StandardDetails

This International Standard is applicable to equipment used for sampling and continuous measurement of radioactive noble gases in the workplace, in gaseous effluents discharged into the environment as well as in the environment itself. Monitoring by definition is the process of continuous and real-time measurement. The processes of sampling or taking samples for retrospective laboratory analysis are included in this standard. The object of this standard is to establish mandatory general requirements and to present examples of acceptable methods and equipment for sampling and monitoring radioactive noble gases. Current standard IEC 60761-3 which is complemented by this standard, is applicable to installing portable and transportable equipment for sampling and monitoring radioactive noble gases, ONLY IN GASEOUS EFFLUENTS, while this standard expands coverage to include monitoring all possible locations where radioactive noble gases could present a radiological hazard. The equipment is designed to be operational during normal operation conditions as well as under emergency conditions, both during and following an accident. Depending on the nature of the emergency conditions it may be necessary to install specially designed equipment for normal operational conditions and other equipment for emergency conditions. This standard is applicable to radioactive noble gas samplers and monitors intended to provide the following functions: – The measurement of the volumetric activity of radioactive noble gases and their variation with time in the workplace, in gaseous effluents at the discharge point and in the environment. – The measurements performed during normal operational conditions as well as under emergency conditions during and after an accidental release. – The actuation of an alarm when a predetermined volumetric activity, or concentration, or a predetermined total of released radioactivity is exceeded. – The determination of the total gaseous activity discharged over a given time and/or to provide information on the composition of a mixture of different gases released. – The sampling and retrospective analysis of air or gas containing noble gas. Radon, with isotopes 219Rn, 220Rn, and 222Rn, is a naturally occurring radioactive noble gas whose measurements are NOT considered in this standard. The presence of radon and its progeny may significantly interfere with the proper measurement of the noble gases of concern in this standard. This standard specifies the general characteristics, general testing procedures, mechanical, electrical and electronic, radiological, safety and environmental characteristics, and the proper identification and certification of the equipment. If this equipment is part of a centralized system for continuous radiation monitoring in a nuclear facility, there may be additional requirements from other standards related to those systems.