Air Sampling During Emergency Situations

Air Sampling For Radioactive Materials

Air Sampling For First Responders

Applied Alpha Spectroscopy

Assessment of Radiological Control Programs

Assessment of Radiological Control Programs For Managers

Beta Skin Dose and Hot Particle Control

HP Survey Instrument Calibration and Selection

CRPA Registration I / Fundamentals of Radiation Safety

CRPA Registration II/ Radiation Measurement and Control

CRPA Registration III/ Radiation Program Administration and Regulatory Requirementsl

Decontamination and Decommissioning

Effective ALARA Programs

Effective Contamination Control

Environmental Monitoring

Error Proprogation in Radiochemical Analysis

External Radiation Dosimetry

Fundamentals of Radiation Biology

Fundamentals of Radiation Safety

Gamma Spectroscopy Applications

Health Physics For Uranium Users

How To Write Effective HP Procedures

HP Survey Instrument Calibration and Selection

Implementation of the DOE Radiological Control Manual

Internal Dose Assessment

ISO 9000 Certification Workshop

Laboratory Radiochemistry

Monitoring For Radionuclides in the Environment

Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM) Training

Neutron Detection and Measurement

Nuclear Criticality Safety

Nuclear Fuel Cycle: Analysis and Management

Storage and Management of Low-Level Radioactive Waste

Practical Aspects of Radiation Fundamentals for First Responders

Prepare For and Pass the ABHP Exam - Part I

Prepare For and Pass the ABHP Exam - Part II

Prepare For and Pass the NRRPT Exam

Principles of Radiation Safety (incl. Radiation Biology and Radiological Risk

Principles of Radiation Shielding

Radiation Detection and Measurement

Radiation Biology & Radiological Risk

Radiation Protection for Biomedical Research

Radiation Protection Issues for First Responders

Radiation Safety Program Management (RSO)

Radioactive Sample Analysis

Radioactive Sample Analysis Using Gamma Spectroscopy and Other Methods

Radioactive Waste Packaging, Transportation and Disposal

RadWorker I Training

RadWorker II Training

Successful Defense of Radiation Litigation

Understanding and Calculating Risk from Radionuclides Discharged to the Environment

Whole Body Counting

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Air Sampling During Emergency Situations

This unique 3-day course features a combination of classroom and field exercises, which include: basic concepts, regulatory guidance, emergency management/homeland security, air sampling program strategies, radiation control considerations, potential problem areas, and evaluation of air sample results. Field exercises include the demonstration of various types of environmental monitoring equipment. Emphasis will be placed on the proper set-up, operation and calibration of air samplers in emergency situations, including relocation, contamination control, dealing with nature, and troubleshooting.

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Air Sampling For First Responders

This 2-day course focuses on the fundamentals of collecting air samples for purposes of identifying the nature and extent of a radiological contaminant released in an emergency situation. The course will cover: fundamental concepts of air sampling, regulatory guidance, air sampling instrumentation; sampling strategies, radiation control considerations, potential problem areas, and evaluation of air sample results. Field exercises will be designed based on the organization's own equipment. Emphasis will be placed on the proper set-up, operation and calibration of air samplers in emergency situations, including relocation, contamination control, dealing with nature, and troubleshooting. Major subjects covered include: representative sampling, sampler location, calibration of air monitors, lower limit of detection, and sampling strategies and problems.

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Air Sampling For Radioactive Materials
This 3-day short course provides practical training for personnel responsible for air sampling and/or the assessment of airborne radionuclides. The first two days of the course will focus on basic air sampling theory and concepts with emphasis on regulatory requirements and cost-effective compliance. Major subjects covered include: representative sampling, sampler location, calibration of air monitors, lower limit of detection, and sampling strategies and problems. The last day of the course will be devoted to hands-on demonstration of air sampling equipment, systems, & accessories. Items to be demonstrated are: High, Medium, low and very low volume air samplers, battery operated air samplers, filter holders, filter collection media, and air flow calibrators & adapter cones.

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Applied Alpha Spectroscopy
This course is designed for laboratory personnel interested in the precise detection and measurement of alpha emitting radioisotopes. Because of the extremely low backgrounds obtainable, alpha spectroscopy compares very favorably to other commonly used nuclear identification and measurement techniques in terms of sensitivity and detection limits. This course provides a basic understanding of alpha particle characteristics, interaction, and detection. Attendees will be able to make informed decisions on specific applications of alpha spectrometry and assist the analyst in obtaining the best possible results from a particular system. A complete overview of alpha liquid scintillation and the PERALS spectrometer is also be presented. Lectures and demonstrations cover recommended counting room procedures and necessary sample preparation techniques.

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CRPA Registration - Part I / Principles of Radiation Safety Part 1 of a 3 course series, Principles of Radiation Safety will cover the following core competency requirements for CRPA recognition: Physical Principles of Radiation & Radioactivity, Interaction of Radiation with Matter, Radiation Dosimetry, Biological Effects of Radiation, Basic Mathematics Review, Radiation Shielding, Air Sampling & Respiratory Protection, Radioactive Waste, Response to Radiation Safety Incidents, Inspections/Audits/Investigations, Radioactive Material Inventory Management, Contamination Control and Emergency/Special Procedures.

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CRPA Registration - Part II / Radiation Measurement and Control Part 2 of a 3 course series, Radiation Measurement and Control will cover the following core competency requirements for CRPA recognition: Exposure and Dose Control: Ionizing Radiation Theory, Concepts of Risk, Units of Radiation Exposure and Dose, Radiation Exposure Limits, Practical Means of Radiation Protection; Instrumentation and Equipment: Radiation Monitoring Devices/Equipment, Performance Checks/Calibrations, Radiation Devices/Equipment; Personnel Dosimetry: Radiation Exposure Hazards, Factors Influencing Dose, Personal Monitoring, Bioassy (General Awareness), External Exposure/Internal Dosimetry, Radiation Biology (General Awareness), and Pregnant Radiation Users

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CRPA Registration - Part III / Radiation Program Administration and Regulatory Requirements Part 3 of a 3 course series, Radiation Program Administration and Regulatory Requirements will cover the following core competency requirements for CRPA recognition: Radiation Safety Program Administration: Administration/Responsibilities, Committees, Policy and Procedure Development; Radiation Safety Act and Regulations: Canadian Acts and Regulations, Other Regulatory Agencies; Licence/Permits: Types of Licenses, Exemptions, Applications & Renewals, Amendments, Terms of Reference; Working Rules; Record Keepting; Employee Qualifications/Performance: Categories of Worker-Public, Employee Training/Continuing Education

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Beta Skin Dose and Hot Particle Control
This course provides an in-depth look at hot particles, including the physical properties and sources of hot particles, methods of beta dose calculation, and impact of hot particles on plant operations. The course reviews the guidance from NRCP and ICRP, the basics of radiation transport and dose calculation, and the rules and regulations promulgated by NRC and DOE. The results of current research on the effects of hot particles is presented along with discussions of future directions of hot particle and beta skin dose regulations. This course provides an opportunity for those new to the field to gain a broad perspective of the impact, measurement, and mitigation of hot particles and for those with more experience a chance to increase their knowledge in this important and controversial topic.

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HP Survey Instrument Selection and Calibration
This 3-day short course provides practical training for personnel responsible for the selection and calibration of portable instrumentation and survey meters, as well as laboratory counters and air samplers.

The course will concentrate on the applicable ANSI standards (ANSI N323A, B & D, ANSI N42.17 A, B & C) and other accepted guidance (eg. NUREG's, NCRP's IAEA Technical Reports, etc.) and how these standards apply to the routine operation of a calibration facility. Although the concentration is on the selection and calibration of portable instrumentation (including air sampling and field counting instruments), the basic principles of calibrating laboratory equipment (whole body counters) will also be addressed.

The course will also address the basic types of hand-held HP instruments, which to select in measuring various types and strengths of radiation fields, and the capabilities and limitations of each.

Course topics include: principles of radiological instrument calibration; techniques to help simplify the writing of instrument calibration procedures; calculation of the Lower Limit of Detection (LLD); design of a calibration facility, calibration record keeping requirements; and qualifications and initial/continuing training of calibration technicians.

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Decontamination and Decommissioning of DOE & NRC RegulatedFacilities

The United States has rapidly become a leader in the decontamination and dismantlement of commercial and government nuclear facilities. There are a myriad of regulatory and other issues that an owner/operator encounters once the decision is made to shut down the facility. This course focuses on the requirements, planning and processes, and the decision to be made when pursuing the decontamination and decommissioning of a nuclear facility. The course begins with the planning and decisions associated with the decommissioning planning phase, then the facility closure and transition phase, and concludes with the programs and processes associated with the implementation phase. Although the course has obvious application to those employed at commercial power reactors, it's also applicable to facilities under the jurisdiction of DOE. Comparisons will be made between case histories associated with the decommissioning of DOE and NRC regulated facilities. Lessons learned from actual industry experience will be discussed and audience participation will be encouraged.

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Decontamination Techniques and Applications

On completion of this course, the trainees will be able to distinguish between the various types of decontamination methods available and determine which method is best used for a specific application.

The trainee will be able to:
s Determine the different types of contaminants
s Describe how contamination occurs
s Describe the different types of decontamination methods available
s Determine which decontamination method is best used
s Describe the advantages of decontamination
s Explain the theory of operation behind each decontamination method
s Understand proper vs. improper techniques for each method
s Describe the commonly used materials for each process
s Understand the training required for each method
s Explain the effectiveness of the various methods
s Identify the necessary safety precautions for each method
s Describe the waste generation and disposal practices for each method
s Describe the advantages and disadvantages of each method

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Effective ALARA Programs
This 3-day course was developed for Health Physicists and Engineers who have the responsibility for designing, implementing, appraising and improving dose reduction (ALARA) programs at operating nuclear facilities. The course focuses on methods for reducing employee dose and minimizing contamination spread through: improved operating procedures and work control methods, use of traditional dose-reduction techniques, consideration of state-of-the-art methodology (robotics, protective clothing, remote dosimetry, etc.), use of engineered controls (ventilation, decontamination, contamination containments), ALARA goal setting and evaluation, and appraisal of program design and implementation. Classroom exercises and a discussion of case histories in a variety of nuclear environments will help attendees gain a broad understanding of "lessons learned" from other nuclear facilities, with an emphasis on improving the current ALARA program. Course material is based on current NRC and DOE regulations (including the ALARA requirements in the Revised 10CFR20), regulatory guidance documents, and best nuclear industry policies and practices. Student participation is highly encouraged throughout the course and especially during an Information Exchange on day 3, which is a guided discussion of specific ALARA questions among attendees. A comprehensive, objective written examination is administered at the end of the course. The objectives of the examination are to identify training areas that need to be clarified or reiterated, and to correct any student misunderstanding of the material.

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Effective Contamination Control
This course enables participants to develop comprehensive and cost-effective contamination control programs and evaluate their effectiveness. Contamination control concepts, the accurate assessment of contamination, and taking advantage of "lessons learned" from other nuclear facilities is presented. Key indicators of successful programs is discussed, and case studies include contamination control incidents and innovations. The course also addresses current decontamination concepts, practices, agents and equipment. The proper selection of protective clothing, including radiological limits is discussed as well as various types of containments, including their installation, inspection and removal. Written procedures, radiation work permits, and pre-job planning and training for effective contamination control are also included.

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Environmental Monitoring

This course will provide health physics and environmental monitoring professionals with a practical knowledge of effluent and environmental monitoring programs. After an in depth review of the NRC, EPA and DOE regulations involved in implementing these programs, the instructor will focus on the environmental monitoring aspects of measuring effluents, and the steps involved in developing a technically sound and cost effective environmental monitoring program. Developing and implementing preoperational and operational monitoring programs will be covered, including sampling media and equipment, required procedures, quality assurance, reporting requirements, and actual radionuclide transport in the environment.

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Error Propagation in Radiochemical Analysis
This course addresses an important topic which is essential to the proper analysis of all radiation measurements and calculations. Statistical tests and data interpretation will be accented to help students understand regulatory concerns of data generation. Attendees will become familiar with the statistical nature of analytical and radiation measurements and the validity of empirical data. Basic counting statistics will be expanded upon to provide a deeper understanding of the application of statistics to radiation measurements.

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External Dose Assessment
This course provides a review and update of dose measurement (dosimetry) and simple external dose assessment. The course provides a strong review of the fundamentals of quantities, including the most recent ICRP recommendations and limits. The physics behind various active and passive dosimeters is discussed along with specific instrumentation. State-of-the art dosimeter developments are included along with dosimeter requirements, accreditation, and standards. In addition to covering dosimeters in use at nuclear power plants, the course is designed to give the student perspective on the dosimetric requirements for medical personnel, radiation therapy treatment planning, homeland security, mixed fields, space, accidents and very high dose situations.

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Fundamentals of Radiation Biology
This course covers the effects of ionizing radiation exposure on biological molecules, cells, tissues, and the human body. Both short term effects and latent effects such as the production of cancer and leukemia, inherited effects, and their underlying causes are examined in detail. Exposures of the embryo and fetus are evaluated. Internally deposited radionuclides of importance in occupational settings are given special consideration. All effects are put into perspective by an in-depth development of dose response and risk models.

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Fundamentals of Radiation Safety
This course is designed as an introduction to basic radiation protection principles for beginning HP Technicians and for those with a minimum of technical training. Theory and practical applications are equally covered with each student receiving a hard bound textbook and a complete course notebook for future reference and further depth of study. Topics include Basic Physics and Radiological Units, Atomic and Nuclear Structure, Radioactivity, Decay Schemes, Quantities and Units, Statistics Lab and Demonstration, X-rays, Time, Distance and Shielding, Interaction of Radiation with Matter, Internal Dosimetry and Maximum Permissible Concentrations, Natural Radiation, External Dosimetry, Record Keeping, Radiation Detectors (Ionization Chambers, Proportional Counters, Geiger Counters, Scintillation Detectors, Neutron Detectors, etc.), and The Biological Effects of Radiation.

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Gamma Spectroscopy Applications
This course is designed to remove the 'black-box' approach to gamma spectroscopy results. (i.e., Put the sample on the detector, push the button, read the printed report, accept the results). It will provide a solid basis in the fundamentals of gamma spectroscopy while focusing on the areas that permit the operator to prepare a representative sample, optimize system parameters, understand the effects of cascade summing, interference peaks, geometry, and libraries parameters. Class exercises guide the student through the interpretation of results with consideration of peak fit, source term and process knowledge of the sample. Laboratory QA and good practices are also discussed. Time permitting, students will be introduced to the concepts and benefits of modeled geometries and in situ measurements.

This course will also provide an overview of the hardware and techniques employed in gamma-ray spectroscopy and provide an understanding of the fundamentals physical processes underlying their application. The course will review basic radioactive decay theory and interaction of radiation with matter to explain spectral features and their interpretation, including peak identification and energy determination, backscatter peaks, single and double escape peaks and proper use of control charts.

This course is designed to provide a practical introduction to gamma spectroscopy for those new to the field of gamma spectroscopy, but also provide practical applications to those who are currently performing gamma spectroscopy. The course is intended for radiochemists, technicians and others who will be doing routine and specialized gamma spectroscopy, as well as quality assurance officers and data validators who may have a need to understand gamma spectroscopy measurements.

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Health Physics For Uranium Users
This course enables participants to develop and implement comprehensive health physics programs for facilities and operations processing or handling uranium materials. The radiological and chemical properties of uranium, chemical and radiological toxicity, and potential impacts of recycled uranium impurities are covered. The radiation protection concerns and exposure control methods associated with various types of uranium processing and handling operations are presented with emphasis on methods for effective contamination control. Additional topics addressed include: workplace monitoring program design & implementation, including instrumentation considerations; surface and personnel contamination monitoring and air sampling; design and implementation of personnel bioassay programs, including determination of sampling frequency and action levels; basics of nuclear criticality safety; and cost effective compliance with new ALARA and record keeping requirements.

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Writing Effective HP Procedures
This course is designed to improve the participants' technical procedure writing skills. It consists of guided discussions on effective procedure writing, revision, use, and control. Examples are provided of effective and ineffective procedures and an exercise is conducted in revising weak procedures.

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Implementation of the Radiological Control Manual
This 2-day course is designed to address all major topics covered by the Radiological Protection Manual and by the new 10CFR835 regulations. Extensive use will be made of case studies, applied examples and "lessons learned" from actual DOE facilities to amplify and demonstrate the concepts presented. Our instructors have broad radiological protection experience at both NRC licensed and DOE facilities, and this course draws heavily on their experiences in training and appraising radiological protection programs at those sites.

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Assessment of Radiological Control Programs
This course enables participants to correctly identify strengths and weaknesses of radiological protection programs with specific guidance provided on improving operational radiation protection performance in all major areas. Although preventing regulatory violations is a key course objective, participants are given guidance on evaluating the efficient use o resources (instrumentation, procedures, staffing, etc.). Current regulatory philosophy on radiation protection programs is addressed with emphasis on minimum program qualifications, "fatal flaws," performance indicators, management qualities, and response to special problems. The course concludes with a review of proper documentation of appraisals and corrective actions, tracking systems, and follow-up evaluations.

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Assessment of Radiological Control Programs For Managers

This course is a companion to "Assessment of Radiological Control Programs" and is designed for persons who manage other assessors. The course provides a review of the basic principles that enable participants to correctly identify strengths and weaknesses of radiological protection programs. In addition, specific guidance is provided on improving operational radiation protection performance in all major areas, with an emphasis on evaluating performance (not just regulatory compliance). Current regulatory philosophy on radiation protection programs will be addressed, with emphasis on minimum program qualifications, "fatal flaws," performance indicators, management qualities, and response to special problems. A review of proper documentation of assessments, corrective actions, tracking systems, and follow-up evaluations will also be provided.

Because the typical participants are managers, they will also be provided with guidance on recruiting, retaining, qualifying and utilizing the assessors, which represent a valuable human resource. Specific recommendations will be provided on the management aspects of planning, conducting and reporting on assessments, and on interfacing with senior management.

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Internal Dose Assessment
This course provides health physics professionals with a basic understanding of the principles of internal dose calculations and state-of-the-art measurement techniques. The calculational models presented in ICRP Publications 2, 23, 26 and 30 are reviewed along with applicable ANSI Standards. Examples are presented using various radionuclides such as trontium,Cesium, Plutonium, etc. The use and limitations of each model are emphasized. The application and accuracy of various whole body counting techniques is covered. Problem sessions throughout the course emphasize practical applications of principles taught.

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ISO-9000 Certification Workshop
This course enables attendees to lead or participate in an ISO-9000 certification team using Total Quality Management (TQM) systems in an ASME NQA-01 nuclear facility environment. With the latest ISO-9000 interpretations, the quality control aspects of this specification are being complemented with the quality assurance and management systems of TQM. This course shows how these requirements can be implemented in a facility that is currently meeting the requirements of ASME NQA-01 - Quality Assurance Program Requirements for Nuclear Facilities. Strategies to overcome common problems of implementation are also be shown as the group develops material for an ISO-9001 Quality Manual. The documentation structure levels are explained through writing procedures in ISO format. The course also address the ISO series (ISO-9000, 9001, 9002, 9003, and 9004); the advantages of working in a TQM system and steps to become ISO-9000 registered and choosing a registrar.

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Laboratory Radiochemistry

The quality of analytical results are a total of all aspects of the sample process. The course takes the student through all phases of sample analysis; Data Quality Objectives (DQO), representative sampling, sample preparation, counting, analysis and data validation. This course will examine sample preparation techniques including digestion, extraction, distillation and precipitation, including applications for difficult matrices. Commercially available methods will be included in the discussion. The focus of the course is the analytical instrumentation. Gamma spectroscopy, liquid scintillation, gas-flow proportional counting, alpha spectrometry, and extractive scintillators will be discussed. QA, audit and assessments, and counting statistics are included.

The instructor's experience in audits, assessments and technical support of analytical laboratories has identified many of the common pitfalls that lead to inaccurate identification and quantification of sample content. The practical aspects of a quality and defensible program will be discussed.

No hands-on laboratory exercises are available in this course, the results of laboratory experiments reinforcing selected concepts discussed in the lectures will be presented.

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Monitoring For Radionuclides in the Environment

This course will provide health physics and environmental monitoring professionals with a practical knowledge of the design and operation of radioactivity environmental monitoring programs. Relevant NRC, EPA and DOE regulations will be discussed. Sources of radiation and radionuclides in the environment will be presented. The instructor will focus on the steps involved in developing a technically sound environmental monitoring program. Key aspects of developing and implementing preoperational and operational monitoring programs will be covered, including sampling media and equipment, required procedures, quality assurance, reporting requirements, and actual radionuclide transport in the environment.

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Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM) Training

INTENDED AUDIENCE: This awareness-level four-day course, presented by a certified health physicist, is designed for managers, quality assurance personnel, licensing personnel, radiological support personnel, and others responsible for developing, reviewing or implementing MARSSIM survey plans.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM) is a Department of Defense, Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency, and Nuclear Regulatory Commission technical consensus guidance document that provides the methodology used to demonstrate compliance with dose- or risk-based regulations. This course supports the MARSSIM objective to bring about a nationally consistent approach for conduction radiation surveys and investigations at potentially contaminated sites nationwide.

Keeping the perspective of managers in mind, the following MARSSIM topics will be discussed: - Overview of the Radiation Survey and Site Investigation - Data Life Cycle - Integrated Survey Design - Interpretation of results

In addition, a lessons learned session focuses on identifying and avoiding common pitfalls found in MARSSIM survey plans. Handouts, references, and a copy of the MARSSIM manual are provided.

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Storage and Management of Low-Level Radioactive Waste
Disposal alternatives for low-level radioactive waste generators are becoming prohibitively expensive and many facilities are struggling with on-site storage, awaiting the opening of regional disposal facilities. This course is designed to identify and describe problems facing organizations who are impacted by rising disposal costs and slowdown of new disposal site development. As a group, course participants discuss potential strategies for the disposal, treatment, volume reduction, and on-site storage of low-level radioactive wastes. Selected course topics include: status of regional compacts and technical/political issues associated with new site development; review of the regulations governing the management of LLW; waste treatment, disposal and reduction options currently available to LLW generators; strategies for on-site storage; and discussion of saftey issues that must be considered in radioactive waste management. The course consists of lectures and group discussions over a 3-day period. Ample time is allowed for group interaction so that participants can benefit from a broad spectrum of experiences and lessons learned in the areas of LLW management and on-site storage.

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Neutron Detection and Measurement
Since neutrons are, primarily, detected based on photons and charged particles produced by neutron interactions, a neutron detection course should cover the fundamental concepts of neutron interactions as well as those of gammas and charged particles. In addition to interactions, the course will cover all methods of neutron detection; methods for determination of neutron energy; basic concepts of radiation counting statistics; principles and operation of common neutron detectors; specialized neutron detectors, and neutron dosimetry and dosimeters. The course stresses the development of a basic understanding of the principles of operation of neutron detectors and dosimeters, and helps develop an ability to inter-compare and select instrumentation best suited for different applications. It will provide an opportunity for those new to the field to gain a broad perspective of measurement options, and for practitioners to refresh their knowledge in areas outside their own specialties.

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Nuclear Fuel Cycle: Analysis and Management
This course provides a comprehensive overview of all activities related to the nuclear fuel cycle, not only from a technical point of view, but also with regard to the economic, political, and social impacts. From uranium mining to the disposal of radioactive wastes, this course was developed for engineers who are just starting in the nuclear industry as well for professionals who have been working in areas other than the nuclear fuel cycle. A technicalbackground is desirable but not a prerequisite for this course. The range and depth of subject areas can be adjusted to accommodate the interest and background of the participants.

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Nuclear Criticality Safety
This course provides an overview of the mechanisms and factors affecting chain reactions in the non-reactor environment. It emphasizes both the technical and human requirements for preventing a nuclear criticality accident and is intended for those who need to deal with, but do not specialize in, nuclear criticality safety. Descriptions of past criticality accidents are presented to elicit the key lessons learned and tie them to current regulations, standards, and sound safety practices. Case studies highlight and reinforce important administrative and technical approaches. Beginning with subcritical limits and hand calculational techniques, the course gradually guides students through more advanced methods used in analyzing criticality problems, up to and including computer based techniques. Computer applications will be reviewed with emphasis on making sense of the output. The course concludes with a broad overview of the administrative controls and practices necessary to maintain an effective criticality control program.

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Practial Aspects of Radiation Fundamentals for First Responders

This 3-day course will provide the technical and practical training necessary for first responders to respond to a radiological incident. This course will include a review of basic radiation fundamentals, principles of radiation shielding, radiation detection instrumentation, spectroscopy of radionuclides, sampling for radionuclides in accident/off-normal circumstances, emergency response protocols for accidents involving radiation as well as understanding risk from radiation exposure.

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Prepare For and Pass the ABHP Exam - Part I

A five-day examination-based course designed to prepare the qualified candidate to pass Part I of the American Board of Health Physics (ABHP) certification examination. It is an ideal preparation program for ABHP certification candidates who are sitting for Part I only, or for both Parts I and II in the same year. The course combines Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodology with sample examinations to impart upon and refresh the candidate with those health physics principles tested by the ABHP on the examination. The course content is based upon the Domains and Sub-Areas established by the ABHP in 1987. Course examinations use questions in the same Domain percentage breakdown as the actual examination.

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Prepare For and Pass the ABHP Exam - Part II

A five-day, examination-based course designed to prepare the qualified candidate to pass Part II of the American Board of Health Physics (ABHP) certification examination. The course combines Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodology with actual Part II examination questions to impart upon and refresh the candidate with those health physics principles tested by the ABHP on the examination. The course content is based upon the Domains and Sub-Areas established by the ABHP in 1987. Past and emulated Part II questions have been grouped according to each Fundamental and Specialty area identified in the ABHP's Examination Preparation Guide. Each area is covered in an Overview Lecture and Examination Workshop, and the course culminates in a mock Part II examination covering all of the areas.

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Prepare For and Pass the NRRPT Exam

NRRPT Exam Review is a five-day, examination-based course designed to prepare the qualified candidate to pass the National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists (NRRPT) examination. The course combines Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodology with sample examinations to impart upon and refresh the candidate with "required knowledges" tested by the NRRPT. The course content is constructed based upon the Role Delineation constructed by the NRRPT Panel of Examiners in 1987 and reissued by the NRRPT Board of Directors in 1991. The course covers all major elements in an operational Radiological Protection Program and includes a review of basic mathematics, practical problem-solving, radiation and radioactivity, and applied health physics. In addition, it examines the applicable regulations and provides suggestions for monitoring and improving program performance.

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Principles of Radiation Safety (incl. Radiation Biology & Radiological Risk

This course is designed as an introduction to basic radiation protection principles for beginning HP Technicians and for those with a minimum of technical training. Theory and practical application are equally covered with each student receiving a hard bound textbook and a complete course notebook for future reference and further depth of study. The course topics include the basic subject areas in radiation safety with an expanded section on the Biological Effects of Radiation. This section will cover the effects of ionizing radiation exposure on biological molecules, cells, tissues, and the human body as a system. Both short term and latent effects (such as the production of cancer and leukemia, and genetic effects) and their underlying causes will be examined in detail. Exposures of the embryo and fetus will be evaluated, along with special consideration of internally deposited radionuclides of importance in occupational settings. All of the various radiation bio-effects are put into perspective by an in-depth development of dose response and risk models.

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Principles of Radiation Shielding

This course focuses on the fundamentals of the production and interaction of ionizing radiation with matter and on how to use these fundamental properties to estimate and reduce radiation doses in practical situations. Simplified analytical and computer-based methods are presented for estimating doses from gamma rays, neutrons, beta-particles and alpha particles. Both the similarities and differences in shielding methods for different types of radiation are presented. The application of fundamental shielding principles to a wide variety of important radiation protection problems is emphasized. In addition, special approximate techniques applicable for a particular radiation or special geometry are also reviewed. The course is based on the widely used textbook "Radiation Shielding" by Profs. Shultis and Faw who are also the course instructors. This text and additional supplementary material, customized to the needs of the attendees, will be provided to all course registrants.

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Radiation Detection & Measurement
This course provides an overview of the instruments and techniques important in the detection and spectroscopy of ionizing radiation, and an increased understanding of the physical processes underlying their application. It stresses the development of a basic understanding of the principles of operation of various detectors, and helps develop an ability to intercompare and select instrumentation best suited for different applications. It will provide an opportunity for those new to the field to gain a broad perspective of measurement options, and for practitioners to refresh their knowledge in areas outside their own specialties. The course is based on the Third Edition of Radiation Detection and Measurement, written by Prof. Glenn F. Knoll, the lead instructor. This book has attained widespread recognition as the standard published work in the field, and a copy is provided to all course registrants. Customized lecture notes will also be distributed to serve as a supplement to the text.

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Radiation Biology and Radiological Risk

This course covers the effects of ionizing radiation exposure on biological molecules, cells, tissues, and the human body as a system. Both short term and latent effects (such as the production of cancer and leukemia, and genetic effects) and their underlying causes will be examined in detail. Exposures of the embryo and fetus will be evaluated, along with special consideration of internally deposited radionuclides of importance in occupational settings. All of the various radiation bioeffects are put into perspective by an in-depth development of dose response and risk models. New concepts such as the bystander effect will be discussed. Applications of radiological risk in dose reconstruction studies and radiation compensation situations will be presented. Problem solving and discussion sessions will be interspersed among lectures.

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Successful Defense of Radiation Litigation
This course is designed to promote a thorough understanding of radiation litigation. Actual testimony is reviewed and legal techniques are explained. Which types of documentation are most important in the areas of personnel exposure, plant and environmental surveys, employees/contractor training and operational procedures? What are the legal implications (for corporations and individuals) of various degrees of non-compliance with 10CFR19, 20 & 21? How much emphasis do the courts place on compliance with 10CFR20.101? What role does the probability of causation play in an effective claims defense? Which activities can be covered by nuclear liability insurance and to what limits? How much coverage do you have and need? What methods do attorneys for the plaintiff use to obtain favorable settlements when scientific evidence is not in their favor? This course will answer many questions you have on nuclear liability and provide individuals and corporations with the knowledge necessary to avoid costly liability claims defense and settlements.

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Radiation Protection for Biomedical Research
This course is designed to teach health physics and laboratory research personnel how to organize and operate an effective radiation safety program. The course covers radiation safety organization, radioisotope licensing, typical research procedures, authorization of radiation uses, purchasing controls, dose limits (including the new 10 CFR Part 20), personnel monitoring for both external and internal exposure, radiation safety instrumentation, contamination monitoring by laboratory personnel, surveys by health physics personnel, transportation of radioactive materials, radioactive waste disposal, records management, software available for health physics applications, and emergency procedures and response for radioactive spills. The course will emphasize the practical aspects of radiation protection and cost-effective regulatory compliance.

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Radiation Protection Issues for First Responders

This 3-day course provides an overview of the fundamentals of radiation protection of importance to first responders. The goal is to help prepare emergency responders for events of nuclear and radiological terrorism. Discussion will include equipment requirements for responders, decontamination strategies as well as maintenance considerations and the appropriate intervals and level of training. Practical tools for estimating the nature of the threat, the amount of shielding, as well as decontamination strategies will be covered. Examples will be presented for commonly encountered radionuclides as well as those most likely to be used in improvised radiological dispersal devices, radiation exposure devices, or other nuclear devices. Resources and where to go for more information will also be presented and discussed. The course is designed to be applicable to those with a limited knowledge of radiation and radioactive materials as well as serving as a refresher for more experienced individuals. The most recent National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) Commentary No. 19 – “Key Elements of Preparing Emergency Responders for Nuclear and Radiological Terrorism” will be presented and discussed.rotection and cost-effective regulatory compliance.

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Radiation Safety Program Management (RSO)
This course is designed to provide the technical and practical information necessary for establishing and implementing a technically sound and cost-effective radiation safety program at a licensed facility. The course includes a review of basic mathematics and calculations, radiation and radioactivity, operational health physics and provides additional practical guidance and case studies of applied radiation safety programs. All aspects of radiation safety are discussed: personal dosimetry, radiation detection and measurement, exposure controls and required surveys, survey methods, state and federal x-ray standards, skin dose calculations, interpreting regulations and guidelines, licensing requirements, dealing with regulatory audits and items of non-compliance, and emergency planning.

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Radioactive Sample Analysis
This course addresses topics which are essential to the proper analysis of radioactive samples, including basic statistics, detectors, procedures, and documentation. Statistics is often a weak area in a health physicist's education and training. Many regulatory concerns involve the improper statistical interpretation of data. In this course, basic counting statistics are expanded upon to provide a deeper understanding of the application of statistics to HP measurements. Probability distributions most useful to health physicists (Poisson, Chi-square, exponential, etc.) are emphasized along with the statistical nature of bias, precision, accuracy, error limits, variance and limits of detection. The basic operating principles of different types of radiation detectors are reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of GeLi, NaI, liquid scintillation, alpha counters, etc. are discussed, including the operation, calibration, controls, interferences, and problems associated with each type of detector. An optional session focuses on counting room setup, including equipment and supplies needed for various types of analysis. Finally, the above topics are related techniques to assure correct sample size and preparation are covered along with calibrationto regulatory requirements and the design of effective quality assurance programs. Sampling procedures for the most commonly used laboratory counters. Course materials include counting and calibration problems (and solutions) most frequently encountered in radioactive sample analysis.

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Radioactive Sample Analysis Using GammaSpectroscopy and Other Methods

This course is designed to provide a practical introduction to laboratory analysis methods for those new to the field, while also providing practical applications to those who are currently working in analytical laboratories. The course is intended for radiochemists, technicians and others who are doing routine and specialized analysis, as well as quality assurance officers and data validators who may have a need an understanding of radio-analytical measurements. Even data users will benefit from the insights and discussions of Data Quality Objectives and work specifications to insure that the results they get back from the laboratory provide the information that is required for the project. Topics are applicable to a wide range of sample matrices including operational samples, environmental samples and in vitro bioassay.

Remember, not all results are created equally. Many details, if overlooked, can quickly invalidate a result. This course is designed to remove the 'black-box' approach to laboratory analysis and results. (i.e., Put the sample on the detector, push the button, read the printed report, accept the results). The topics provide a solid basis in the fundamentals of alpha beta proportional counting, liquid scintillation counting, alpha spectrometry and gamma spectroscopy while focusing on the areas that permit the operator to prepare a representative sample, optimize system parameters and understand the effects of interferences and geometry.

A special emphasis is placed on gamma spectroscopy including cascade summing, interference peaks, geometry, and libraries parameters. Class exercises guide the student through the interpretation of results with consideration of peak fit, source term and process knowledge of the sample. A review of the basics of radioactive decay theory and interaction of radiation with matter is used to explain calibration protocol and spectral features and their interpretation, including peak identification and energy determination, backscatter peaks, single and double escape peaks for gamma spectroscopy. Time-permitting, students will be introduced to the concepts and benefits of modeled geometries and in situ measurements.

Counting statistics, laboratory QA, good practices and development of Data Quality Objectives and Quality Assurance parameters are included. Current guidance documents for QA programs are reviewed.

For a copy of the course brochure, click here.

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Radioactive Waste Packaging, Transportation and Disposal
This course was designed to provide a general awareness and overview of the applicable regulations in 49 CFR (DOT), 10 CFR Part 71 (NRC) and a working knowledge of the application of those regulations by shippers and carriers of radioactive materials. It has been developed with the needs of the end-user in mind, at both the manager and operator levels. Specific coverage is also given to the NRC requirements in 10 CFR Part 61 which apply to generators of low level radioactive waste and the applicable wasteclassification and waste form requirements. Several workshop sessions are conducted which afford the student the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in deriving package activity limits, package selection, marking, labeling, and placarding requirements. A comprehensive written examination is given on the final day. The new DOT regulation for training of "hazmat employees" includes a requirement for testing employees to determine the effectiveness of the training (see 49 CFR 172.702 [d]). Although certification of hazmat training is the responsibility of each employer, this course is designed to satisfy the applicable training requirements of the new regulations.

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RadWorker I Training

This 2-day course provides appropriate training for individuals who work with radioactive material or radiation producing devices that do not produce high radiation fields. Students will learn to work safely in areas containing radioactive materials, utilize radiation work permits, and demonstrate radiation monitoring practices. Successful course completion also includes passing a written examination.

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RadWorker II Training

This 2-day course includes all of the training for Rad Worker I plus additional training appropriate for individuals who might enter high radiation or contaminated areas or who may work with unsealed quantities of radioactive materials. This class will include exercises on protective clothing and performing radiation frisking.

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Understanding and Calculating Risk from Radionuclides Discharged to the Environment This 5-day course was developed for Health Physicists, Radiological Engineers, Environmental Scientists, RSO's and all other personnel responsible for compliance with environmental standards, dose assessment research, dose reconstruction and risk assessment. This course will concentrate on the latest methods for radiation measurement, data analysis, risk assessment, and compliance with regulatory standards and NCRP/ICRP guidelines. The course consists of lectures, problem solving and group discussions over a 5-day period. Currently available software for dose projection and calculation will also be evaluated.

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Whole Body Counting
This course covers basic and advanced in-vivo measurement theory and applied technique for the measurement of internally deposited radionuclides. It covers the variety of methods used for in-vivo measurement and will present a picture of the rapidly evolving science of whole body counting. The uptake and biokinetics of radionuclides are presented relative to the methods used to measure activity content and effective removal. The merits of several types of in-vivo measurement systems are reviewed and compared. A basic set of "tools" is presented that can be used for the measurement and biokinetic assessment of internally deposited radionuclides typically encountered at nuclear power plants, national laboratories, medical facilities, and other facilities that routinely handle unsealed radioactive materials. Basic methods of spectral analysis with respect to the interferences common to in-vivo measurement are covered. Factors of the in-vivo measurement that influence the final dose assessment and those that improve the quality of data provided to the dosimeterist are also presented.

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Measurement and Detection of Radiation
conducted by Dr. Tsoulfanidis This course will provide a detailed description of the types of instruments used for the detection of ionizing radiation, of the principles upon which radiation detection is based, and of the techniques needed and used for the analysis and interpretation of the results of radiation
detection instruments. Detection of charged particles, photons, and neutrons will be overed in detail.Intended for those new in the field and for practitioners who want to refresh their knowledge.

Basic text: " Measurement and Detection of Radiation" , 2nd Edition, by Dr. NicholasTsoulfanidis, the course instructor. This text is widely used here and abroad to teach this subject. Additional lecture notes will supplement the text.

Detailed Course Outline
1. Introduction (radiation, particles/waves, errors, accuracy, precision)

2. Atomic and Nuclear Physics-Brief Review ( atomic structure; ionization/excitation; energy exchange; X rays; nuclear structure; nuclear binding energy; nuclear energy levels, nuclear excitation/de-excitation; gamma emission; nuclear decay modes; nuclear reactions; Q value (
energy released); endothermic/exothermic; fission.

3. Energy Loss and Penetration of Radiation through matter ( mechanisms of charged particleenergy loss; stopping power; range of alphas, electrons, protons, heavy ions; interactions of photons; photoelectric effect; Compton scattering; pair production; gamma attenuation coefficients ( linear, mass, total, absorption); mean free path; exponential attenuation; buildup
effect; interactions of neutrons with matter; scattering; absorption; probability of interaction (cross sections); neutron flux; interaction rates

4. General principles of radiation detection ( radiation interacts with matter and produces charge that is collected and is transformed into a pulse that can be recorded; role of preamplifier; amplifier; scaler; pulse height and energy dependence; multichannel analyzers; role of the oscilloscope; good and bad signals; detector efficiency)

5. Statistical Errors of Radiation Counting (the error of count n is ; gross, background and net counting rates; error of net counting rate; the standard probable and other errors; confidence limits; the importance of Gaussian distribution for measured data; combining counting rates; methods of error reduction; dead time correction; minimum detectable activity)

6. Gas-Filled Detectors ( basic principles of construction and operation; ionization; proportional; G-M counters; gas-flow detectors)

7. Scintillation Detectors ( basic principles of operation and construction; photomultiplier tube; types of scintillators and their uses)

8. Semiconductor Detectors (basic principles of operation and construction; types of semiconductor detectors; uses; advantages/disadvantages of various detector types)

9. Relative and Absolute Measurements (various effects that determine counting rates: geometry; source; detector; relative and absolute measurements)

10. Introduction to Spectroscopy ( definition of energy spectra; relationship between pulse height and energy spectrum; energy resolution; FWHM, G; why is energy resolution important; multichannel analyzers)

11. Gamma and X-ray Spectroscopy ( energy deposition by photons; main peak; Compton continuum; annihilation peaks; response function of various gamma detectors)

12. Charged Particle Spectroscopy-Brief Discussion (alpha counting; proton counting; fission fragment detection)

13. Neutron Detection and Spectroscopy ( n-detection by charged particle reactions; by foil activation; by n-p collisions; neutron detectors; SPND's; compensated ion chambers)

14. Health Physics Fundamentals ( units of exposure; absorbed dose and dose equivalent units; the Quality factor; dosimetry for sources outside the body; dose calculations for source in side the body; biological effects of radiation; radiation protection guides; dosimeters)

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Neutron Detection and Measurement
Since neutrons are, primarily, detected based on photons and charged particles produced by neutron interactions, a neutron detection course should cover the fundamental concepts of neutron interactions as well as those of gammas and charged particles. In addition to interactions, the course will cover all methods of neutron detection; methods for determination of neutron energy; basic concepts of radiation counting statistics; principles and operation of common neutron detectors; specialized neutron detectors, and neutron dosimetry and dosimeters. The course stresses the development of a basic understanding of the principles of operation of neutron detectors and dosimeters, and helps develop an ability to inter-compare and select instrumentation best suited for different applications. It will provide an opportunity for those new to the field to gain a broad perspective of measurement options, and for practitioners to refresh their knowledge in areas outside their own specialties.

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