NETL

NETL-1 NETL SHOP USE

I. PURPOSE

This document details the procedures for use of the NETL Shop Facilities including power and machine tools.

II. DISCUSSION

Operation and safety procedures are required in all facilities to establish efficient work practices while providing for the protection of both personnel and equipment. Based on this criterion specific procedures were developed for use of the mechanical shop, power tools, machine tools, and the electronic shop.

III. REFERENCE

  1. Mechanical Engineering Department machine shop safety procedure

IV. CONTENTS

V. INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Review the instructions in the applicable section. Prior to the use of any of the shop facilities you must sign the attached Facility Use Agreement acknowledging your agreement to follow these instructions.

    1. Prior to operating any power hand tools or machine tools (lathe, mill, drill press, etc.) for the first time, you must demonstrate sufficient familiarity with the equipment and obtain written permission on the attached Equipment/Tool Use Authorization form from the Manager of Operations and Maintenance (O&M).

    2. Prior to using any of the electronics repair or test equipment in the shop for the first time, you must demonstrate sufficient familiarity with the equipment and obtain written permission on the attached Equipment/Tool Use Authorization form from the Manager of O&M.

  2. Lock the shop door whenever you leave the shop area.

  3. Report any accident, injury, or equipment/tool failure to the Manager of O&M.

A. Mechanical Shop Use

  1. A second person who can render aid or assistance must be in the shop area (rooms off corridor 2.200 within earshot) at all times when machine tools are operated.

  2. Eye protection (safety glasses, goggles, or a face shield) must be worn at all times while operating equipment which may generate flying debris.

  3. Wear full-length slacks or trousers and closed-toe shoes. No loose clothing (unbuttoned sleeves, ties, loose skirts), jewelry (necklaces, bracelets, rings), etc. Long hair must be tied back.

  4. Never sit down while running a machine. Machines must not be left unattended.

  5. Never leave wrenches in machine chucks. All files used on lathes must have wood handles. Only short pieces of abrasive paper may be used on the lathe.

  6. Machining of radioactive materials is not permitted unless authorized by an RWP.

  7. Flammable materials used in the shop shall be limited to containers no larger than one gallon and shall be stored in a metal closed-door cabinet.

  8. Spray painting shall not be done inside the building unless authorized by the Manager of O&M.

  9. Document the use of all expendable supplies and shop stock items in the Shop Supplies Log. This includes items you take from the shop and packaged items like tape, solvents, etc.

  10. Return all tools to normal storage locations and clean up your area at the end of the day. All supplies should be returned to their labeled location. If the shop floor has debris, clean the floor before it spreads.

B. Electronics Shop Use

  1. Use caution when working with line voltage or high voltage—it can be lethal. A second person who can render aid should be nearby when working on “hot” (powered-on) equipment.

  2. Tag any equipment identified as non-functional; note your name, the date, and the issue.

  3. Document the use of all expendable supplies and shop stock items in the Shop Supplies Log. Include items not returned and packaged items like tape, solvents, etc.

  4. Electronic test equipment must be returned at the end of the day and stored on the labeled shelf in the front of the shop. This includes digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, wave generators, electrometers, etc.

  5. Reactor systems test equipment (marked “RX”) is not shop test equipment and should only be used for reactor work. Stored on labeled shelf in Control Room Closet 3.208B.

  6. Return all tools and electronic equipment to normal storage and clean up your area. Any item not returned must be logged on the equipment checkout list.

NETL-2 OPEN FLAME USE

I. PURPOSE

This document details the procedures for use of open flame devices in the NETL Facility.

II. DISCUSSION

Operation and safety procedures are required in all facilities to establish efficient work practices while providing for the protection of both personnel and equipment. Based on these criteria, specific procedures were developed for the use of open flame devices within the NETL building. The procedure is designed to minimize false fire alarms, prevent fire ignition from open flame devices, and provide notifications of hazardous activities.

This procedure does not authorize any work that may involve radioactive materials. An RWP is required for work with radioactive materials.

III. REFERENCE

None

IV. CONTENTS

Open Flame Use

V. INSTRUCTIONS

The use of welding equipment and cutting torches in any area of the building is subject to all the restrictions of this procedure. The use of Bunsen burners in laboratory areas is also subject to the following rules:

  1. Request approval to perform the activity involving open flame from the Manager of Operations and Maintenance. Bunsen burner applications in fume hoods may also be authorized by the Manager of Nuclear Analytical Services.

  2. Identify the location and types of fire protection system sensors (smoke or heat) in the area where the activity is planned. Remember that there are also smoke detectors in the ventilation system ducts.

  3. Review the possible response of the building fire protection system to the open flame and the potential production of smoke. If necessary, U.T. Physical Plant Automated Systems personnel can secure one of the fire protection system zones to prevent an alarm during the planned activity.

  4. Notify the Emergency Director, NETL Director, or Reactor Supervisor prior to the initiation of any open flame activity. One person other than the person approving the work should be aware of the time and location of the planned activities.

  5. Remove all moveable combustible materials from the immediate area in which the open flame will be used.

  6. Note the location of the nearest fire extinguisher. Verify that it is charged and the appropriate type for use in extinguishing combustibles present in the area.

  7. A person on the NETL staff must continuously be present and ready to take any corrective actions warranted while a flame is burning. No flame should be left unattended.

  8. After the activity is complete, make sure no smoldering materials remain and return all conditions including fire protection system status to normal.

NETL-3 Liquid Radiactive Waste System

I. PURPOSE

To specify the requirements for operation of the Liquid Radioactive Waste (LW) system.

II. DISCUSSION

The LW system is used to collect and store radioactive waste from two laboratory sinks, the safety shower, and the eyewash. This procedure specifies the requirements and operation of the system to ensure its safe and proper use.

The normal input points to the system are the laboratory counter sinks in rooms 3.102 and 3.106. Drainage of the safety shower and eyewash, both located in the adjacent hallway, is into a holding tank (100 gallons), which may drain into the system if an emergency requires holding of the shower and eyewash wastewater for analysis.

Discharges from the system cannot be directed to the sanitary waste system until a temporary spoolpiece is installed. Analysis of any tank contents is necessary prior to connection to the sanitary wastewater system.

III. REFERENCES

The University of Texas, “Manual of Radiation Safety”, Latest Revision
Title 10CFR20, “Standards for Protection Against Radiation”

IV. PROCEDURE

A. Normal Operation

  1. Perform a valve lineup for normal operation in accordance with Attachment A. The system is now ready for normal operaiton.

  2. A Radiation Work Permit (RWP) must be completed prior to using either of the LW system sinks. These sinks are located in Rooms 3.102 and 3.106.

  3. Tank 3 is the normal tank for low-level liquids. Tank 2 is the backup for tank 3, and Tank 1 is only used for high level radioactive liquid.

  4. Attachment B is to be filled out and signed before any tank draining or backup use is begun.

B. Tank Changeover - Tank 2 to Tank 3

Note: Refer to Diagram 1 “System Diagram” for valve numbering key.

1. Check open: LW x01(2), LW x02(3)
2. Open: LW x2(2)
3. Check closed: LW x1(2)
4. Open: LW x0(2)
5. Close: LW x0(3), LW x1(3), LW x2(3)

C. Tank Recirculation and Sampling

Note: This evolution requires a RWP to be written prior to performance.

1. Check closed: LW x00, LW x03
2. Remove threaded plugs downstream of LW x00 and LW x03.
Connect tygon recirculation rig using teflon tape.
3. Thread hose so suction draws from LW x00
4. Close LW x0, open LW x03
5. Open LW x00 and start pump; check for leaks
6. After sufficient recirculation, turn off pump and purge ≥100 mL
7. Collect sample and analyze
8. To secure recirculation: close LW x03 and LW x00
9. Remove tygon rig from pump and fittings
10. Drain tygon rig as needed
11. Remove tygon rig from LW x00
12. Close LW x2

D. Tank Draining

Note: The draining process may require a RWP to be written prior to performance. Attachment B must be completed prior to performing this process.

1. Close LW x0 and LW x1; check open LW x2 and closed LW5
2. Remove threaded cap from LW5 stub and connect tygon drain with teflon tape
3. Thread tygon hose so suction is from LW5
4. Secure loose end of hose to radwaste receptacle or sump
5. Open LW x1 and LW5, then start pump
6. When drained, stop pump and close LW5 and LW x1
7. Remove tygon tube from pump and drain stub
8. Close LW x2

E. Radwaste Sinks

  1. The radwaste sinks in 3.102 and 3.106 shall not be used without a RWP.

F. Emergency Shower/Eyewash

  1. The emergency shower and eyewash are primarily designated for personnel who have had an accident or spill of chemicals that is causing severe physical distress. Under most circumstances, personnel who spill radioactive materials should not immediately utilize the shower for decontamination. In the event personnel contamination, the Health Physicist should be notified immediately.

  2. The emergency shower and eyewash drain to a 100 gallon holding tank located in 2.112.

  3. To drain the 100 gallon tank:

    1. Identify, if possible, the primary chemical or radionuclide that is in the tank.

    2. Open LW3. Slowly crack open LW400 to obtain a sample.

    3. Close LW 400 and LW 3.

    4. Analyze the sample as appropriate. Determine which radwaste tank will be used and perform the appropriate tank changeover.

    5. Open LW1. When the 100 gal tank is drained, close LW1.

    6. Open LW3. Place a container under LW 400 (rad or chemical waste) to collect the discharge.

    7. Open LW 400 to drain the sample line. Close LW 400 and LW3. Dispose of the collected liquid as appropriate (rad or chemical waste).

NETL-5 Specialized Work Permit

I. INTRODUCTION

A. PURPOSE

This procedure identifies and defines the general requirements for, and administration of, Specialized Work Permits (SWP) for the Nuclear Engineering Teaching Laboratory (NETL).

B. DESCRIPTION

The Specialized Work Permit is an administrative control used at the NETL which is implemented to control special processes or experiments. The purpose is to protect both unique NETL equipment and/or experiment systems from damage resulting from improper use and to protect facility users including faculty, staff, students, and visitors from potential personal hazards including physical injury or radiation exposures above established ALARA levels. A SWP is issued for situations where there is a specific procedure or process that must be learned and understood by users to safely conduct the work.

The SWP establishes the framework for safely and effectively managing special work processes at NETL. It includes sections for approval of trained individuals, a set of procedural instructions listing key steps, and must be kept in the area where work or experiments are performed for reference.

C. SCHEDULE

Apply daily as necessary for execution of special processes or experiments. Review and retrain users or revise procedures based on lessons learned.

D. CONTENTS and Attachments

E. EQUIPMENT and Materials

As specified in each established SWP

F. REFERENCES and Documents

  1. NETL HP Procedures as required

  2. Procedure ADMN 6, Authorization of Experiments

  3. Applicable approved Experiment Authorizations

II. PROCEDURE

A. Requirements for Issue

A SWP must be established to work under the following conditions:

  1. Approved Experiments requiring or referring to a SWP.

  2. Approved Experiments initially requiring an RWP, where the ALARA Committee approves conversion to a SWP.

  3. Other processes as specified by the Reactor Supervisor, Lab Manager, or Health Physicist.

B. SWPs for Proposed or Approved Experiments

Procedure ADMN 6 describes the process for experiment authorization. If a proposed experiment requires a SWP, a draft should be completed and submitted. If initially an RWP was used and the process is well-characterized, it may be converted to a SWP with ALARA Committee approval. This change must be reported to the Reactor Oversight Committee.

C. Administration

  1. The individual in charge of the activity or task is responsible for requesting a new SWP and should complete sections A through D of the SWP. Discussion of the task with the Reactor Supervisor, Laboratory Manager, and if appropriate the Health Physicist should occur during this phase.

  2. The proposed SWP along with an attached work procedure is submitted to the Reactor Supervisor and Lab Manager for review and approval. If the Proposed SWP is to replace a RWP then the proposed SWP is also reviewed by the ALARA Committee. The Facility Director shall be the designated member of the ALARA Committee to sign the SWP approval. If the radiation levels and exposures associated with the work are anticipated to be higher than the thresholds specified for an RWP then an RWP may be required instead of an SWP.

  3. The SWP is assigned a SWP number or letter designation and placed in a conspicuous folder. The initial list of individuals authorized to work under the SWP is designated at the time of initial issue.

  4. The approved SWP including any revisions to the work procedure is returned to the initiator who signs the SWP Briefing Log to indicate acknowledgement of the work conditions and requirements. The initiator then shall place the SWP folder in or near the area where the work described is to be carried out.

  5. SWPs are normally issued for an unspecified time period and do not expire unless the work covered by the SWP is permanently discontinued. Revisions and updates to a SWP and associated procedure will be made based on experience and lessons learned.

  6. The person in charge of the work (SWP initiator) is responsible for ensuring that all personnel who will be working under the SWP have received appropriate training for the prescribed work process and have read and signed the SWP.

  7. All personnel who work under an SWP shall read the SWP and indicate acceptance and understanding of the conditions by signing the SWP. Individuals working under a SWP shall notify personnel in adjacent areas of potential hazards of the work and enforce the requirements of the SWP. Note: Failure to follow the provisions of an SWP will result in withdrawal of SWP work privileges.

  8. Each person who works under an SWP which specifies required pocket dosimeters shall periodically check their pocket dosimeter reading.

  9. The SWP for a task shall be kept near, but not necessarily inside, the work area.

  10. Any individual performing work under an SWP which encounters circumstances or a situation which is unexpected or abnormal shall immediately cease the activity in progress, place the work area in a secure condition, and notify the Reactor Supervisor, the Health Physicist, or the Laboratory Manager, before proceeding with further work.

  11. The Reactor Supervisor and/or Laboratory Manager may periodically observe individuals working under a SWP and review compliance to the established controls and procedures. Failure to follow the provisions of an SWP may result in withdrawal of SWP work privileges.

  12. The SWP Initiator, Reactor Supervisor, or Laboratory Manager may make additions to the list of persons authorized to work under a SWP. Individuals added to a SWP must receive training and demonstrate familiarity with the work procedure prior to being allowed to perform the work alone. Approval of the Reactor Supervisor or Lab Manager is required for added individuals to allow verification of the level of training of the person(s) working under any SWP. Visitors will not normally be allowed to perform work governed by an SWP. If a visitor requires entry to a situation in which a SWP has been issued, verbal approval by the Reactor Supervisor or Lab Manager is required. The approved visitor must be continuously escorted by an individual authorized to work under the SWP.

  13. If work under the SWP results in the relocation of materials resulting or causing a new radiation area or is suspected to have surface contaminated an area or object, the area should be marked appropriately and/or swiped for loose contamination prior to personnel working under the SWP exiting for the day. The person(s) working under the SWP are responsible for marking the area and/or conducting swipes or requesting assistance from health physics staff.

The swipes of any suspect area may be evaluated by direct frisk (remember to account for instrument efficiency) or be taken to the Health Physics laboratory for analysis. If the Health Physicist or technician is not in the laboratory, the swipes should be left at a location as designated by the health physics staff. The swipes should be clearly labeled on the swipe envelope and attached to an area survey map.

All personnel who have been in a SWP where there was suspected exposure to surface contamination should perform a hand and foot frisk using available portable instruments when leaving the work area and should utilize the hand and foot monitor prior to leaving the building.

D. Records

  1. A reference original copy of each SWP will be kept in the reactor control room. The working copy should be in the area where the work is performed. Periodically the reference copy will be compared with the working copy and if additions or changes are suggested in the working copy they will be updated in the reference copy. Hand written notes or comments other than the addition and approval of individuals authorized to work under the SWP are not an official part of the SWP unless initialed by at least one of the same individuals who initially signed to approve the SWP. Periodically if handwritten notes and approvals become numerous, the SWP can be reissued incorporating the approved corrections.