Some safety procedures for handling 32P during postlabelling assays

32P is a high-energy (1.7 MeV) beta-emitter. Its handling is therefore subject to regulation and very strict control. During the postlabelling procedure, numerous steps involve exposure to 32P. The main risk from exposure is through irradiation, but direct accidental contamination can occur. The various manipulation steps (ATP synthesis, labelling, chromatography, quantification) have been analysed for their contribution to potential radiation exposure. Several measures have been taken in the IARC laboratories to minimize exposure of all personnel involved, including those who handle radioactive wastes, since most of the initial radioactivity is eventually discarded. The various steps to be taken for minimizing exposure, such as the training of personnel using fluorescent compounds instead of radioactivity, the use of protective screens and of equipment specially adapted for this work, are reviewed.