Emergency Preparedness: Emergency Response Guide
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RADIATION SPILL
Follow S.W.I.M.S
STOP and THINK. Stop Working. Stop the Spill.
Assess the situation:
- How big is the spill?
- Has it made contact with your skin, personal clothing, or the floor?
- Does it have the potential to become airborne?
Warn Others
- If there is a medical emergency or danger to life, health or the environment, call x7911 or 9-911
- If there is no medical emergency or danger to life, health or the environment, call the Radiological Control Technician (RCT), or RCT back up, or x7277.
- Alert people nearby.
Isolate the Area
- Restrict access
- Determine the extent of the spill
- Tape or rope off the area. Keep doors closed
Monitor Yourself Carefully and Completely
- Change gloves.
- Monitor hands, sleeves, front of body and shoes (top & bottom)
- Remove contaminated clothing and place in a plastic bag.
- If contaminated, try to determine radioactivity level (CPM). Wash skin with mild soap and tepid water (catch rinse if possible)
- Check yourself for any chemical contamination or reactions (wet clothing, skin or respiratory irritation)
- For Medical Emergencies, follow directions under the PERSONAL INJURY tab
Stay In or Near the Area Until Help Arrives
- Minimize your movements
- Have person knowledgeable of incident assist Emergency Personnel
- Notify your Supervisor
Spill Categorization
Minor Spill of Radiological Material
A minor spill is one that occurs on the bench top and is contained within the Radioactive Material Area (RMA). Laboratory Staff can initiate cleanup prior to contacting the RCT for the area.
Major Spill of Radiological Material
A major spill is one that has made contact with the floor, personal clothing/skin or that spreads outside the Radioactive Material Area (RMA).
Immediately call RCT, RCT back up, or x7277.
