Neutron personnel dosimetry intercomparison studies at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory: a summary (1981-1986)

Area of Science:

• Health Physics
• Radiation Dosimetry
• Nuclear Science

Background:

• The Dosimetry Applications Research (DOSAR) Facility at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has conducted Personnel Dosimetry Intercomparison Studies (PDIS) since 1974.
• These studies aim to provide dosimetrists with opportunities to test and calibrate their neutron personnel monitoring systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize and analyze neutron dose equivalent measurements from PDIS 7 through 12 (1981-1986).
• To evaluate low dose equivalent sensitivity, accuracy, and precision of personnel neutron dosimetry systems.
• To assess performance relative to accreditation standards.

Main Methods:

• Personnel dosimeters were mailed to ORNL, exposed to low-level neutron dose equivalents (<15 mSv) in mixed-radiation fields.
• Exposed dosimeters were returned to participants for evaluation.
• Analysis focused on approximately 3450 neutron dose equivalent measurements.

Main Results:

• The PDIS program has generated extensive data on neutron dosimeter performance.
• Analysis focused on sensitivity, accuracy, and precision at low dose equivalents.
• Performance was evaluated against established accreditation standards for dosimetry systems.

Conclusions:

• PDIS results offer valuable insights into occupational neutron monitoring practices.
• The studies highlight areas for improvement in personnel neutron dosimetry.
• Findings support accreditation testing and enhance the reliability of neutron monitoring systems.