REMOVAL & DISPOSAL OF LIQUID SCINTILLATION COUNTERS

This information sheet outlines the procedure for the removal and disposal of scintillation counters from the University that are surplus to requirements.

Many scintillation counters currently stored in the University incorporate an internal radioactive reference source.

The aim of this procedure is to implement a process to ensure that radioactive sources are removed from old equipment prior to their disposal as general waste.

This procedure specifically applies to older scintillation counting equipment, purchased prior to the adoption of the University’s Policy & Procedures in October 2006. Equipment purchased after this time should have the disposal path identified as part of the initial risk assessment and purchase agreement.

Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of the Chief Investigator [CI] to make arrangements for the removal of internal radioactive reference sources from surplus scintillation counting equipment prior to disposal.

In cases where the CI has left the University the Head of the Department must make these arrangements.

Sources

The internal radioactive sources found in scintillation counters cannot be disposed of as general waste and in general cannot be disposed of as Hazardous waste.

When scintillation counters have past their useful working life and are surplus to requirements any internal radioactive source must be removed before the counter can be disposed of.

A record of the scintillation counters that we have disposed of must be kept.

Details of the counter should be recorded in Attachment 1.

Counters containing reference sources usually display the radiation warning sign on the rear of the unit. However if no radiation sign is present this is not sufficient to assume that there is no source present. Further investigation and confirmation is required.

Procedure

The chief investigator or laboratory manager must either:

  • Visually inspect inside of the counter to confirm that no source is present – sources are contained in a lead pot [usually painted yellow] and should be labelled with a radiation sign OR
  • Seek written confirmation from the service company that the counter model does not contain a source

Where a radioactive reference source is incorporated in the counter the following steps must be taken.

  • Contact the instrument service company and arrange for removal of the reference source.
  • Arrange for the source to be returned to the manufacturer through the service company if this option is available.
  • If no “return to manufacturer” option is available, the source must be removed from the counter and placed into long term storage.

Where no service company is available for a scintillation counter, contact the University Radiation Safety Officer for advice on how to proceed.

When the source has been removed from the counter, the Chief Investigator or laboratory manager should complete the Clearance Declaration below and forward it together with Attachment 1 to the University Radiation Safety Officer.

CLEARANCE FOR DISPOSAL OF LIQUID SCINTILLATION COUNTER

Clearance

The scintillation counter as described in Attachment 1 was inspected and was found to:

  • Not to contain a radioactive source OR
  • Had the radioactive source removed

The equipment is able to be disposed of as general waste.

Chief Investigator/Laboratory Manager:
{insert name} / University Radiation Safety Officer:
Felix Werner / Report Date: /

ATTACHMENT 1

SCINTILLATION COUNTER DETAILS

Manufacturer:

Model No:

Serial No:

Laboratory:

Department:

Building:

Radioactive source:

Date of disposal:

WHS_RAD_INF_1_Scintillation counterThe University of SydneyPage 1 of 3