The Role of Personal Protective Equipment For Radiological Dose Control T Bain Arnhem 2003

Objectives Share BNFL experience of PPE usage Demonstrate effectiveness of PPE Discuss standards and expectations of PPE

Operational Challenges Routine operational activities Decommissioning redundant facilities New challenges

Personnel Protection Hierarchy of control Radiation protection systems Biological screening PPE contribution

PPE Expectations Functional and fit for purpose Protects Meets operational requirements Protects , Cost effective Complies with standards Meets relevant standards Acceptable to the wearer Comfortable , Safe

PPE For Radiological Protection

PPE - Usage

Selection of PPE - Industry Model Workplace Assessment - Analysis NRPB Re-suspension models Historical information Little data assume pessimism Specification of PPE- ALARP

Selection of PPE - Regulatory Model Workplace Assessment Derives Workplace Protection Required Derives Selection of effective PPE

Application of Air-fed Suits Suits for Respiratory & Dermal Protection RPE of choice for maximum challenge Dedicated Safety Department Variety of suits for BNFL operations

Indicators of Suit Protection EN 1073/1 Standard performance data Successful application in operations From biological health surveillance Suit wearers have confidence

Non-ventilated Protective Suits Most suits meet the standard - EN 1073/2 Workplace Applications Workplace Compatibility Standards versus Functionality

Respiratory Protective Equipment Applications Role in personnel protection Protection Factors Requirement for fit testing

Respirator Fit Testing Training opportunity Respirator fit assurance

Half-mask for Dose Reduction

Reassurance of protection No measurable contamination inside PPE No measurable contamination by nose blow or facial swabs Biological / in vivo sampling indicates no significant chronic uptake Reassurance from Standards & Test Houses

Standards & Guidance - Old Nominal Protection Factors PPE manufacturers guidance PPE selected on operational (historical) experience Radiological hazards partially addressed by regulators

New Standards and Guidance UK - HSG 53 Assigned Protection Factors Requirements for Respirator Fit Testing European - EN 529 Wider European introduction PPE Quality Standards EN 1073/1 & EN 1073/2

Complying with New Standards Standards esoteric - based on laboratory testing Manufacturers PPE - designs to pass tests PPE practicality and workplace functionality can be impaired Regulators have new expectations o f our industry Transition to new equipment and standards

Factors Driving PPE Developments New technology materials available Changing operational requirements BNFL have a PPE Improvement Policy Users, operators, regulators seek higher protection - ALARA

Expanding Suit Range Versatility: Protective skin concept Improved Ergonomics: Functionality /human factors Technology Advancements High air delivery systems

Summary PPE use at Sellafield is supported by robust safety regimes BNFL are able to demonstrate the protection of employees Significant contribution from PPE for personnel dose reduction Realistic Standard setting and application is essential

THE FUTURE