Tübingen University Radioactive Material and Waste Management

Abstract

Radioactivity is the process by which a nucleus of an unstable atom loses energy by emitting particles of ionizing and no ionizing radiation. Radioactivity could be natural or induced. Worldwide, the radioactive materials have many applications in science fields like; ecology, medicine, agriculture, industrial, biology and chemistry. In Costa Rica radioactive materials are use in hospitals, industries and universities. Sources used presents low and high activity level, for example the ones used in universities are Am241 y Ra226. However in order to protect human health and environment, radioactive materials must be managed correctly. Costa Rica radioactive material management is base on regulation 24037-S. Nevertheless, there is no national plan or strategies to manage the materials in a correct form. There are still limitations for users to manipulate, treat and dispose radioactive materials. This work analyzed the radioactive material management at Isotope Laboratory & Radiation Protection, University of Tübingen. Two main aspects were evaluated; 1- Administrative Aspects (manuals, protocols and regulation) and 2- Technical-operatives Aspects (pollution control, facilities, equipment and waste management). The information were collected and analyzed by using the following tools; questionnaire, check list, interview, site inspection, work sessions and documents revision.