PubMed Health⌕ Search
Home/Archive/PubMed

PubMed · 1730562

Detecting removable surface contamination.

R C Klein·I Linins·E L Gershey
View original source ↗Export metadata ↓

Abstract

Although surveying for radioactive contamination by wiping surfaces is the norm, this practice can be highly variable and may be inefficient for detecting low-energy beta emitters. Relying on wipe testing may likewise be an inefficient use of personnel and may seriously underrepresent the amount of contamination present. In general practice, it is better to clean and, where applicable, renew surfaces regularly as part of standard operating protocols and work practices.

Explore related subjects

Equipment ContaminationLaboratoriesRadioactive PollutantsJournal Article

Keep this discovery

Explore connections, maps & timelines

BibTeXRIS

R C Klein, I Linins, E L Gershey. 1992. Detecting removable surface contamination.. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004032-199202000-00010

Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.

KEEP EXPLORING

Related citations

PubMed1992

Managing swabs in the operating theatre: a new method.

The swab count has traditionally used a swab rack. A new alternative 'bag' method involves placing used swabs in batches of five into plastic bags which are sealed and stored in a bin. A randomized prospective study was carried out to compare these two methods. Twenty consecutive ear, nose and throat cases were randomized to rack or bag collection. Swab-related activities were divided into three categories and analysed by formal time-and-motion criteria. Blood contamination of operating theatre and circulating personnel was recorded. The time involved in all three swab-related activities was significantly less using the bag technique. There was no theatre blood contamination using this method, but significant contamination occurred using the rack. Circulating theatre personnel were minimally contaminated in two cases using the bag method but were grossly contaminated in all ten cases using the rack method. The bag technique is therefore safe and time efficient.

Equipment Contamination↗