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Lead is used
as a primary shielding material for gamma emitting radionuclides
such as I-125 and Cr-51. Lead is also used as
a secondary shielding material for high energy beta
and beta/gamma emitting radionuclides such as P-32 and
Rb-86 (remember to use lucite as the primary shield).
When lead is no longer required for shielding purposes,
it must be recycled appropriately. If not recycled,
lead is considered a hazardous waste.
Lead Disposal Procedure:
- Empty
the lead container of any vials or material.
Remove any plastic housing or sheathing from lead
containers.
- Wipe all
interior and exterior surfaces of the lead container
and count the samples in a liquid scintillation counter.
Review wipe test results:
- If
wipe tests are < 100 dpm - continue with procedure.
- If
wipe test results are > 100 dpm - contact REHS
for assistance.
- Meter
survey all surfaces of the lead container with the
appropriate detector. Use a GM detector for
beta and beta/gamma emitting radionuclides; a typical
background reading will be 20 to 40 cpm.
Use a NaI probe for gamma emitting radionuclides;
a typical background reading will be 200 to 300 cpm.
Review survey results:
- Meter
survey results are < background – continue with
procedure.
- Meter
survey results > background – contact REHS for assistance.
- Remove
any radioactive material tape and thoroughly deface
any appearance of the word radioactive or the radiation
symbol.
Remember to
wear gloves when handling potentially contaminated items
and wash your hands thoroughly after handling lead materials.
Contact REHS at any time if you are unsure about the procedure
or require assistance.
For pick-up of lead, please following the directions below based on the building you are in:
If you are in a Rutgers building, enter your request online “here”. Please call REHS at 732-445-2550 or email Greg Drusjack if you have any questions regarding lead pick-up in a Rutgers building.
If you are in a UMDNJ building (including CABM), enter your request online “here”. Please call EOHSS at 973-972-4812 or email Kyle SanGiovanni if you have any questions regarding lead pick-up in a UMDNJ building.
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