These Environmental
Statements were prepared by the AEC in compli-
ance with the requirements of the Environmental
Policy Act.
WHOLE-BODY COUNTER
In addition to calculations of exposures to people
based on environmental sampling and monitoring,
whole-body counting and scanning facilities are
maintained at the SWRHL to identify and measure
radioactive materials deposited in the person by
inhalation or ingestion and to locate concentra-
tions of radionuclides in specific areas of the
body. The system is capable of determining the
identity, quantity, and spatial distribution of
body burdens of gamma-emitting radionuclides.
The physical installation consists of two adja-
cent chambers each nine feet by nine feet by
fourteen feet, with walls, floors, and ceilings of
steel five inches thick for shielding of the de-
tectors. For qualitative identification as well as
quantitation of body radioactivity, the detector
used is a sodium iodide crystal eleven inches in
diameter and four inches thick, coupled, through
seven photomultiplier tubes, to a pulse-height
analysis system. For determination of spatial
distribution of body radioactivity, a two-dimen-
sional scan is performed with a smaller detector
also coupled to the pulse-height analysis system.
INTERIOR OF WHOLE-BODY COUNTER
From the data obtained, the resulting dose and
its potential effects on the individual can be cal-
culated. Since the whole-body counter does not
provide an absolute measurement of the amount
of radioactivity in the person, pseudohumans are
used to calibrate the equipment. Known amounts
of radioactivity are placed in the phantom, which
is designed to simulate actual persons in size
and form. From comparisons made between the
counts obtained from the person and the counts
obtained from the phantom, relatively accurate
measurements of radioactivity in the person can
be determined.
A program was initiated in 1970 whereby a group
of forty families living around the periphery of
the NTS, travel to the SWRHL periodically for
whole-body counting. The data collected will
yield baseline information on ,37Cs burdens,and
any trends in levels should be apparent after
several years. In addition, in the event of a re-
lease of radioactive material from the NTS, these
groups of residents will be available for mea-
surements to determine possible body burdens of
isotopes in the off-site area.
Seven SWRHL employees received whole-body
radiation exposures during 1970. These were in
connection with isotope studies conducted at this
laboratory. The highest individual exposures were
365 mrad beta and 360 mrem gamma. No signifi-
cant internal exposures were received by SWRHL
personnel.
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25
MEDICAL LIAISON OFFICER NETWORK
The purpose of the Medical Liaison Officer Net-
work (MLON) is to investigate radiation injuries
which are claimed to be the result of nuclear
testing activities conducted by the AEC. Estab-
lished in 1956, the MLON is funded by the AEC
and administered by the EPA through SWRHL.
With the expansion of nuclear testing from the
Nevada Test Site to Supplemental Test Sites in
Nevada and Alaska and locations of Plowshare
activities in other states, the MLON increased
from its original thirteen physicians to its cur-
rent membership which includes representatives
from every state, the District of Columbia, and
Puerto Rico. MLON membership today includes
physicians of many specialty fields and from all
areas of the medical community. Physicians are
nominated for membership to MLON by the State
Health Officers in cooperation with the Regional
Representatives of the Environmental Protection
Agency. Credentials are reviewed and appoint-
ments made by the SWRHL. MLON members are
volunteer physicians and receive no remuneration
for their services.
During medical investigations, MLON physicians
attempt to make a definitive diagnosis rather than
simply dismiss a problem if not related to nuclear
testing. MLON physicians are skilled in assess-
ing all types of radiation injury and are able to
consider the differential diagnoses involved.
Normally, an annual training conference is held
in Las Vegas in April. The basic aspects of ra-
diobiology and radiation injury are reviewed, new
concepts in the area of radiation effects are dis-
cussed, and special features of recent AEC nu-
clear testing activities which could lead to
claims of radiation injury are evaluated.
An MLON bulletin is published two to four times
per year, depending on material available. Mate-
rial includes current MLON information, review
articles and other teaching-oriented presentations.
PACIFIC OPERATIONS
A special project assigned to SWRHL personnel
by the AEC entailed the follow-up surveillance
of Bikini Atoll. An extensive monitoring program,
with particular emphasis on air sampling, was
conducted to evaluate the potential resuspension
of residual plutonium contamination from the soil.
Data indicated that despite high levels of pluto-
nium in the soil, the concentration in air was
within a factor of 10 of worldwide background.
SWRHL'S WHOLE-BODY COUNTER
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26
ALASKA SURVEILLANCE PROGRAM
The program to measure ,37Cs burdens in Eski-
mos was continued. Three surveil lance trips were
made to Alaska during 1970 to the villages of
Noatak and Kiana to gain supplemental informa-
tion on the seasonal variation in '37Cs burdens.
During the late spring survey, over 400 persons
in five villages were whole-body counted. Data
collected agreed with the results of surveys con-
ducted in the spring of 1968, with the villages of
Noorvikand Selawikshowing the highest burdens.
Electric power has since been introduced into
Kiana and it is expected that this will influence
future seasonal patterns since the people living
there will now be able to preserve food by refrig-
eration.
ESKIMO COUNTING RESULTS
60
1 50
x
LU
§ 40
LU
o 30
Q
Z
O 20
t
<
< 10
DC
0
1967 m
1968 ~
1970 E3
FEMALES 45 - 65kg
Q
LU
=)
O
o
h-
o
NOORVIK SELAWIK SHISHMAREF NOATAK
KIANA
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27
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The SWRHL maintains a large and we 11-equipped
training facility staffed by six full-time instruct-
ors and provides short-term courses in many
phases of radiological health sciences.
In coordination and cooperation with NERHL,
SERHL, and Rockville, Maryland, Training Sec-
tions, the SWRHL presented 23 courses totaling
149 days during 1970. This includes 106 days of
training in courses at Las Vegas and 43 days
presented by request in field locations in Cali-
fornia, Canada, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas
and Washington. Offered tuition - free, these
courses are open to all persons involved in acti-
vities of a radiological health nature.
SWRHL training services are intended to provide
basic or advanced instruction for persons involved
in any activity associated with the handling and
use of radioactive materials, to interpret and de-
fine the protective guidelines and other regula-
tions controlling usage, hand I ing and disposal of
these materials, and to serve as a medium for
the dissemination of current findings and devel-
opments in radiological applications and research.
Attendant responsibilities include the continual
STUDENT-DAYS AND DAYS OF
TRAINING vs TIME
s
CO
>-
3
a
development of SWRHL employee skills, know-
ledge, and technical competence by conducting
appropriate courses, seminars and professional
meetings. The SWRHL also participates in recip-
rocating programs with the University of Nevada,
Las Vegas. Three members of the Laboratory
staff were adjunct professors at UNLV during
1970.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
OF STUDENTS
YEARS OF
EXPERIENCE
Less than 1
NUMBER OF
STUDENTS
46
1-5
122
6-10
124
11-15
87
16-20
53
Greater than 20
44
TOTAL 476
COURSES AND STUDENTS
vs TIME
! 12
to !¦
8
6
I
1965
1067 1968
I
1970
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29
COURSES PRESENTED DURING 1970
LENGTH OF NUMBER
COURSE TITLE COURSE OF
IN DAYS PRESENTATIONS
1. Introduction to Radiological Health. . . 3 1
2. Basic Radiological Health 10 4
3. Fundamentals of Non-Ionizing
Radiation Protection 5 4
4. Radionuclide Analysis by Gamma
Spectroscopy 10 1
5. Medical X-Ray Protection 10 2
6. Fundamentals of Medical X-Ray
Protection 5 1
7. X-Ray Exposure Study - 70 3 1
8. Radiological Health for X-Ray
Technologists 5 2
9. Radiological Health for X-Ray
Teachers 5 2
10. Occupational Radiation Protection ... 10 1
11. Accelerator Radiation Protection ... 5 1
12. Laser Instrumentation and
Survey Techniques 5 1
13. Management of Radiation Accidents . . 5 1
14. Defensive Driving 1 2
15. Industrial Radiation Monitoring .... 3 1
TOTALS 25
TOTAL
NUMBER
OF DAYS
3
40
20
10
20
5
3
10
10
10
5
5
5
2
3
151
NUMBER
OF
STUDENTS
13
103
71
18
29
20
24
45
35
20
16
18
31
33
33
509
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30
One new course, "Laser Instrumentation and
Survey Techniques," was prepared and intro-
duced in 1970. This was designed as an advanced
course in the nonionizing radiation field, specif-
ically dealing with the problems associated with
instrumentation for and safety survey techniques
of laser installations.
At the request of the Canadian Society of X-ray
Technologists, a one-week course,"Radiological
Health for X-ray Technologists," was presented
in Vancouver, British Columbia. Thirty-five tech-
nologists from throughout Canada attended. A
three-hour workshop entitled, "Electromagnetic
Spectrum," on x ray, laser and microwave radia-
tion, its uses and potential hazards, was con-
ducted for the Annual Educational Conference of
the National Environmental Health Association.
About 150 persons participated in the various
phases of the workshop. Assistance was also
given the Los Angeles, Cal ifornia, County Health
Department in the development of a course for
microwave oven repairmen. Lectures were pre-
sented in this course by staff members of both
Technical Training and Electronic Products Pro-
grams.
ATTENDEES BY STATE
ALASKA 2
HAWAII 1
CANADA 35
WASH,, DC 2
CONT'L US 436
TOTAL. 476
EDUCATION LEVEL OF ATTENDEES
JOB CATEGORIES OF ATTENDEES
CATEGORY NUMBER
ADMINISTRATOR g
BIOLOGIST 7
CHEMIST 14
ENGINEER 46
GEOLOGIST 3
HEALTH EDUCATOR 34
INDUSTRIAL HYGIENIST 20
MICROBIOLOGIST 2
NURSE 2
PHARMACIST 1
PHYSICIAN 15
PHYSICIST (Physicist,
Health Physics, Radiation Physics,
Health Physics Technicians) . . . .113
SANITARIAN 32
TECHNICIAN (X-Ray, Nuclear
Medicine, Laboratory) 114
VETERINARIAN 1
OTHER (Fireman, Policeman,
Warehouseman, etc.) . .
TOTAL
93
476
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31
On-the-job or bench training in the various spe-
cialties available at the SWRHL was provided.
Arrangements for such training are made by the
Laboratory with the requesting organization and
a coordinated program is then developed. During
1970, eleven persons, six from state radiological
health programs and five from Public Health Ser-
vice laboratories received bench training in radio-
chemical techniques or laser/microwave radia-
tion. The length of time for such training varies
as required, with emphasis on the practical ap-
plication of knowledge in an actual work situa-
tion.
Employee development programs involved staff
participation in a wide range of subjects, from
improvement of reading and writing skills in
courses of a few hours to field trips to gather
firsthand information regarding developments in
industry and education. During 1970, 158 atten-
dees from SWRHL participated in 35 different
short-term courses of this nature and 15 persons
participated in nine meetings of various national
societies or associations. In addition to short-
term training, one employee was approved for
full-time post-master's degree training.
The Training staff frequently participates in
civic programs including the Clark County, Ne-
vada, School District Program of Social Enrich-
ment (POSE). Five lecture demonstrations of the
different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum
were presented for approximately 60 sixth grade
students in association with this cultural pro-
gram begun in 1969 to bring together children of
Las Vegas schools in a wide range of social and
learning activities.
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The Electronic Products Program plans, con-
ducts and coordinates research into the effects,
measurement and control of electronic products
radiation for the development and administration
of performance standards to control the emission
of electronic product radiations. This program,
which was not transferred to the EPA and will
remain with the PHS, serves as the Bureau of
Radiological Health's resource for the technical
development and implementation of laser perfor-
mance standards. The program includes studies
in the following areas:
(1) Development of practical procedures for
the detection and measurement of elec-
tronic product radiation.
(2) Evaluation of emissions of and conditions
of exposure to electronic product radia-
tion.
(3) Testing and evaluation of the effective-
ness of procedures and techniques for
minimizing exposure to electronic product
radiation.
(4) Evaluation of biological injury and ef-
fects of exposure to electronic product
radiation.
This past year, a careful review of all available
biological effects data and governmental and non-
governmental standards and recommendations for
laser radiation was performed. The quality of data
available on biological effects of laser radiation,
however, is a major problem. Investigators are
inconsistent in their reporting of complete expo-
sure conditions. In addition, and more important,
there is need for research and data on functional
effects of laser radiation at levels below those
necessary to produce ophthalmoscopical ly visible
retinal lesions.
The SWRHL allocated space for construction of
a laser laboratory in 1970 which was based on
plans and specifications drawn up by SWRHL
personnel. A safety interlock system was in-
stalled to prevent firing of the laser while per-
sonnel are in the laboratory area. The system
also includes television remote viewing capabil-
ity, a calorimetry system, and spectroradiometer
system. Equipment was procured and techniques
developed for the measurement of various param-
eters of laser devices.
A draft of model state regulations for laser use
was drawn up in response to a request from the
BRH Office of Regional Operations. In conjunc-
tion with the Compliance Branch, DEP, technical
support was provided for evaluation of reports
received under Subpart H from laser manufactur-
ers. A form for manufacturers' replies and a com-
puter program to analyze data received were de-
veloped.
Other projects for 1970 included:
# the evaluation of a laser cane with respect
to the potential hazard of three gallium-
arsenide lasers used in the cane as sen-
sory devices.
# construction of lasers from commercially
available components. A 50-mW helium-
neon and a liquid dye laser were completed
and will be evaluated in terms of achiev-
able output and possible hazards. They
will then be used as sources for experi-
ments.
an environmental survey of microwave
power levels in the Las Vegas metropoli-
tan area. Equipment was installed and cal-
ibrated in a mobile trailer and measure-
ments were taken at over 60 points in the
city.
measurements of far-field emissions from
microwave ovens and construction of a
three-dimensional model of the emission
field. A study of the radiation output of
educational microwave devices was com-
pleted.
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33
Electronics Products Program personnel present-
ed papers at the meetings of the American Assoc-
iation of Physics Teachers and Health Physics
Society, American Public Health Association,
the Second Annual Conference on Radiation Con-
trol and the Gordon Conference. A safety-oriented
laser manual, "Laser Fundamentals and Experi-
ments," BRH/SWRHL 70-1, was published and
over 5,000 copies distributed.
Orientation and on-the-job training of state and
federal personnel in laser hazard evaluation mea-
surements and use and application of laser stand-
ards as well as orientation of personnel conduct-
ing microwave oven surveys constituted much of
the Electronic Products Program training activi-
ties. Assistance was also provided to other
groups such as the Training Institute, BRH, the
U. S. Army and the Laser Industry Association
in the presentation of courses in non-ionizing
radiation, laser hazards and laser safety train-
ing.
EVALUATING LIGHT SENSORS USED IN MEASURING
THE INTENSITY OF LASER LIGHT.
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ram
Jdj
The SWRHL conducts extensive field and labor-
atory experimental studies into the ecology of
specific radionuclides and the methods and ef-
fectiveness of their transport to man through var-
ious media.
A major portion of SWRHL research effort during
1970 was devoted to evaluating the transfer of
radionuclides through the fallout-air-forage-cow-
milk-man chain. Recognizing the importance of
milk as a major means of transfer of radionu-
clides to man, a dairy farm is maintained at the
Nevada Test Site and is used for radioisotope
ingestion and inhalation studies. Heretofore,
principally radioiodine was studied under both
controlled and field conditions but, as nuclear
explosives and their applications change, other
radionuclides are gaining emphasis.
Another area of research is covered by the Ani-
mal Investigation Program. Domestic and game
animal samples are regularly collected and ana-
lyzed for a variety of radionuclides. The domes-
tic animals are generally selected from the beef
herd maintained on the NTS, but to evaluate pos-
sible effects of Plowshare events, such as Ruli-
son, background and post-event samples are col-
lected in the area where the experiment is held.
These findings can be used to predict effects on
the human population of the same geographical
region.
The results of these studies are supplemented
by field and laboratory investigations in soil,
plant and other media. As in dairy farm studies,
past efforts were concentrated on selected radio-
nuclides such as iodine and tungsten, and cur-
AERIAL VIEW OF EXPERIMENTAL FARM AT NTS.
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35
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36
rent interest is being extended to other radionu-
clides, particularly tritium and plutonium. To
complete the ecological cycle, aerosol studies
are conducted to simulate the fallout particulates
and study any possible hazards presented by
their size and shape and chemical and physical
form.
Ecological studies ard highly dependent on de-
velopment of precise analytical methods. The
analytical techniques used are continuously
evaluated and, as new requirements arise, new
procedures are developed for their fulfillment.
Similarly, biometric support and instrument de-
velopment are regarded as necessary to supple-
ment the research efforts.
The specific examples discussed below are typi-
cal of the research conducted at the SWRHL.
ANIMAL STUDIES
In-depth investigations are pursued in the area
of biological effects caused by both ionizing and
non-ionizing radiations. One such project uses
rats to determine if 210Po, a radioactive element
found in tobacco, may be a factor in the forma-
tion of lung cancer. The rats are exposed daily
to cigarette smoke containing added 210Po. Most
of the 210 Po in cigarette smoke is cleared from
the rat lung relatively soon after a single expo-
sure; however, continued daily exposures result
in an equilibrium concentration of polonium in
the lung.
Another project uses Syrian hamsters as experi-
mental animals to study the potential health haz-
ard to humans associated with the inhalation of
highly radioactive particles, such as those emit-
ted in the effluent from reactors developed for
nuclear rocket engines. The primary objective of
this study is to obtain the biological data neces-
sary to develop reliable safety standards. The
hamsters are divided into seven groups, three
groups containing pulmonary-deposited radioac-
tive particles, one containing inert particles, and
three serving as various control groups. In con-
junction with serial sacrifice to follow the de-
velopment of the expected primary lung tumor,
gamma spectroscopy and radioautography are
RATS ARE EXPOSED DAILY TO CIGARETTE SMOKE
A HAMSTER IS PREPARED FOR INJECTION OF A
RADIOACTIVE PARTICLE INTO THE LUNG.
-------
37
used to follow the animals' progress. Gross
lesions, which appear to be tumors, have been
found in the high dose group, but pathological
evaluation is not yet complete. A lung tumor has
been diagnosed, histologically, in the middle
dose group.
In addition to the bio-effects studies, bio-kinetics
investigations are conducted at SWRHL facilities
at the NTS. Studies defining critical metabolic
pathways in animals of ingested radionuclides
which could appear in the environment following
nuclear detonations provide valuable data for
use in hazard evaluation. Such studies conduct-
ed with dairy cows are of particular importance.
Dairy products contribute a significant portion
of the total diet, particularly for infants and
children, and may be the major route of radionu-
clide exposure. Hence, metabolism studies in
cows have the added feature of supplying the
constants for models to predict the extent of
man's probable exposure as well as giving indi-
cations of specific biological availabilities and
potential sites of tissue concentrations. To ob-
tain the needed data for hazard assessment the
program includes both single and multiple inges-
tion exposures by dairy cows for each of the nu-
clides studied. Single ingestion studies using
i87w, 202TI, and 203Pb were completed last year
and continued this year with other radioisotopes
of interest.
Tissue distribution studies indicate the princi-
pal sites of major deposition for the radionu-
clides to be as follows:
Rb liver >muscle )bone >lung >spleen
Tl kidney >lung >muscle >bone
W bone >pelt >liver > muscle
Hg kidney >liver >spleen
Be liver >kidney >bone
COWS ARE KEPT IN SEPARATE STALLS DURING
METABOLISM STUDIES.
MILK SECRETION FOR A VARIETY OF RADIOISOTOPES
(Average for 4 cows)
CHEMICAL FORM
ADMINISTERED
86RbCI
202TlNO3
Na2187w04
59FeCI 3
203HgCI3
7BeCI2
Naj181W04
ROUTE OF
ADMINISTRATION
single oral
multi-oral
single i. v.
single oral
single oral
single oral
multi-oral
TIME TO PEAK
IN MILK
(Hours)
17
155
<6
18
24
29
59
'B IN
MILK
(Hours)
44
<150
19
TOTAL % OF
ADMINISTERED
DOSE SECRETED
IN MILK
15.1
2.5
2.0
0.002
0.012
0.0016
-------
38
ECOLOGICAL STUDIES
Preliminary ecological studies were conducted
during 1970 with concentrated efforts on various
trophic levels. Such studies included the follow-
ing:
Rumen fistulated cattle are allowed to graze
freely in selected locations for short periods of
time. The rumen contents are then removed through
the fistula and examined for botanical content.
As shown in the accompanying graph, the species
of plants preferred by cattle in that area were
identified.
The rate of exchange between tritium and hydro-
gen in the water of crystallization of several
clays was tested. Kaolinite, montmorillonite and
illite clays were incubated for up to six months
with water containing 750 pCi/ml of HTO. Even
after six months, only 2.5 percent of the hydro-
gen in the water of crystallization had exchanged
with the HTO. These studies will be extended
to other types of soil.
MINIATURE SWINE (BARELY DISCERNIBLE THROUGH
THE PLASTIC TENT) ARE BEING EXPOSED TO AN
AVERAGE TRITIUM (HTO) CONCENTRATION
OF 30 nCi/l OF AIR.
An artificial rumen device is used to measure
the in vitro solubility of various chemical com-
pounds in rumen contents. Those compounds
which are less soluble in vitro are also secreted
to a smaller extent in milk in vivo. This proced-
ure permits rapid estimation of transfer to milk
since one compound can be tested in a metabo-
lism study and other chemical forms of the same
element can then be tested in the artificial rumen.
The possible hazard to man from tritium in natu-
ral gas produced by nuclear stimulation was in-
vestigated using miniature swine. The animals
were housed in a trailer which was heated with
tritiated methane and were fed a human diet
cooked with this gas. The tritium concentration
in the gas used was about 1000 times that ex-
pected in Rulison gas. The specific activity of
tritium in the body water of swine at equilibrium
corresponded to 0.006 of the specific activity of
tritium in the gas.
A similar study was done with tritium-activated
luminous compounds. The swine were enclosed
in a tent in which a vial of the compound was
broken. The results, applied to man, suggest that
rupture of a one-Curie source in similar circum-
stances would yield a maximum dose commitment
of 230 mrem.
-------
FOOD HABITS OF FISTULATED STEERS ON THE NTS
BROWSE
;
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
1969
-------
40
-------
41
The possibility of an isotope effect for tritium
was investigated by use of pea plants grown in
a tritiated hydroponic medium. The concentration
of tritium in water obtained by vacuum drying the
plant material was compared with the concentra-
tion in water obtained from combustion of the
dried material. No isotope effect was observed
as the tritium concentration in both water frac-
tions was similar.
The movement of tritium through desert soil at
the NTS was also studied. Previous experience
has shown that various materials leach different-
ly through disturbed and undisturbed (jn situ)
soils. Plots of bare soil and soil with natural
vegetation were spiked with tritium and irrigated
various times thereafter. Samples of vegetation
and of transpired water were collected to evalu-
ate soil losses by irrigation.
Since radiotungsten is measurable in plants for
many months after contamination, the uptake of
181 w was studied by use of plants grown by hy-
droponics. Under these conditions, following
three months of growth, about 2 percent of the
total activity was in the aerial portions and 98
percent was in the roots. The experiment is being
repeated in natural soils as soil microbacteria
and other factors may affect the uptake. Soil in
areas contaminated with 181W by Project Schoon-
er are also under study.
The feasibi lity of ecological studies in the vicin-
ity of the NTS was investigated in a small pilot
study. Several plots were delineated on and off
the NTS for this study. The soils were classified
and sampled. The animal population was estab-
lished by mark-release-recapture methods and
the food habits of each animal were determined.
Finally, the plant population, in terms of domi-
nant and subdominant species, was enumerated
and sampled. The study indicated that ecological
experiments could be performed successfully
under our experimental conditions.
TOMATOES AND PEPPERS ARE GROWN IN AN
ENVIRONMENTAL CHAMBER.
SOIL SPIKED WITH TRITIUM IS STUDIED IN THE
-4- SWHRL GREENHOUSE.
-------
42
FARM STUDIES
During 1970, a five-year study of the NTS beef
herd, done in cooperation with the University of
Nevada, was completed. Each month, fistulated
steers were used to sample the beef range in
Area 18, NTS. The samples collected from the
rumen were analyzed for botanical and radionu-
clide content. Detectable levels of 95 Zr, 106Ru,
140Ba, and 144Ce were usually found in the late
spring and early summer. Detectable amounts of
95Zr and 106Ru usually persisted into fall. These
detectable isotopes in the ingesta were only
rarely detectable in tissue samples from the beef
herd. Grass composed 80 percent or more of the
diet for 50 percent of the time. Browse was a
major component of the diet in November and
December, and forbes (e.g. Russian thistle) con-
stituted a major portion in June and July.
Domestic and wildlife tissue samples were col-
lected for tritium and 14C analyses prior to and
following flaring operations at the Rulison site.
Collections are continuing in an effort to docu-
ment the effect of these operations on this por-
tion of the human food chain.
The 90 Sr content of bones from Bighorn sheep
and beef cattle continued the decline which
started in 1964.
APPLIED RADIATION SAFETY
Tritium-activated luminous compounds are being
used extensively in consumer products and some
have specific activities as high as 1.2 Ci/g.The
possible hazard from tritium release by many of
these compounds is being evaluated in the lab-
oratory. These studies include tritium release
from samples painted with these compounds and
from wrist watches with luminous dials.
COMPARISON OF 90Sr IN BONES OF DEER, CATTLE AND BIGHORN SHEEP
DEER ¦
BEEF ~
BIGHORN SHEEP g
20
O)
(/)
o
°1 15
O
a
X
CO
<
UJ
z
o
CO
10
0
1964
1965
1966
1967
1968 1969
1970
-------
43
Two possible hazards produced by the operation
of certain neutron generators are also under
study. One possible hazard is the release of
tritium from the targets used to generate neutrons
when bombarded by deuterium ions. The other
possible hazard is from neutron activation of the
structures and materials surrounding the neutron
generator.
METHODS DEVELOPMENT
The modification and development of new proce-
dures is a continuing process. The following
paragraphs summarize progress in this area:
## A liquid scintillation technique has been
developed to measure 55 Fe in environmental sam-
ples. This technique combines high sensitivity
with reproducibility.
## Radioiodine air sampling is difficult be-
cause of the many different chemical forms which
may be present, A sensitive method, used to test
the efficiency of various air sampling configura-
tions, is to use thyroid uptake as an index of ef-
ficiency. Groups of rats are exposed to filtered
and unfiltered air, containing various forms of
1311, and the activity in the pooled thyroids de-
termined. The effect of changing the components
of the filtering system and of changing various
atmospheric parameters can be readily assessed.
# A method of preparing samples for deter-
mination of181W and 185W was developed but has
not yet been tested on biological or environ-
mental samples.
## A portable field sampling device was de-
veloped for determination of 222Rn in well water
or other water sources. The device permits col-
lection of sample, de-emanation, and counting
without exposure of the sample to the atmosphere.
BIOPHYSICAL AIR SAMPLING SYSTEM
DRY BULB
THERMOMETER
_
"V.
v
WATER SUPPLY
(RUBBER BULB)
MIXING . .
CHAMBER
CONTAMINATED V,
AIR INLET
A
DILUTION
AIR INLET
WET BULB
THERMOMETER
AIR FLOW
ADJUSTIN0 VALVE I
THREE WAY
STOPCOCK
Jo
FILTER SYSTEM
HOLDER
TO HIGH EFFICIENCY
FILTERS AND
CHARCOAL FILTERS
AND
EXHAUST PUMP
UNFILTERED AIR
RAT CHAMBER
DIAL MANOMETER
FILTERED AIR
RAT CHAMBER
-------
Ml [MiMMl
A large portion of SWRHL is devoted to support
in the form of technical services to the operating
programs. These services, which are also pro-
vided to states and other federal agencies in the
west, include chemical analysis, counting facili-
ties, data analysis, sample control, computer and
programming operations,electronic services, and
facility engineering.
ANALYTICAL OPERATIONS
The chemistry laboratories provide continuing
analytical support to the station programs. This
support includes routine analyses for samples
collected through on-going networks, both AEC
and PHS,as well as response during accelerated
sampling periods in connection with nuclear test-
ing activities.
Over 7700 separate chemical analyses were per-
formed by the section in 1970. This does not in-
clude standards or special method-development
samples.
Samples submitted for instrumental analysis are
investigated by x-ray spectrochemical, x-ray
diffraction, electron microprobe, and atomic ab-
sorption, flame emission spectrophotometer tech-
niques. Wet chemical analysis is also performed
depending on the information requested.
Significant achievements during 1970 included
both increased capability and method develop-
ment for the measurement of radionuclides which
occur in the gaseous form. The expanded capa-
bility related to increase of gas analysis equip-
ment and also improvement of the existing equip-
1 Yrt Ul- OAMfLt AMNHLT Z.CU
PRINCIPAL
ANALYSES
PF &
CC**
MILK
FOOD
WATER
ANIMAL
TISSUE
GAS &
AIR
VEG. &B|0ASSAV PRECIP.
SQ|L BIOASSAY TUB£
MISC.
TOTAL
Radio-
strontium
765
102
11
72
14
1
965
Gross alpha
1430
1430
2^6Ra by
emanation
2
112
4
118
"2Rn
155
155
Radio-argon ^ 8
Radio-
krypton
150
150
Radio-xenon
76
76
Tritium
212
57
1164
65
482
1402 723
5
4110
1
3
2
113
56
174
Uranium
11
2
13
Plutonium
17
42
69
132
260
Rad io-
tungsten
8
8
Radiochemical
separation
1
2
Stable
calcium
71
19
90
Stable
strontium
60
30
90
Selenium
32
32
X-ray scans
4
25
29
Gamma
15694
2061
177
1634
273
11
1569 800 5
390
23614
* PF Prefi Iter
CC Charcoal cartridge
-------
merit. At the present time the gas lab consists of
three multipurpose gas analysis rigs, a natural
gas combustion analysis apparatus, and radon
gas analysis systems.
TOTAL SAMPLES PROCESSED 1970
AEC
PHS
TOTAL
Pref ilter
36,243
53
36,296
Charcoal Cartridge
9,823
9
9,832
Milk
1,128
1,044
2,172
Water
1,631
357
1,988
Soi I
393
80
473
Vegetation
475
210
685
Gas
573
99
672
Others
1,009
735
1,744
51,275
2,587
53,862
Methods were developed in which atmospheric
argon and krypton are separated from an air sam-
ple, dissolved in liquid scintillation cocktail,
and counted in a liquid scintillation counter.
Similar methods were developed for natural gas
except that stable argon and krypton carriers are
added. The methods have been used successfully
on Project Rulison and Nevada Test Site samples.
The minimum detectable concentrations in air are:
85Kr, 3 pCi/m3; 37A, 2 x 104 pCi/m3;
39A, 1 x 104 pCi/m3.
The minimum detectable concentrations in natu-
ral gas are:
85 Kr, 10 pC i/ I; 37A, 100 pCi/ I; and
39A, 50 pCi/l.
A significant accomplishment in 1970 was the
development of a technique for analyzing krypton
carrier-free in atmospheric samples. This per-
mits the measurement of ambient levels of 85Kr
by separating the atmospheric krypton from a
cubic meter of air,dissolving the separated kryp-
ton in liquid scintillation cocktail and counting
on a liquid scintillation spectrometer. The mini-
mum detectable concentration is 3 pCi/m3.
SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING GAS SAMPLES
45
-------
46
Similar methodology was developed for radio-
xenon in air, the only difference being that stable
xenon carrier is added. The minimum detectable
concentration is 3 pCi/m3.
The liquid scintillation counting capability was
expanded by the addition of three new liquid
scintillation counters. Two manifold vacuum
systems were constructed for the removal of
moisture from environmental samples. One sys-
tem is designed for removal of moisture from
molecular sieves by vacuum distillation from
specially designed heaters using inert carrier
sweep gas. The second system is designed for
both molecular sieve heaters and vacuum desic-
cators for removing moisture from soil and vege-
tation by vacuum distillation. The manifolds per-
mit the analysis of multiple samples simultane-
ously. A combustion technique was devised for
the collection of carbon dioxide in determining
14c in samples such as vegetation and food. A
double tube furnace utilizing oxygen passing
through sample and copper wire is used for com-
bustion and the carbon dioxide is collected by
bubbling through sodium hydroxide solution. The
14C is collected by precipitation of barium car-
bonate, suspended in a thixotropic gel and count-
ed in a liquid scintillation counter. Carbon di-
oxide from molecular sieves is also collected by
bubbling through sodium hydroxide and prepared
for counting in a similar fashion. The minimum
detectable concentration is 17 pCi/g of carbon,
which is equivalent to 3 pCi/m3 of air..
The plutonium analysis capability was expanded
by the acquisition of four solid state alpha de-
tectors and associated electronics to build four
alpha spectrometer systems.
NUMBER OF GROSS BETA
ANALYSES PERFORMED IN 1970
36,028
EPA ¦
AEC ~
1,447
1,002
PREFILTER WATER MILK
The plutonium methodology was further developed
to include the determination of plutonium in air
filters and soil as well as sea water, natural
water, urine, and biological materials. The ana-
lytical procedure and the electroplating procedure
were developed to apply to the special samples
which SWRHL receives such as soil from Bikini
Atoll and the Nevada Test Site environs, animal
tissue, and air filters, soil and water from the
state of Colorado during their Rocky Flats Dow
Chemical Company investigation. The minimum
detectable activity is 20fCi per sample.
A total of 23,614 samples were analyzed for
gamma emitting radionuclides and 991 calibration
standards were gamma counted utilizing 4- by 4-
inch Nal (Tl) crystals and gamma spectrometers.
Alpha and beta counts made on end window gas
flow proportional counters totaled 97,329.
A 4096 channel analyzer system and Ge (Li)
detector were purchased. Thirty-eight calibration
standards were gamma counted, linearity checks
were made and 23 samples have been analyzed
on this equipment.
LIQUID SCINTILLATION COUNTING SYSTEMS
-------
47
COMPUTER OPERATIONS
In September 1970 SWRHL released its IBM 1130
computer and began utilizing the AEC central
computer complex via a satellite terminal. The
central computer consists of a CDC 6400 which,
with 65,000 words of central memory, mass stor-
age devices, and a variety of input-output capa-
bilities, represents a major upgrading of SWRHL's
data processing capacity. The terminal computer
is a CDC 1700 and serves as a communication
interface for remote job entry.
The computing workload since acquisition of the
6400 system has been evenly split between de-
velopment and production. The 6400 computer
usage as a function of data processing system
and program is shown below.
The majority of programming effort for the first
half of the year was geared toward converting
production systems to run on the CDC 6400. A
total of 78 programs and 12 data files were con-
verted. Since installation of the new computer,
the programming emphasis has been on upgrading
existing systems to take advantage of the 6400
capabilities and in the development of new pro-
grams. Work has been initiated and is in various
stages of completion on four major data proces-
sing systems:
1. Dosimetry System
2. Air Surveillance Data Management System
3. Indoor Radon Study Data Management
System
4. Nuclide Data Storage and Retrieval System
COMPUTER USAGE
10
o 8
o
f 6
0
PRODUCTION ~
DEVELOPMENT ¦
40
_30
§20
o
x 10
W 3
o
§2
UJ 1
CO
o n
o O
CD
O
D
O
PRODUCTION ~
DEVELOPMENT H
O
CO
DATA PROCESSING SYSTEM
(USAGE SINCE SEPT. 1970)
PROGRAM
(USAGE SINCE SEPT. 1970)
-------
48
CENTRAL COMPUTING SYSTEM CONCEPTUAL MODEL
DISK PACK PLOTTER DISK FILE
PLOTTER
MAGNETIC TAPE
-------
49
Additionally nine special purpose user programs
were written. Four of these were developed to
computerize computations resulting from radio-
chemical analysis. Three of the programs were
written to provide a more flexible report generat-
ing capability for off-site surveillance. One pro-
gram was developed to produce microfilm plot
output in support of gamma spectral analysis. The
final program was written to utilize a KWIC list
utility for creating key-word in context biblio-
graphy listings.
WIDE-ANGLE VIEW OF COMPUTER FACILITY
-------
50
CRAFT SERVICES
The craft services at SWRHL provide a central
location for design and fabrication of prototype
items as well as finished products. Over 400
work orders were processed by the machine shop,
welding and sheet metal shop and carpenter shop
in support of all laboratory programs.
MAJOR SHOP PROJECTS 1970
1. Small volume ionization chamber
2. Natural gas burner-condenser
3. Planchet punch
4. Gear boxes for mobile road scanners
5. Design and fabrication of soil sampler
6. Fabrication of Fiddler Instrument shipping boxes
for SERHL
7. Installation of shelving in Library
8. Construction of incinerator for the burning of
classified documentation
9. 3000-ml degassing chambers
10. Plastic access plug for fistulated steer
11. High power microwave source antenna
12. Rigid track for laser equipment
13. High temperature oven
14. Acrylic chair for Whole Body Counter
15. Flow cells for tritium counting
16. Tables for laser rigidity with wheels for
portability
17. Real Time Aerosol Monitor
18. Cryogenic collection systems
19. Rat smoking machine
-------
-------
52
ELECTRONIC SERVICES
The electronic services at the SWRHL encom-
pass the repair, maintenance, and modification
of all electronic equipment, calibration and stan-
dardization of instruments, and the development
and assembly of new systems.
To keep abreast of new equipment development,
the calibration and standardization section ac-
quired a transistor curve tracer to test the latest
solid state devices, three calibration fixtures to
standardize all SWRHL oscilloscopes and plug-in
units for compatible measurements, and obtained
a new 0-150 MHz oscilloscope which is capable
of measuring faster rise pulses.
MAJOR ELECTRONIC PROJECTS
1970
1. Thermal conductivity cell and associated cir-
cuitry was designed using thermistor elements
in lieu of conventional elements.
2. Output switching box permitting four multichan-
nel pulse height analyzers to be read out by one
output device.
3. Surplus search radar system made operational.
4. Telemetry trailer equipped and calibrated for use
in indoor radon study at Uravan, Colorado.
5. Electronic circuitry was fabricated for portable
alpha scintillation cell counter using Ludlum
scaler-timer.
6. Circuit tester was designed and fabricated to
test new gamma radiation monitor sub-assemblies
both in and out of the environmental chamber.
7. Design and fabrication of electrical gear for rat
smoking machine.
8. Grounding wire connected to earth wells was in-
stalled throughout counting rooms to decrease
electrical and radio frequency noise.
9. Tritium gas air sampling system using propor-
tional chambers was assembled.
10. Modified analyzers to permit 1000-minute count-
ing.
A repair and maintenance section services the
station's 2% million dollars worth of electronic
equipment. The maintenance program on 2800
items insures maximum instrument usage and
minimum downtime.
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53
FACILITY ENGINEERING
Facility engineering capabilities provide for con-
tinual physical plant upkeep, corrective and pre-
ventative maintenance and repair to real property
and equipment, rehabilitation and modification of
office and laboratory space, industrial safety,
support and liaison with University of Nevada,
Las Vegas' building and grounds staff and local
general contractors. Significant accomplishments
during 1970 include:
MAJOR PROJECTS OF
FACILITY ENGINEERING 1970
1. Government owned boilers, autoclaves and heat-
ing systems were inspected by the Nevada Indus-
trial Commission for compliance with Nevada
laws.
2. Painting of selected rooms was coordinated with
the University.
3. Defensive driving courses taught to SWRHL em-
ployees.
4. Supervised major modifications to the computer
area to meet security and physical requirements
for the new computer system (structural work
done by SWRHL employees, electrical and me-
chanical work by contractors).
5. Supervised major modification to Engineering
Building warehouse to provide laboratory space
fcr the Electronic Products Program (structural
work done by SWRHL employees, electrical and
mechanical work by contractors).
6. Designed a multiple electroplating unit and spe-
cial low velocity exhaust hood.
7. Conversion of milk laboratory space to office
space.
8. Provided mechanical systems for lunch room
facilities.
9. Structural analysis of Administration Building
for storage of security safes and files.
10. Fire alarm systems were tested, drills carried out
and fire extinguisher surveys were made.
-------
54
MAINTENANCE AND CALIBRATION
-------
55
RADIO STATION WA7AEL
Communications capabilities maintained at the
SWRHL include a standby radio station installed
in the Administration building. Using call letters
WA7AEL and operated by a SWRHL electronics
technician, this radio station not only provides
immediate communications support for radiologi-
cal safety activities but serves also in the DHEW
Emergency Communications System. In this latter
capacity, radio communications services are of-
fered in times of natural disaster or other off-site
communications emergencies. Activities of this
station include the coordination of emergency in-
formational and news exchanges, relay of mes-
sages, supplies and authorizations in and out of
disaster areas, and operation of a radio net con-
trol service. These services were provided most
recently in earthquakes and floods in Alaska and
California. Testimonial to the proficient and
timely services provided are the many citations
bestowed on the station and the radio operator
by governmental and civic agencies.
-------
A constant need exists for information about
SWRHL programs, activities, and findings. In-
creased public interest and concern for quality
of the environment are reflected in the number
and kinds of inquiries made by members of gov-
ernment and the public in general. These come
from legislators, civic groups, medical and edu-
cational institutions, service groups, businesses,
and private citizens. Prompt response is made
through direct correspondence and interviews,
published reports, information releases to news
media, brochures, presentations, exhibits, dis-
plays, and tours of SWRHL facilities. Public
meetings, briefings and other personal appear-
ances are held from time to time.
Sponsorship of and participation in various sym-
posia are other ways in which the SWRHL pro-
vides information on environmental radiation and
radiological health. Public Health Aspects of
Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Explosives, held in
1969, was the most recent symposium sponsored
by the SWRHL. During 1970, plans were made
and work begun to sponsor a Tritium Symposium
jointly with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
The four-day symposium will be held in Las
Vegas, Nevada, August 30 through September 2,
1971.
In the past year, 22 SWRHL technical reports
were published, all of which are available to the
public throughthe National Technical Information
Service (NTIS). Other publications prepared and
distributed include a style guide for the prepara-
tion of technical papers and reports, two editions
of Laser Fundamentals and Experiments, reprints
of three other SWRHL reports, and a number of
abstracts for papers presented by SWRHL per-
sonnel. Brochures outlining certain SWRHL pro-
grams and facilities were published: Experimental
Farm. Whole-Body Counter, and MLON, Medical
Liaison Officer Network. A fourth brochure, Ra-
dium Safety, Storage and Research, written by
the Southeastern Radiological Health Laboratory
(SERHL), was illustrated and prepared for publi-
cation by SWRHL. Surveillance data collected
routinely by the SWRHL are also published regu-
larly in Radiological Health Data and Reports.
Literature other than that developed by the SWRHL
was used to supplement SWRHL publications in
providing information and answering inquiries
concerning the Public Health Service, environ-
mental health, and nuclear testing activities.
SWRHL LIBRARY-
-------
57
-------
58
Approximately 1700 persons visited the SWRHL
during 56 tours of the facilities. Thirty-six of
the groups touring the NTS visited the experi-
mental dairy farm, an 80 percent increase over
the previous year. Nearly every tour group re-
ceived a briefing on SWRHL operations, activi-
ties, and findings. Participation of SWRHL staff
as lecturers and tour guides involved 333 man-
hours of staff time.
Speakers on SWRHL activities and related topics
were provided to six civic groups in Las Vegas
and off-site communities. SWRHL staff appeared
on television to answer inquiries on a wide range
of topics including plutonium contamination at
the NTS, radioactivity in underground water sup-
plies, the Medical Liaison Officer Network, health
hazards of watching a solar eclipse, and what
it's like to live in a gambling town.
Thirty-three SWRHL news releases were issued
to local and regional news media. Interviews
with SWRHL staff and visits to SWRHL facilities
were arranged for a number of freelance writers,
photographers, and reporters from local, regional,
and national news media. Inquiries ranged from
questions about wild horses in the southern Ne-
vada area, to the indoor radon studies, the radi-
ation standards controversy, and possible health
effects from radioactivity released to the envi-
ronment at the NTS.
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59
The staff photographer filled 127formal requests
for photographic services. More than 200 35mm
slides and 250 color and black-and-white nega-
tives were added to the official SWRHL files,
and more than 500 slides and 1600 prints were
distributed. Many of these were used to illustrate
reports, brochures, newspaper or magazine arti-
cles; used as visual aids; or provided to other
government organizations and agencies at their
request. The staff photographer produced a
series of photographs of monitoring equipment
to illustrate a university textbook, Emergency
Monitoring Procedures, written by Dr. Hiram Hunt
of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Assis-
tance was provided to the Clark County District
Health Department in obtaining 16mm movie foot-
age of air pollution in the Las Vegas Valley.
While providing special photographic coverage
of SWRHL's off-site safety activities for the
flaring phase of Plowshare Project Rulison,
special infra-red photographic techniques were
used to show the plume rise from the flaring
stack when it could not be seen with the naked
eye. Other agencies expressed interest in using
this technique to monitor reactor effluents at
NRDS.
INFRA-RED FILM WAS USED TO RECORD THE PLUME
RISE FROM THE RULISON FLARING STACK.
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60
An exhibit on Public Law 90-602 was revised to
illustrate specific electronic product radiation
studies being done at the SWRHL. The revised
exhibit was shown in cooperation with the BRH
at the Annual Training Conference of the National
Environmental Health Association held in Las
Vegas in June. The SWRHL assisted BRH with
the X Rays in Dentistry exhibit shown at the
American Dental Association meeting held in
Las Vegas in November. A prototype exhibit for
a specific off-site area was produced for Lincoln
County Courthouse in Pioche.at the State Train-
ing School for Girls in Caliente, and at the Pah-
ranagat High School in Alamo, Nevada, during
late summer and early fall. More than 215 thou-
sand persons saw "Big Sam", one of the fistu-
lated steers from the beef herd managed by the
SWRHL at the NTS, while he was on exhibit at
the State Fair of Texas in Dallas in October. The
steer was shown jointly by the SWRHL and NVOO
under the sponsorship of the Dallas Health and
Science Museum. About 10,000 SWRHL publica-
tions were distributed during the Fair including
6500 copies of a special flier explaining the ex-
hibit and about 3500 Experimental Farm bro-
chures, SWRHL Annual Reports, and technical
reports on the Laboratory's beef and dairy herds.
.v.u.
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This report makes no warranty or representation, expressed or implied, with respect to the accuracy,
completeness, or usefulness of the information contained in this report, or that the use of any infor-
mation, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this report may not infringe privately owned rights;
or assumes any liabilities with respect to the use of, or for damages resulting from the use of any
information, apparatus, method, or process disclosed in this report.
/
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