Capability Target 4.3: Post-Plume Phase Measurements and Sampling

ASSESSMENT – DEMONSTRATION AND EVALUATION GUIDANCE

By observing the OROs’ capability to address the appropriate bullet points below and while considering the overall capability being assessed, the following key points of review and associated questions should be considered and will support an evaluation of this capability target.

OROs demonstrate the capability to:

  • Maintain and prepare instruments, equipment, and supplies for use, including performing pre-operational checks of radiation survey instruments.
    • Did each FMT perform an operational check on each radiation survey instrument, including a source-response check which is compared to a known range of readings to confirm the instrument can properly measure radiation?
    • Did each FMT obtain a background radiation measurement with each radiation survey instrument before entering the affected area?
  • Use appropriate contamination control and PPE.
    • What sort of contamination controls and PPE was utilized?
  • Execute the sampling plan.
    • Were samples collected consistent with samples specified in the sampling plan?
  • Collect each type of sample necessary to assess the ingestion exposure pathway and to support reentry, relocation, and return decisions. The types of samples necessary are based on the exercise scenario and may include drinking water, soil, vegetation, milk, crops, or other agriculture samples.
    • Which types of samples did FMTs collect?
    • Were samples collected at the locations identified by the field team manager?
    • Did each FMT follow the appropriate procedure for collecting each type of sample?
  • Obtain and record ambient radiation measurements at each sample location and at other locations, as directed.
    • Was an ambient radiation measurement taken at each sample location?
  • Handle sample media to avoid sample cross-contamination and equipment/personnel contamination.
    • Did each FMT properly package each sample?
    • What precautions were taken to prevent cross-contamination of samples?
    • Did each FMT properly document each sample?
    • Was a chain-of-custody record created?
    • Was each sample assigned a unique identification number?
  • Prepare and package samples appropriately (e.g., geometries specific to those used in the processing samples,  including sample identification, and chain-of-custody forms) to ensure the integrity of samples throughout transportation and transfer.
    • Did each FMT properly document each sample, including creating a chain-of-custody record? Was each sample assigned a unique identification number?
    • Were samples collected by the ORO at a central location (e.g. sample control point) or delivered directly to the laboratory?
    • Did sample control point personnel follow appropriate procedures for receiving samples?
    • Were chain-of-custody records properly maintained?
    • How were samples transported to the laboratory?
    • Were any samples identified as having exposure rates or contamination levels too high to be accepted by a particular laboratory? If so, what was done with those samples?