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Published on: December 14, 2017
Radiation protection at nuclear fuel cycle facilities
Kuniaki Endo1, Takumaro Momose, Sadaaki Furuta
1Radiation Protection Department, Nuclear Fuel Cycle Engineering Laboratories, Tokai Research and Development Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, 4-33 Muramatsu, Tokai-mura, Naka-gun, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. endo.kuniaki@jaea.go.jp
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|April 19, 2011
Summary
For over 40 years, Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) facilities have utilized radiation protection methods for personnel and environmental safety. These methods address external and internal radiation exposure, ensuring regulatory compliance and public health.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Engineering
- Radiation Protection
- Environmental Monitoring
Background:
- Nuclear fuel facilities require robust radiation protection strategies.
- Over 40 years of experience in radiation protection at Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) facilities.
- Key concerns include external exposure (photon, beta, neutron) and internal exposure (alpha emitters).
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline radiation protection methodologies applied at JAEA's Nuclear Fuel Cycle Engineering Laboratories (NCL).
- To highlight the importance of individual, workplace, and environmental monitoring.
- To demonstrate the effectiveness of developed systems, including accident alarm and area monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of individual, workplace, and environmental monitoring programs.
- Monitoring of airborne and surface contamination for alpha, beta, and photon emitters.
- Utilizing a critical accident alarm system and a centralized area monitoring system.
- Continuous and sampling methods for air and liquid effluent monitoring.
Main Results:
- Established and applied radiation protection methodologies over four decades.
- Effective control of external and internal radiation exposure.
- Successful long-term application of critical accident alarm systems.
- Demonstrated compliance with regulations through effluent monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Radiation protection methodologies at JAEA's NCL are well-established and effective.
- Comprehensive monitoring ensures safety for workers and the environment.
- Continuous improvement and application of monitoring systems are crucial for nuclear facility safety.
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