Assessing the results of receipt monitoring programs for packages containing radioactive materials

To assess the results of radioactive material package monitoring programs on a nationwide scale during calendar year 1997, a novel computer- based survey was conducted. A total of 49 respondents from a breadth of industry settings participated in the survey, reporting information on tire receipt of 90,599 packages. The number of packages reported as exhibiting radiation levels in excess of those stated on the shipping container was 2,819, or 3% of the total. The number reported as exhibiting removable contamination levels in excess of permitted limits was 532. or 0.6% of the total. Other descriptive data regarding the actual package receipt procedures employed and the types of packages encountered were also assembled. The results of the survey serve to validate the impressive safety record associated with the transport of radioactive materials and suggests that both package recipients and the national regulatory authorities would benefit from a reassessment of the package receipt processes and regulations currently in place. The novel method in which the survey was actually conducted also served as an informative experience, and the description of the lessons learned will be of assistance to others wishing to utilize this survey modality.