ASTM D5608-16

Standard Practices for Decontamination of Sampling and Non Sample Contacting Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
5.1 The primary objectives of work at low-level radioactive waste sites are the protection of personnel, prevention of the spread of contamination, minimization of additional wastes, protection of sample data quality, and the unconditional release of equipment used.  
5.2 Preventing the contamination of equipment used at low-level radioactive waste sites and the decontamination of contaminated equipment are key aspects of achieving these goals.  
5.3 This practice provides guidance in the planning of work to prevent contamination and when necessary, for the decontamination of equipment that has become contaminated. The benefits include:  
5.3.1 Minimizing the spread of contamination within a site and preventing the spread outside of the work area.  
5.3.2 Reducing the potential exposure of workers during the work and the subsequent decontamination of equipment.  
5.3.3 Minimizing the amounts of additional wastes generated during the work, including liquid, or mixed wastes, including separation of the waste types, such as protective clothing, cleaning equipment, cleaning solutions, and protective wraps and drapes.  
5.3.4 Improving the quality of sample data and reliability.  
5.3.5 Selecting equipment based on total life-cycle costs counting labor, waste, containment, disposal, treatment, and additional analytical costs, such as using dedicated or disposable equipment rather than decontaminating between uses.  
5.4 This practice may not be applicable to all low-level radioactive waste sites, such as sites containing low-level radioactive wastes mixed with chemical or reactive wastes. Field personnel, with assistance from trained radiological control professionals, should have the flexibility to modify the decontamination procedures with due consideration for the sampling objectives, or if past experience supports alternative procedures for contamination protection or decontamination.  
5.5 This practice does not address the monitoring, protection, or decont...
SCOPE
1.1 These practices cover the decontamination of sampling and non-sample contacting equipment used in the sampling of soils, soil gas, sludges, surface water and groundwater at waste sites known or suspected of containing low level radioactive wastes. It may also have application for decontamination of sampling and heavy construction equipment used during remediation activities.  
1.2 This practice is applicable at sites where low level radioactive wastes are known or suspected to exist. This practice may also be applicable for the decontamination of equipment used in known or suspected transuranic, or mixed wastes when used by itself or in conjunction with Practice D5088.  
1.3 Procedures are contained in this practice for the decontamination of equipment that comes into contact with the sample matrix (sample contacting equipment), and for ancillary equipment that has not contacted the sample, but may have become contaminated during use (non-contacting equipment). For sample contacting equipment there are four separate procedures (Procedure A through D) in Section 8. For non-contacting equipment, one procedure is presented as covered in Section 9.  
1.4 The user is reminded of the importance of proper decontamination planning to minimize the amount of decontamination wastes generated and to reduce or eliminate the use of cleaning agents that are themselves hazardous materials. Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) radiological surveys and samples that document decontamination effectiveness can be used to modify or enhance decontamination techniques.  
1.5 This practice is applicable to most conventional sampling equipment constructed of metallic and hard, smooth synthetic materials. Materials with rough or porous surfaces, or having a high sorption rate should not be used in radioactive waste sampling due to the difficulties with decontamination.  
1.6 In those cases where sampling will be periodically performe...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 31-Jan-2016
• ICS: 13.030.30 - Special wastes
• Technical Committee: D18 - Soil and Rock
• Drafting Committee: D18.21 - Groundwater and Vadose Zone Investigations

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM D5608-10 - Standard Practices for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-Feb-2016
• Refers: ASTM D5088-15a - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2015
• Refers: ASTM D5088-15 - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2015
• Refers: ASTM D653-14 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2014
• Refers: ASTM D653-11 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2011
• Refers: ASTM D653-09 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009
• Refers: ASTM D653-08a - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2008
• Refers: ASTM D653-08 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2008
• Refers: ASTM D5088-02(2008) - Standard Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• Effective Date: 15-Sep-2008
• Refers: ASTM D653-07f - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07e - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07d - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07c - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-07b - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-May-2007
• Refers: ASTM D653-06 - Standard Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2006

Overview

ASTM D5608-16 is the international standard practice developed by ASTM International for the decontamination of sampling and non-sample contacting equipment used at low-level radioactive waste sites. This standard provides key guidance for preventing, assessing, and addressing contamination of field equipment during the investigation and remediation of environments where low-level radioactive or mixed wastes may be present. The primary objectives of ASTM D5608-16 include the protection of personnel, prevention of contamination spread, minimization of waste, maintenance of high sample data quality, and ensuring the safe release of decontaminated equipment for future use.

Key Topics

• Decontamination Planning: Emphasizes the need for efficient planning to minimize contamination risks, reduce additional waste generation, and ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Equipment Types: Addresses both sample-contacting equipment (such as pumps, bailers, and sampling tubes) and non-contacting equipment (e.g., drilling rigs, hand tools, excavation equipment).
• Procedures: Outlines four decontamination procedures for sample-contacting equipment and one for non-contacting equipment, adaptable based on contamination severity, matrix type, and decontamination goals.
• Waste Minimization: Strong focus on reducing both liquid and solid waste generated during decontamination and separating waste streams for more effective management.
• Material Suitability: Advises the use of non-porous, metallic, or hard synthetic materials for sampling equipment to facilitate effective decontamination and minimize cross-contamination risks.
• Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC): Recommends radiological surveys and wipe tests for verifying the effectiveness of decontamination prior to equipment reuse or release.
• ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable): Promotes radiation protection principles to manage exposures and prevent unnecessary personnel contact with radioactive materials.

Applications

ASTM D5608-16 has broad applicability across industries and organizations involved in environmental monitoring, waste site remediation, and site assessment activities where radioactive or mixed (radioactive and hazardous chemical) wastes are present. Its main practical uses include:

• Environmental Sampling: Ensures that equipment used for soil, water, sludge, and gas sampling returns reliable, uncontaminated results by specifying how to clean between uses and avoid cross-contamination.
• Site Remediation: Applies to the decontamination of both light and heavy equipment involved in excavation, drilling, and construction activities at contaminated sites, reducing the risk of further spread or exposure.
• Regulatory Compliance: Assists organizations in meeting federal, state, and local decontamination and waste management regulations by providing accepted procedures and documentation practices.
• Occupational Safety: Contributes to worker protection by detailing methods that lower radiation doses and the potential for accidental exposure during routine operations and decontamination processes.
• Waste Reduction: Supports sustainable practices by recommending approaches that minimize waste production, such as choosing between reusable, dedicated, or disposable equipment based on cost-benefit analysis.

Related Standards

For comprehensive radiation safety and effective decontamination, ASTM D5608-16 should be considered in conjunction with related standards and regulations:

• ASTM D5088: Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
• ASTM D653: Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
• ASTM D1193: Specification for Reagent Water
• ANSI/HPS N13.12: Surface and Volume Radioactivity Standards for Clearance
• U.S. Department of Energy 10 CFR 835: Radiological Protection for Occupational Workers
• U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission 10 CFR 20: Standards for Protection Against Radiation
• MARSSIM (Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual)
• Local, State, and Federal Waste Management and Occupational Health Regulations

ASTM D5608-16 offers essential practices and checklists for maintaining the integrity of sampling results, protecting personnel, and achieving safe, traceable equipment decontamination at sites handling low-level radioactive materials. Its adoption supports both regulatory compliance and best practices in environmental safety and quality.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D5608 − 16
Standard Practices for
Decontamination of Sampling and Non Sample Contacting
Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste Sites
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5608; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope* syntheticmaterials.Materialswithroughorporoussurfaces,or
having a high sorption rate should not be used in radioactive
1.1 These practices cover the decontamination of sampling
waste sampling due to the difficulties with decontamination.
and non-sample contacting equipment used in the sampling of
soils, soil gas, sludges, surface water and groundwater at waste
1.6 In those cases where sampling will be periodically
sites known or suspected of containing low level radioactive
performed, such as sampling of wells, consideration should be
wastes. It may also have application for decontamination of
given to the use of dedicated sampling equipment if legitimate
sampling and heavy construction equipment used during reme-
concerns exist for the production of undesirable or unmanage-
diation activities.
able waste byproducts, or both, during the decontamination of
tools and equipment.
1.2 This practice is applicable at sites where low level
radioactive wastes are known or suspected to exist. This
1.7 This practice does not address regulatory requirements
practice may also be applicable for the decontamination of
for personnel protection or decontamination, or for the
equipment used in known or suspected transuranic, or mixed
handling, labeling, shipping, or storing of wastes or samples.
wastes when used by itself or in conjunction with Practice
Specific radiological release requirements and limits must be
D5088.
determined by users in accordance with local, state and federal
regulations.
1.3 Procedures are contained in this practice for the decon-
tamination of equipment that comes into contact with the
1.8 Other jurisdictions may have equivalent requirements.
sample matrix (sample contacting equipment), and for ancil-
For additional information in the United States, for example,
laryequipmentthathasnotcontactedthesample,butmayhave
see United States Department of Energy (DOE) 10 CFR Part
become contaminated during use (non-contacting equipment).
835 and U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) 10 CFR
For sample contacting equipment there are four separate
Part 20.
procedures (Procedure A through D) in Section 8. For non-
contactingequipment,oneprocedureispresentedascoveredin 1.9 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
Section 9. standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
standard.
1.4 The user is reminded of the importance of proper
decontamination planning to minimize the amount of decon-
1.10 This practice offers an organized collection of infor-
tamination wastes generated and to reduce or eliminate the use
mation or a series of options and does not recommend a
of cleaning agents that are themselves hazardous materials.
specific course of action. This document cannot replace edu-
Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) radiological sur-
cation or experience and should be used in conjunction with
veysandsamplesthatdocumentdecontaminationeffectiveness
professional judgement. Not all aspects of this practice may be
can be used to modify or enhance decontamination techniques.
applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not
intended to represent or replace the standard of care by which
1.5 This practice is applicable to most conventional sam-
the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged
pling equipment constructed of metallic and hard, smooth
nor should this document be applied without consideration of
a project’s many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and
title of this document means only that the document has been
Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Groundwater and
approved through the ASTM consensus process.
Vadose Zone Investigations.
Current edition approved Feb. 1, 2016. Published February 2016. Originally
1.11 This standard does not purport to address all of the
approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 2010 as D5608–10. DOI:
10.1520/D5608-16. safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5608 − 16
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- 3.3.1.1 Discussion—Controlled areas are intended to pre-
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica- vent the inadvertent access by establishing a boundary
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use. Specific precau- (fencing, walls, or other natural features). Exit from a con-
tionary statements are given in Section 6. trolled area may be controlled to prevent the spreading of
contamination by decontamination processes (known as a
2. Referenced Documents
decontamination path or zone) prior to personnel or equipment
moving to the support zone.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained
3.3.2 decontamination—the process of removing or reduc-
Fluids
ing to a known level undesirable physical, chemical, or
D1193 Specification for Reagent Water
radiological constituents from equipment.
D5088 Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment
3.3.2.1 Discussion—Decontamination of sample contacting
Used at Waste Sites
equipment maximizes the representativeness of the physical,
2.2 United States Code of Federal Regulations:
chemical, or radioactive analyses proposed for a given sample.
10 CFR Part 20 Standards for Protection Against Radiation
3.3.3 non-contacting equipment—equipment used in and
10 CFR 60
around the sampling that may become contaminated, but that
10 CFR Part 835 Radiological Protection for Occupational
does not contact the sample at anytime.
Workers
3.3.3.1 Discussion—Examples would include drilling rigs,
2.3 Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation
hand tools, drill rods, excavation equipment, or barrier mate-
Manual (MARSSIM), Nureg-1575, Rev 1, EPA 402-R-97-016,
rials.
Rev 1, DOE/EH-0624, Rev 1
3.3.4 organic desorbing agents—solvent rinse solutions
ANSI/HPS N13.12 Surface and Volume Radioactivity—
such as isopropanol, acetone, hexane, or methanol.
Standards for Clearance
3.3.5 QC water (control rinse water)—water having a
3. Terminology
known chemistry, free (below detection levels) of organic or
radiological constituents.
3.1 Definitions:
3.3.5.1 Discussion—Deionized water of reagent grade is
3.1.1 For definitions of general technical terms used within
normally sufficient, such as ASTM D1193, Type IV.
this practice refer to Terminology D653.
3.3.6 rinse water—water having a known chemistry.
3.2 General Definitions Used in This Practice
3.3.6.1 Discussion—Deionized or distilled water may be
3.2.1 as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA)—a process
used when small quantities are required. When large quantities
used for radiation protection to manage and control exposures
are required, potable water of a chemistry known to be free
(both individual and collective to the work force and to the
(belowdetectionlevels)ofradioactiveorchemicalconstituents
general public) and releases of radioactive materials to the
can be used.
environment so that the levels are as low as is reasonable
3.3.7 sample contacting equipment—equipment and tools
taking into account social, technical, economic, practical, and
that physically come in contact with a sample and that could
public policy consideration (from ANSI/HPS N13.12).
allow cross-contamination from one sample to another.
3.2.2 contamination—either fixed or removable radioactive
3.3.7.1 Discussion—Examples include drive cylinders,
materials in or on an item where it is not wanted.
bailers, sample handling, equipment, pumps, and sampling
3.2.2.1 Discussion—Radioactive materials in a glovebox,
tubes.
for example, are not contamination.
3.3.8 survey—a radioactivity measurement with instrumen-
3.2.3 mixed wastes—wastes containing both radioactivity
tation to evaluate and assess the presence of radioactive
(as defined by the United StatesAtomic EnergyAct of 1954 as
materials or other sources of radioactivity under a specific set
amended) and quantities of United States Environmental Pro-
of conditions.
tection Agency Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
3.3.8.1 Discussion—Also known as frisking.
(RCRA) listed wastes.
3.3.9 wipe test—a radiation detection test performed to
3.2.4 radioactive waste—waste containing radioactive ele-
determine the amount of removable radioactive material per
ments or activation of negligible economic value, considering 2
100 cm surface area by wiping with a dry filter or soft
the cost of recovery or use.
absorbent paper with moderate pressure and then assessing the
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
amount of radioactivity with an instrument of appropriate
3.3.1 controlled area—an area to which access is physically
efficiency.
limited in order to protect individuals from exposure to
3.3.9.1 Discussion—Aradiological survey and a wipe test is
radiation, contamination, hazardous materials or other hazards.
generally required for release of equipment from a radiological
area to an uncontrolled area or for unrestricted use, (also
2 known as swipe test).
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
3.3.10 remediation control survey—a type of survey that
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
monitors the progress of remedial action by real-time measure-
the ASTM website.
ment of areas being decontaminated to determine if efforts are
Available from Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC 20402. effective and to guide further decontamination activities.
D5608 − 16
4. Summary of Practice decontamination procedures with due consideration for the
sampling objectives, or if past experience supports alternative
4.1 This practice provides guidance and details for the
procedures for contamination protection or decontamination.
development of a site and sampling event specific decontami-
nation plan for use in the decontamination of field equipment 5.5 This practice does not address the monitoring,
used during sampling or other activities in areas known, or protection, or decontamination of personnel working with
suspected of containing low-level radioactive wastes. Four low-level radioactive wastes.
techniques or methods are provided, with the selection and use
5.6 This practice does not address regulatory requirements
based on the type of contamination and the difficulty of
that may control or restrict work, the need for permits or
removal.
regulatory approvals, or the accumulation, handling, or dis-
4.2 Planningshouldincludeanevaluationofthecostsofthe posal of generated wastes.
decontamination process, including personnel exposures,
5.7 This practice does not set the release levels for equip-
waste disposal, personnel time, personal protective equipment
ment that has been decontaminated. Release levels are to be
(PPE) and other costs versus the use of less hazardous
determined in advance in the QA/QC planning process. Guid-
materials for decontamination, or avoidance of decontamina-
ance for release limits can be found in the reference docu-
tionbytheuseofdedicatedequipment,ortheuseofdisposable
ments.
equipment.
5.8 This practice does not address the regulatory require-
4.3 Approaches and procedures are provided for decontami-
ments for the handling, labeling, shipping, or storage of wastes
nation of two classifications of equipment, sample-contacting
or samples.
and non-contacting.
5.9 The decontamination process should be planned to use
4.4 This practice includes the principles of ALARA and
the least aggressive methods and materials to be used to
waste minimization as well as the protection of sample data
minimize the generation of additional wastes while resulting in
quality.
an acceptable decontamination while minimizing the genera-
tionofwastes.Studieshavefoundthattheuseofchemicalscan
5. Significance and Use
oftenbeavoided,usingpressurewashes,steamcleaning,orthe
5.1 The primary objectives of work at low-level radioactive use of applied heat.
waste sites are the protection of personnel, prevention of the
5.10 The practice of performing remediation control sur-
spread of contamination, minimization of additional wastes,
veys can decrease the effort required to achieve decontamina-
protectionofsampledataquality,andtheunconditionalrelease
tion release levels.
of equipment used.
6. Hazards
5.2 Preventing the contamination of equipment used at
low-level radioactive waste sites and the decontamination of
6.1 Equipment decontamination activities involving radio-
contaminated equipment are key aspects of achieving these
active constituents provide numerous opportunities for person-
goals.
nel contamination and radiation exposure, the uncontrolled
5.3 This practice provides guidance in the planning of work spread of contamination, and the unnecessary generation of
to prevent contamination and when necessary, for the decon- additional radioactive or mixed wastes.
tamination of equipment that has become contaminated. The
6.2 Personnel involved in the decontamination of field
benefits include:
equipment used in a known or suspected radiologically con-
5.3.1 Minimizing the spread of contamination within a site
taminated site must be trained and qualified in the work being
and preventing the spread outside of the work area.
performed and in emergency procedures.
5.3.2 Reducing the potential exposure of workers during the
6.3 Work performed in a known or suspected radiologically
work and the subsequent decontamination of equipment.
contaminated site should be under the continuous control of a
5.3.3 Minimizing the amounts of additional wastes gener-
trained Radiological Control Technician (also known by other
ated during the work, including liquid, or mixed wastes,
titles including Radiation Safety Technicians, Health Physics
including separation of the waste types, such as protective
Technician, or Radiation Protection Technicians).
clothing, cleaning equipment, cleaning solutions, and protec-
tive wraps and drapes. 6.4 Strict controls around the work area must be maintained
5.3.4 Improving the quality of sample data and reliability. at all times to prevent the access or egress of personnel,
5.3.5 Selecting equipment based on total life-cycle costs equipment, or samples to prevent unnecessary exposure, un-
counting labor, waste, containment, disposal, treatment, and controlled releases of contaminated equipment or personnel,
additional analytical costs, such as using dedicated or dispos- and unnecessary contamination of equipment. The controls
able equipment rather than decontaminating between uses. will include barriers, such as fences, temporary building, or
other enclosures to prevent access or egress without proper
5.4 This practice may not be applicable to all low-level
monitoring and decontamination.
radioactive waste sites, such as sites containing low-level
radioactive wastes mixed with chemical or reactive wastes. 6.5 Personnelworkinginaradiologicallycontaminatedarea
Field personnel, with assistance from trained radiological have the potential for receiving radiation exposure as well as
control professionals, should have the flexibility to modify the internal and external contamination. Personnel should be
D5608 − 16
trained to a Site Specific Health and Safety Plan, radiation 7.1.5 Equipment required to prevent contamination, decon-
safety and other required training, such as hazardous waste taminate equipment, contain spills, or store contaminated
worker training, which specifies the required training, person- equipment.
nel protection, and dosimetry equipment required.
7.1.6 Adequacy of monitoring and safety personnel and
equipment for the anticipated work, during both normal or
6.6 Some decontamination solutions may be hazardous to
emergency conditions,
humans, or may be incompatible with personal protective
clothingnormallyworn.Forexample,organicsolventsoracids
7.1.7 Assignment of responsibilities, including defining re-
may permeate or degrade protective clothing or equipment. sponsibilities for safety, quality, and the work processes being
Protective clothing worn during decontamination should be
planned.
selected for wet work involving the specific chemicals and
7.1.8 Establishing the work control area barriers, signage,
solutions to be used.
and controls for personnel, tools, and equipment entering the
work area, and the contamination release limits that will be
6.7 Chemicals and solutions used during decontamination
required for equipment, samples, tools, personnel, and wastes
may be hazardous. Personnel involved should be trained, have
the appropriate PPE and respiratory protection, and have the to be released from the control area. Personnel and equipment
access and release log requirements should be considered,
appropriate first aid and response equipment. Personnel should
be provided with Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) for the solutions along with requirements for various types of work control
permits,
or chemicals to be used. The shipping and handling of these
materials may be regulated. Some of these materials are
7.1.9 Establishing the decontamination location(s) for the
hazardous themselves and when used for decontamination will
various tools, equipment, samples and personnel equipment,
generate larger amounts of hazardous or mixed wastes that
including contamination reduction corridors and decontamina-
must be collected, containerized, stored, labeled, shipped, and
tionpadsforlargeequipmentsuchasbackhoes,drillingrigs,or
disposed.
trucks and vehicles. The benefits of decontaminating equip-
ment near the point of use should be weighed against the risks
6.8 Some equipment will degrade or produce deleterious
of transporting equipment to a central decontamination loca-
reactions when in contact with decontamination solutions.
tion and potentially spreading contamination.
Equipment and decontamination solution compatibility and
resistance should be considered when selecting equipment and
7.1.10 Establishing a waste disposal plan for how the
the decontamination procedure. anticipated wastes will be stored, both temporarily and long-
term, the anticipated means of disposal, storage, labeling, or
6.9 Decontamination methods may be incompatible with
manifesting, and the organizations and individuals who will be
hazardous substances being removed and cause reactions that
responsible. Evaluation of the need for, and benefits of the
produce heat, toxic fumes, or explosions. The potential for
work or samples should be balanced against the costs and
incompatiblematerialreactionsshouldbeevaluatedasapartof
difficulty of handling the wastes that may be generated prior to
the decontamination process selection.
performing any work.
6.10 The use of steam or high pressure washers will expose
7.1.11 Providing personnel and equipment resources for
personnel to the hazards of operation. Manufacturer’s operat-
environmentalmonitoringrequirements.Thesemayincludeair
ing literature or manuals typically contain safety precautions
monitoring or controls for airborne or windblown
for the use of the equipment and must be followed.
contamination, surface runoff controls, or other specific
weather work restrictions, such as restricting or stopping work
7. General Procedures
during or before expected windy or wet conditions.
7.1 Adequateplanningisrequiredpriortoactivityinanarea
7.1.12 Responsibilities and sequencing for the decontami-
known or suspected to contain low-level radioactive or other
nation and removal of equipment and personnel, removal of
wastes and contamination. The development of an equipment
barriers, storage of both solid and liquid wastes, and the return
decontamination plan should be a part of the activity planning.
of the site to a pre-work condition.
All personnel involved in the work should be familiar with the
7.1.13 Establishingthecontaminationlevelsthatareaccept-
plan and trained in the specific decontamination procedures.
able for free release, or transfer to other contamination areas
Workanddecontaminationplanningshouldincludethefollow-
with controls. Regulations and other guides such as the
ing:
MARSSIM provide requirements and guidance. Additional
7.1.1 The site location, conditions, known areas of surface
decontamination efforts should be employed only as needed to
and subsurface contamination.
achieve the QA/QC objectives.
7.1.2 The type, activity level, potential locations of mixed,
chemical, or reactive contamination or wastes, 7.1.14 Identifying the records that will be required and
7.1.3 The location of other physical hazards, such as under- assigning responsibilities for the completion, review,
ground utilities, overhead powerlines, and existing waste protection, and retention of records that will be generated
storage locations. during the work, including decontamination. Typical records
7.1.4 Emergency responses plans, including emergency de- include (but are not limited to): records of the survey
contamination of personnel or equipment, site evacuation and equipment, survey equipment calibration and operational
accountability, and response to fire, explosion, or other situa- checks, process and effluent monitoring, environmental
tions that may occur. monitoring, tool and waste monitoring equipment, types and
D5608 − 16
amountsofwastegenerated,sampleidentificationandanalyses cally contaminated wastes, with the remainder disposed of as
that can be used to characterize the wastes. uncontaminated waste.
7.2.9 When liquids or other materials are to be used for
7.2 Waste minimization should be an integral part of the
decontamination, verify that they are radiologically clean prior
planning and work processes. The following waste minimiza-
to use. Avoid using materials that contain significant amounts
tion considerations should be factored into the work planning
of naturally occurring radioactive matter and that may not be
process:
released from the work area.
7.2.1 Preventing the spread of contamination by sequencing
7.2.10 Work areas around samples should be draped, or
work from the least contaminated to the most contaminated
covered to prevent transport or spread of contamination that
areas.
may affect the sample data quality.
7.2.2 Maintaining a high level of site housekeeping and
7.2.11 Use rubber-tired equipment whenever practical.
cleanliness.
Avoid the use of tracked equipment, that has the tendency to
7.2.3 Selecting materials and equipment that are easily
spread contamination and are difficult to fully decontaminate.
cleaned and decontaminated for use within a contaminated
7.2.12 When heavy equipment is used, planning should
area. Generally, these are hard, nonporous materials, or mate-
avoid having the equipment work in the contaminated area
rials with protective coatings or paints. Prohibit the use of soft,
unless absolutely necessary to reduce the decontamination
or porous materials. The use of greases, solvents, or other
effort at the end. If possible, heavy equipment should work or
chemicalsshouldberestrictedorprohibitedwheneverpractical
be operated from outside the contamination control area, work
in radiologically contaminated areas due to their proclivity to
while standing on dunnage or mats, or other materials to
become contaminated or to created mixed wastes. Some types
prevent contaminating the main parts of the equipment.
of plastic will attract radiological contamination due to static
electricity and their use should be restricted.
8. Procedures for Sampling or Sample Contacting
7.2.4 Pre-cleaning all equipment prior to entry into a radio-
Equipment
logically contaminated area. Transporting soils, greases, or
other materials into the controlled areas will only increase the
8.1 Decontaminate sample contacting equipment immedi-
amount of decontamination required and generate additional ately after use and prior to use on the next sampling. If liquids
wastes. Clean equipment should be wrapped until use, particu-
are sampled, complete the decontamination before the liquids
larly if it has potential to come in contact with samples. If have dried on the surfaces, particularly on the internal of
unused, decontamination prior to release will be eliminated.A
tubing, pumps, and other difficult to cl
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: D5608 − 10 D5608 − 16
Standard Practices for
Decontamination of Field Sampling and Non Sample
Contacting Equipment Used at Low Level Radioactive Waste
Sites
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D5608; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope*
1.1 These practices cover the decontamination of field sampling and non-sample contacting equipment used in the sampling of
soils, soil gas, sludges, surface water and groundwater at waste sites known or suspected of containing low level radioactive
wastes. It may also have application for decontamination of sampling and heavy construction equipment used during remediation
activities.
1.2 This practice is applicable at sites where low level radioactive wastes are known or suspected to exist. This practice may
also be applicable for the decontamination of equipment used in known or suspected transuranic, or mixed wastes when used by
itself or in conjunction with Practice D5088.
1.3 Procedures are contained in this practice for the decontamination of equipment that comes into contact with the sample
matrix (sample contacting equipment), and for ancillary equipment that has not contacted the sample, but may have become
contaminated during use (non-contacting equipment). For sample contacting equipment there are four separate procedures
(Procedure A through D) in Section 8. For non-contacting equipment, one procedure is presented as covered in Section 9.
1.4 The user is reminded of the importance of proper decontamination planning to minimize the amount of decontamination
wastes generated and to reduce or eliminate the use of cleaning agents that are themselves hazardous materials. Quality
Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) radiological surveys and samples that document decontamination effectiveness can be used
to modify or enhance decontamination techniques.
1.5 This practice is applicable to most conventional sampling equipment constructed of metallic and hard, smooth synthetic
materials. Materials with rough or porous surfaces, or having a high sorption rate should not be used in radioactive waste sampling
due to the difficulties with decontamination.
1.6 In those cases where sampling will be periodically performed, such as sampling of wells, consideration should be given to
the use of dedicated sampling equipment if legitimate concerns exist for the production of undesirable or unmanageable waste
byproducts, or both, during the decontamination of tools and equipment.
1.7 This practice does not address regulatory requirements for personnel protection or decontamination, or for the handling,
labeling, shipping, or storing of wastes or samples. Specific radiological release requirements and limits must be determined by
users in accordance with local, state and federal regulations.
1.8 Other jurisdictions may have equivalent requirements. For additional information in the United States, see U.S. for example,
see United States Department of Energy (DOE) 10 CFR Part 835 and U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) 10 CFR Part
20.
1.9 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.
1.10 This practice offers an organized collection of information or a series of options and does not recommend a specific course
of action. This document cannot replace education or experience and should be used in conjunction with professional judgement.
Not all aspects of this practice may be applicable in all circumstances. This ASTM standard is not intended to represent or replace
the standard of care by which the adequacy of a given professional service must be judged nor should this document be applied
This practice is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D18 on Soil and Rock and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D18.21 on Groundwater and Vadose
Zone Investigations.
Current edition approved May 1, 2010Feb. 1, 2016. Published June 2010February 2016. Originally approved in 2001. Last previous edition approved in 20062010 as
D5608–01(2006).D5608–10. DOI: 10.1520/D5608-10.10.1520/D5608-16.
*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D5608 − 16
without consideration of a project’s many unique aspects. The word “standard” in the title of this document means only that the
document has been approved through the ASTM consensus process.
1.11 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use. Specific precautionary statements are given in Section 6.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D653 Terminology Relating to Soil, Rock, and Contained Fluids
D1193 Specification for Reagent Water
D5088 Practice for Decontamination of Field Equipment Used at Waste Sites
2.2 United States Code of Federal Regulations:
10 CFR Part 20 Standards for Protection Against Radiation
10 CFR 60
10 CFR Part 835 Radiological Protection for Occupational Workers
2.3 Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM), Nureg-1575, Rev 1, EPA 402-R-97-016, Rev 1,
DOE/EH-0624, Rev 1
ANSI/HPS N13.12 Surface and Volume Radioactivity—Standards for Clearance
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 For definitions of general technical terms used within this practice refer to Terminology D653.
3.2 General Definitions Used in This Practice
3.2.1 as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA)—a process used for radiation protection to manage and control exposures (both
individual and collective to the work force and to the general public) and releases of radioactive materials to the environment so
that the levels are as low as is reasonable taking into account social, technical, economic, practical, and public policy consideration
(from ANSI/HPS N13.12).
3.2.2 contamination—either fixed or removable radioactive materials in or on an item where it is not wanted.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Available from Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
3.2.2.1 Discussion—
Radioactive materials in a glovebox, for example, are not contamination.
3.2.3 mixed wastes—wastes containing both radioactivity (as defined by the United States Atomic Energy Act of 1954 as
amended) and quantities of United States Environmental Protection Agency Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
listed wastes.
3.2.4 radioactive waste—waste containing radioactive elements or activation of negligible economic value, considering the cost
of recovery or use.
3.3 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 as low as reasonable achievable (ALARA)—an approach to radiological control to manage exposures to the work force
and to the general public at levels as low as is reasonable, taking into account social, technical, economic, practical and public
policy. ALARA has the objective of maintaining doses at a level far below applicable controlling limits.
3.3.1 barrier—controlled area—a physical separation, such as a fence, wall, or temporary enclosure to prevent uncontrolled
access and release from an area.an area to which access is physically limited in order to protect individuals from exposure to
radiation, contamination, hazardous materials or other hazards.
3.3.1.1 Discussion—
Controlled areas are intended to prevent the inadvertent access by establishing a boundary (fencing, walls, or other natural
features). Exit from a controlled area may be controlled to prevent the spreading of contamination by decontamination processes
(known as a decontamination path or zone) prior to personnel or equipment moving to the support zone.
3.1.3 contamination—either fixed or removable radioactive materials in or on an item.
D5608 − 16
3.1.4 contamination reduction corridor—a defined pathway through a hazardous waste site where decontamination occurs.
3.3.2 decontamination—the process of removing or reducing to a known level undesirable physical, chemical, or radiological
constituents from equipment. Decontamination of sample contacting equipment maximizes the representativeness of the physical,
chemical, or radioactive analyses proposed for a given sample.
3.3.2.1 Discussion—
Decontamination of sample contacting equipment maximizes the representativeness of the physical, chemical, or radioactive
analyses proposed for a given sample.
3.1.6 fixed contamination—radioactive material that cannot be readily removed from surfaces by nondestructive means, such as
casual contact, wiping, brushing, or washing.
3.1.7 inorganic desorbing agents—acid rinse solutions, typically of 10 % nitric or hydrochloric acid solutions made from
reagent grade nitric or hydrochloric acid and deionized water (1 % should be applied to low-carbon steel equipment). The
desorbing agent may include dilute sodium hydroxide.
3.1.8 mixed wastes—wastes containing both radioactivity (as defined by the United States Atomic Energy Act of 1954 as
amended) and quantities of United States Environmental Protection Agency Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
listed wastes.
3.3.3 non-contacting equipment—equipment used in and around the sampling that may become contaminated, but that does not
contact the sample at anytime. Examples would include drilling rigs, hand tools, drill rods, excavation equipment, or barrier
materials.
3.3.3.1 Discussion—
Examples would include drilling rigs, hand tools, drill rods, excavation equipment, or barrier materials.
3.3.4 organic desorbing agents—solvent rinse solutions of such as isopropanol, acetone, hexane, or methanol.
3.3.5 QC water (control rinse water)—water having a known chemistry, free (below detection levels) of organic or radiological
constituents. Deionized water of reagent grade is normally sufficient.
3.3.5.1 Discussion—
Deionized water of reagent grade is normally sufficient, such as ASTM D1193, Type IV.
3.1.12 radioactive waste—waste containing radioactive elements or activation of negligible economic value, considering the
cost of recovery or use. Waste can generally be classified into three levels, all of which are harmful. The classifications are:
3.1.12.1 low level waste—wastes usually containing small amounts of radioactivity in a large amount of material. Typically the
radioactivity decays in a relatively short period of time, within 500 years, although some low level wastes may remain radioactive
for much longer periods. Low level radioactive wastes are those that are not high or mid level wastes. Examples of low level wastes
are uranium mining and mill tailings, soils, equipment, sludges, or liquids contaminated with or mixed with radioactive materials.
Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) also fall into this classification. Typical examples of NORM low level wastes
include uranium and thorium bearing sludges from water purification plants, high grade uranium ores, and petroleum pipeline
sludges.
3.1.12.2 mid level (transuranic) wastes—wastes containing contamination with radioactive man-made elements having atomic
weights greater than uranium (hence the name trans (or beyond) uranic). Examples of mid level wastes include liquids, sludges,
resins, or soils and equipment contaminated or mixed with plutonium or other man-made alpha emitting radionuclides.
3.1.12.3 high level wastes—wastes of highly concentrated radionuclides with long half-lives. Examples of high level wastes
include spent nuclear fuels, nuclear fuel reprocessing wastes, syrups, and resins.
3.1.13 radiological control technician (RCT)—Individuals who protect people and the environment from the unwanted effects
of radiation through the principles of time, distance, and shielding. Also referred to by other titles including Radiation Safety
Technicians, Health Physics Technician, Radiation Protection Technicians.
3.1.14 removable contamination—radioactive material that can be removed from surfaces by nondestructive means, such as
brushing, wiping, or washing.
3.3.6 rinse water—water having a known chemistry. Deionized or distilled water may be used when small quantities are
required. When large quantities are required, potable water of a chemistry known to be free (below detection levels) of radioactive
or chemical constituents can be used.
D5608 − 16
3.3.6.1 Discussion—
Deionized or distilled water may be used when small quantities are required. When large quantities are required, potable water of
a chemistry known to be free (below detection levels) of radioactive or chemical constituents can be used.
3.3.7 sample contacting equipment—equipment and tools that physically come in contact with a sample and that could allow
cross-contamination from one sample to another. Examples include drive cylinders, bailers, sample handling, equipment, pumps,
and sampling tubes.
3.3.7.1 Discussion—
Examples include drive cylinders, bailers, sample handling, equipment, pumps, and sampling tubes.
3.3.8 survey—a radiationradioactivity measurement with instrumentation to evaluate and assess the presence of radioactive
materials or other sources of radiationradioactivity under a specific set of conditions, (also known as frisking).conditions.
3.3.8.1 Discussion—
Also known as frisking.
3.1.18 unrestricted release limit—the maximum contamination that an item may exhibit to be released for uncontrolled use by
the public. Release limits differ, based on the type of radioactive materials and the amount and type of emissions (gamma, alpha,
beta).
3.3.9 wipe test—a radiation detection test performed to determine the amount of removable radioactive material per 100 cm
surface area by wiping with a dry filter or soft absorbent paper with moderate pressure and then assessing the amount of
radioactivity with an instrument of appropriate efficiency. A radiological survey and a wipe test is generally required for release
of any equipment from a radiological area to an uncontrolled area or for unrestricted use, (also known as swipe test).
3.3.9.1 Discussion—
A radiological survey and a wipe test is generally required for release of equipment from a radiological area to an uncontrolled
area or for unrestricted use, (also known as swipe test).
3.3.10 remediation control survey—a type of survey that monitors the progress of remedial action by real-time measurement of
areas being decontaminated to determine if efforts are effective and to guide further decontamination activities.
3.2 All other terms and definitions are in accordance with Terminology D653.
4. Summary of Practice
4.1 This practice provides guidance and details for the development of a site and sampling event specific decontamination plan
for use in the decontamination of field equipment used during sampling or other activities in areas known, or suspected of
containing low-level radioactive wastes. Four techniques or methods are provided, with the selection and use based on the type
of contamination and the difficulty of removal.
4.2 Planning should include an evaluation of the costs of the decontamination process, including personnel exposures, waste
disposal, personnel time, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other costs versus the use of less hazardous materials for
decontamination, or avoidance of decontamination by the use of dedicated equipment, or the use of disposable equipment.
4.3 Approaches and procedures are provided for decontamination of two classifications of equipment, sample-contacting and
non-contacting.
4.4 This practice includes the principles of ALARA and waste minimization as well as the protection of sample data quality.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 The primary objectives of work at low-level radioactive waste sites are the protection of personnel, prevention of the spread
of contamination, minimization of additional wastes, protection of sample data quality, and the unconditional release of equipment
used.
5.2 Preventing the contamination of equipment used at low-level radioactive waste sites and the decontamination of
contaminated equipment are key aspects of achieving these goals.
5.3 This practice provides guidance in the planning of work to prevent contamination and when necessary, for the
decontamination of equipment that has become contaminated. The benefits include:
5.3.1 Minimizing the spread of contamination within a site and preventing the spread outside of the work area.
D5608 − 16
5.3.2 Reducing the potential exposure of workers during the work and the subsequent decontamination of equipment.
5.3.3 Minimizing the amounts of additional wastes generated during the work, including liquid, or mixed wastes, including
separation of the waste types, such as protective clothing, cleaning equipment, cleaning solutions, and protective wraps and drapes.
5.3.4 Improving the quality of sample data and reliability.
5.3.5 Selecting equipment based on total life-cycle costs counting labor, waste, containment, disposal, treatment, and additional
analytical costs, such as using dedicated or disposable equipment rather than decontaminating between uses.
5.4 This practice may not be applicable to all low-level radioactive waste sites, such as sites containing low-level radioactive
wastes mixed with chemical or reactive wastes. Field personnel, with assistance from trained radiological control professionals,
should have the flexibility to modify the decontamination procedures with due consideration for the sampling objectives, or if past
experience supports alternative procedures for contamination protection or decontamination.
5.5 This practice does not address the monitoring, protection, or decontamination of personnel working with low-level
radioactive wastes.
5.6 This practice does not address regulatory requirements that may control or restrict work, the need for permits or regulatory
approvals, or the accumulation, handling, or disposal of generated wastes.
5.7 This practice does not set the release levels for equipment that has been decontaminated. Release levels are to be determined
in advance in the QA/QC planning process. Guidance for release limits can be found in the reference documents.
5.8 This practice does not address the regulatory requirements for the handling, labeling, shipping, or storage of wastes or
samples.
5.9 The decontamination process should be planned to use the least aggressive methods and materials to be used to minimize
the generation of additional wastes while resulting in an acceptable decontamination while minimizing the generation of wastes.
Studies have found that the use of chemicals can often be avoided, using pressure washes, steam cleaning, or the use of applied
heat.
5.10 The practice of performing remediation control surveys can decrease the effort required to achieve decontamination release
levels.
6. Hazards
6.1 Equipment decontamination activities involving radioactive constituents provide numerous opportunities for personnel
contamination and radiation exposure, the uncontrolled spread of contamination, and the unnecessary generation of additional
radioactive or mixed wastes.
6.2 Personnel involved in the decontamination of field equipment used in a known or suspected radiologically contaminated site
must be trained and qualified in the work being performed and in emergency procedures.
6.3 Any work Work performed in a known or suspected radiologically contaminated site should be under the continuous control
of a trained Radiological Control Technician.Technician (also known by other titles including Radiation Safety Technicians, Health
Physics Technician, or Radiation Protection Technicians).
6.4 Strict controls around the work area must be maintained at all times to prevent the access or egress of personnel, equipment,
or samples to prevent unnecessary exposure, uncontrolled releases of contaminated equipment or personnel, and unnecessary
contamination of equipment. The controls will include barriers, such as fences, temporary building, or other enclosures to prevent
access or egress without proper monitoring and decontamination.
6.5 Personnel working in a radiologically contaminated area have the potential for receiving radiation exposure as well as
internal and external contamination. Personnel shallshould be trained to thea Site Specific Health and Safety Plan Plan, radiation
safety and other required training, such as hazardous waste worker training, which specifies the required training, personnel
protection, and dosimetry equipment required.
6.6 Some decontamination solutions may be hazardous to humans, or may be incompatible with personal protective clothing
normally worn. For example, organic solvents or acids may permeate or degrade protective clothing or equipment. Protective
clothing worn during decontamination should be selected for wet work involving the specific chemicals and solutions to be used.
6.7 Chemicals and solutions used during decontamination may be hazardous. Personnel involved should be properly trained and
provided with Material trained, have the appropriate PPE and respiratory protection, and have the appropriate first aid and response
equipment. Personnel should be provided with Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), and the appropriate emergency equipment.(SDSs) for
the solutions or chemicals to be used. The shipping and handling of these materials may be regulated. Some of these materials are
hazardous themselves and when used for decontamination will generate larger amounts of hazardous or mixed wastes that must
be collected, containerized, stored, labeled, shipped, and disposed.
6.8 Some equipment will degrade or produce deleterious reactions when in contact with decontamination solutions. Equipment
and decontamination solution compatibility and resistance should be considered when selecting equipment and the decontami-
nation procedure.
D5608 − 16
6.9 Decontamination methods may be incompatible with hazardous substances being removed and cause reactions that produce
heat, toxic fumes, or explosions. The potential for incompatible material reactions should be evaluated as a part of the
decontamination process selection.
6.10 The use of steam or high pressure washers will expose personnel to the hazards of operation. Manufacturer’s operating
literature or manuals typically contain safety precautions for the use of the equipment and must be followed.
7. General Procedures
7.1 Adequate planning is required prior to any activity in an area known or suspected to contain low-level radioactive or other
wastes and contamination. The development of an equipment decontamination plan should be a part of the activity planning. All
personnel involved in the work should be familiar with the plan and trained in the specific decontamination procedures. Work and
decontamination planning should include the following:
7.1.1 The site location, conditions, known areas of surface and subsurface contamination.
7.1.2 The type, activity level, potential locations of mixed, chemical, or reactive contamination or wastes,
7.1.3 The location of other physical hazards, such as underground utilities, overhead powerlines, and existing waste storage
locations.
7.1.4 Emergency responses plans, including emergency decontamination of personnel or equipment, site evacuation and
accountability, and response to fire, explosion, or other situations that may occur.
7.1.5 Equipment required to prevent contamination, decontaminate equipment, contain spills, or store contaminated equipment.
7.1.6 Adequacy of monitoring and safety personnel and equipment for the anticipated work, during both normal or emergency
conditions,
7.1.7 Assignment of responsibilities, including defining responsibilities for safety, quality, and the work processes being
planned.
7.1.8 Establishing the work control area barriers, signage, and controls for personnel, tools, and equipment entering the work
area, and the contamination release limits that will be required for equipment, samples, tools, personnel, and wastes to be released
from the control area. Personnel and equipment access and release log requirements should be considered, along with requirements
for various types of work control permits,
7.1.9 Establishing the decontamination location(s) for the various tools, equipment, samples and personnel equipment,
including contamination reduction corridors and decontamination pads for large equipment such as backhoes, drilling rigs, or
trucks and vehicles. The benefits of decontaminating equipment near the point of use should be weighed against the risks of
transporting equipment to a central decontamination location and potentially spreading contamination.
7.1.10 EstablishEstablishing a waste disposal plan for how the anticipated wastes will be stored, both temporarily and
long-term, the anticipated means of disposal, storage, labeling, or manifesting, and the organizations and individuals who will be
responsible. Evaluation of the need for, and benefits of the work or samples should be balanced against the costs and difficulty of
handling the wastes that may be generated prior to performing any work.
7.1.11 Providing personnel and equipment resources for environmental monitoring requirements. These may include air
monitoring or controls for airborne or windblown contamination, surface runoff controls, or other specific weather work
restrictions, such as restricting or stopping work during or before expected windy or wet conditions.
7.1.12 Responsibilities and sequencing for the decontamination and removal of equipment and personnel, removal of barriers,
storage of both solid and liquid wastes, and the return of the site to a pre-work condition.
7.1.13 Establishing the contamination levels that are acceptable for free release, or transfer to other contamination areas with
controls. Regulations and other guides such as the MARSSIM provide requirements and guidance. Additional decontamination
efforts should be employed only as needed to achieve the QA/QC objectives.
7.1.14 Identifying the records that will be required and assigning responsibilities for the completion, review, protection, and
retention of records that will be generated during the work, including decontamination. Typical records include (but are not limited
to): records of the survey equipment, survey equipment calibration and operational checks, process and effluent monitoring,
environmental monitoring, tool and waste monitoring equipment, types and amounts of waste generated, sample identification and
analyses that can be used to characterize the wastes.
7.2 Waste minimization should be an integral part of the planning and work processes. The following waste minimization
considerations should be factored into the work planning process:
7.2.1 Preventing the spread of contamination by sequencing work from the least contaminated to the most contaminated areas.
7.2.2 Maintaining a high level of site housekeeping and cleanliness.
7.2.3 Selecting materials and equipment that are easily cleaned and decontaminated for use within a contaminated area.
Generally, these are hard, nonporous materials, or materials with protective coatings or paints. Prohibit the use of soft, or porous
materials. The use of greases,
...