Power reactor emergency response field monitoring practices in the United States

A study was conducted to characterize emergency field monitoring team practices at commercial nuclear power plants in the United States. Using written surveys and telephone interviews, 55 facilities were polled regarding equipment used, team staffing, duties, transportation, personnel protection measures, management techniques, and prevalent problem areas. The results indicate that standard practice includes use of Geiger-Müller survey meters and ion chambers for plume location and dose-rate estimation. Field screening counts of I and particulate air samples are performed by 71% of respondents, with 29% screening only I cartridges. Two or three two-person teams are typical. Teams compare open- and closed-window survey results (91%) or readings taken at various elevations (55%) to determine plume location or the extent of ground contamination. While 87% make respirators available to team members, 49% do not have pre-established criteria for respirator use. Potassium iodide is made available to team members by 96% of the facilities surveyed. Communication and vehicle problems are most prevalent.