TM-9-2350-311-20-1 Maintenance Manual for Volume 1 M109 Hull Download
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TM 9-2350-311-20-1 RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL(S) TRITIUM (HYDROGEN-3) GAS Handle with care. In the event the radioluminous source is broken, cracked, or there is no illumination, immediately wrap device in plastic bag (item 10, Appx D) and notify the local Radiation Protection Officer (RPO). Contact the base safety office for the name and telephone number of your local RPO: LOCAL RPO: TELEPHONE: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. SAFETY PROCEDURES FOR NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION (NRC) TRITIUM FIRE CONTROL DEVICES Purpose: To implement mandatory license requirements for use and maintenance of tritium radioluminous fire control devices used on howitzers, mortars, tanks, and riles. Scope: This procedure is applicable to all personnel working with tritium devices, including unit, direct support, general support maintenance, and operator’s levels. Radiological hazard: The beta radiation emitted by tritium presents no external radiation hazard. However, if taken internally, it can damage soft tissue. If a capsule is broken, the tritium gas will dissipate into the surrounding air and surfaces near the vicinity of the break may become contaminated. Tritium can be taken into the body by inhalation, ingestion, or percutaneous (skin) absorption/injection. Safety precautions: a. Check for illumination prior to use or service in low light or darkroom. If not illuminated, do not repair. Wrap the entire device in plastic bag (item 10, Appx D) and notify the local RPO. b. No eating, drinking, or smoking will be allowed in tritium device work areas. Emergency procedures: If a tritium source breaks, inform other personnel to vacate the area or move upwind. If skin contact is made with any area contaminated with tritium, wash immediately with nonabrasive soap and water. Report the incident to the local RPO. Actions below will be taken under supervision or direction of the local RPO. a. Personnel handling the device should wear rubber or latex gloves (item 23, Appx D). Device must be immediately double wrapped in plastic, sealed, packaged, and evacuated to depot. Outside package must be identified as ‘Broken Tritium Device - Do Not Open”. Dispose of used gloves as radioactive waste, per instructions from local RPO and wash hands well. b. Personnel who may have handled the broken tritium should report to health clinic for tritium bioassay. Optimum bioassay sample is at least 4 hours after exposure. c. Broken tritium sources indoors may result in tritium contamination in the area, such as work bench or table. The area must be cordoned off, restricted until wipe tests indicate no contamination. WARNING a