ASTM E1278-88(1996)e1

1.1 The purpose of this guide is to provide guidance in determining site-specific conversion factors for translating between dose limits and residual radioactive contamination levels on equipment, structures, and land areas. This guide does not endorse specific levels of allowable residual radioactive contamination, nor does it provide a methodology for population dose calculations.

1.2 Standards prescribing dose limits for decommissioned nuclear facilities or sites and/or private properties contaminated with radioactive materials are necessary to identify decommissioning methods, guide cleanup (remedial action) efforts, determine cleanup costs, identify the amount of radioactive waste to be disposed, and protect the public. Such standards, however, are not yet available for all types of nuclear facilities, sites, or properties. Regulatory Guide 1.86 of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) (1), as well as specific promulgations of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE), provide some specific guidance.

1.3 This guide is not intended to establish these federal policies. They will be promulgated by the EPA and other federal agencies. Rather, it is to serve as a guide to acceptable methodology for translating the yet to be determined dose limits into allowable levels of residual radioactive materials that can be left at a site following decommissioning.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.