The best method of surveying for contamination is the use of a Liquid Scintillation Counter (LSC) or Gamma counter (GC) swipe test. To perform a swipe test, follow these procedures:

1. Don clean gloves.
2. Use filter paper to wipe a 100cm^2 area.
3. Prepare a scintillation vial per the detector’s instruction manual.
4. Place the filter paper in the scintillation vial, place the vial in the LSC/GC.
5. Run the LSC/GC to count the sample activity.

The resulting activity must be converted to DPM, taking in to account the efficiency of the LSC/GC. The Radiation Safety Office considers DPM greater than the following to be contamination:

• Alpha: 50 DPM/100 cm^2
• Gamma/Beta: 100 DPM/100 cm^2

Swipes should be taken anywhere that radioactive material was used or could easily spread to. For example:

• Benchtops
• Fume Hoods
• Floors
• Door handles

If a gamma-emitting isotope is used, a survey meter calibrated to read in mR/hr must be used to read the dose rate. An ambient dose rate of more than 1mR/hr will require shielding.
If a sealed source produces a dose rate of more than 5mR/hr at 1 foot, a “Caution – Radiation Area” sign will be required.

Should contamination be found during a survey, follow these steps:

1. Clean the area, taking care to minimize the potential spread of the contamination. The Radiation Safety Office recommends the use of a radiation decontamination spray such as Radcon, Radiac or equivalent. Dispose of towels used for cleaning as radioactive waste.
2. Once the decontamination is complete, carefully survey the area again to verify that the contamination has been removed.
3. Document these additional surveys alongside the original survey, including a comment stating that contamination had been found and was removed.

If the contamination is extensive (on multiple surfaces) or if you would like help, please contact the Radiation Safety Office.