Practical system to detect and assess consequences of radioactivity in a wound

Any wound received within the controlled areas of Dounreay could potentially be contaminated with plutonium and/or uranium isotopes. Wounding bypasses the body's natural barriers to foreign objects, such as the skin and the lining of the alimentary canal. Therefore a relatively low intake can potentially result in a high committed effective dose. The likelihood of contamination of a wound with either plutonium or uranium is low. The decision-making process for dealing with wounds has been continually reviewed and updated by the approved dosimetry service (ADS) at Dounreay. Each wound is considered on an individual basis by the ADS in order to decide what follow-up actions, if any, are necessary. The aim of the process is to maximise the probability that a significant intake is detected, while targeting resources in an appropriate manner.