• Personnel present from Thomas Jefferson, LANL, RFP, Battelle Columbus, West Valley, BNL, ORNL, WIPP, LLNL, Fernald, INEEL, Y-12

• Different attendees shared information about their facilities. One of the major topics discussed involved the turnover or potential turnover of certain facilities to be under NRC oversight. It was mentioned that the calibration facility from Rocky Flats is being moved about 6 miles from where it is now and be commercial.
  Close to starting up the Alpha 7Ls at LANL. Field personnel are looking forward to the PRESCILA. Looking to do more with the many available E-600s at LANL, using more of the available capabilities.
• Rocky Flats new calibration building 790 will be dismantled. Sources and irradiators purchased by The Alpha Group and will continue to complete government contracts as well as look into commercial ventures.
• There was some discussion over the possibility of the NRC taking over administrative controls of DOE Labs/accelerator facilities.

• Paul was able to attend the meeting at NIST that contained breakout sessions to discuss traceability and standards in Homeland Security.
• Discussion included what, if any, should be HPIC’s role in "homeland security". Comments included concern regarding customers who are new to this business and need help to determine what they need. It’s a sellers market. Looking for Road Map for standards on instrumentation, pocket radiation, scanners, large monitors etc. They want to have the standards for this equipment on the street in less than one year.
• Questions included:
• Should HPIC offer assistance? Is this a potential funding source for HPIC? How the creation of the new department could affect participating membership of the HPIC’s charter?

• ANSI N323D – Final editing going on now approved to be issued soon (November)
• ANSI N42.17A – Peer review complete with positive comments, frustratingly slow
• ANSI 42.30
• ANSI 42.20 – EPD standard
• ANSI N323B – instruments at background, out for N42 vote with 1 negative (Pete)
• IEC 60325: Radiation protection instrumentation- Alpha, beta and alpha/beta contamination meters and monitors.
• IEC 60846: dose rate instruments
• New Homeland Standards
• ANSI N42.32: Dosimeters EPDs, quartz, neutrons and pagers
• ANSI N42.33: Portable survey instrumentation
• ANSI N42.34: Spectral oriented portable survey instrumentation
• ANSI N42.35: Portal monitors standard for boarders

• Tom went through a list of detectors that have been evaluated or are being evaluated by personnel at LANL. Some detectors mentioned included sandwich detectors, for example air and gas proportional to enable full collection of the alpha energy. Tom stated that a typical LANL RCT finds about 1500-dpm alpha (real world MDA).
• Tom mentioned some of their training techniques and desires, including the use of a "Wheel of Fortune" that moves a source or group of sources at a fixed speed of 2"/second. He stated that Wheel of Fortune results showed about 1500-2000 dpm were routinely found. They are planning to build a linear source table w/ pointer to show user the speed. Lastly, Tom reported that they use "Alfred the Phantom" (mannequin) to simulate contamination on a person.
• Tom stated that LANL requested that an instrument be rugged, reliable, cheap, and easy to decontaminate, and be able to detect 300 DPM Pu during routine frisk. Candidates included HP380, SHP-100, Harwell A92A and others.

• Acknowledged Ludlum for their efforts on PRESCILA development. The Eberline E-600 is the instrument of choice to interface with the PRESCILA detector due to its spillover correction ability.
• Routine production is expected in December 2002. Problems that have caused production delays include PMT selection and ZnS grain size.
• Calibration process works best when using AmBe for the neutron source.

• Tom showed "Palm"-based instruments and stated that we, the users, need to define what a "smart" instrument needs to do.

• Bill presented a published report regarding the beta calibration of Eberline RO-7s. This effort was done by an outside contractor for West Valley to address tank surveys

• Tom reported on work he had done at LANL to compare various alpha/beta scintillation detectors. He reported that efficiencies for alpha/beta are essentially the same. Uniformity w/ a 47mm diameter source looked OK w/ exception of HP-340 and HP-380. Regarding cross talk, this is something that the calibrator needs to ensure and that detector optimization is needed. Tom’s report included detector-specific results including detector uniformity and efficiency.

• Marsha presented a summary of WIPP’s investigation for upgrade of handheld contamination instruments. A handout was provided as well as a survey sheet for the attendees to complete.

• Perry presented web page information. Much discussion over information availability such as lists and numbers of instruments. LANL raised concerns over make/buy concerns and the potential use of information.
• It was decided to move all current information to a new section called "Historical Information". A new contact list with an optional inventory list will also be available.

• Dick reported on testing performed at LANL of both EPD models. He reported that each type was tested in its "as-found" condition (calibration by manufacturer). This wasn’t an issue for the Fuji model but was problematic for the Siemens unit.
• Differences were apparent for the Siemens models. It was stated that although each unit was different regarding energy response, the differences could be addressed through correction factors for each of the two sensors used in the EPD.
• It was concluded that the factory calibration would best be performed using AmBe. He also stated that to cover the neutron range a D2O moderated Cf source, a bare Cf source, and bare AmBe are the sources required for proper neutron calibration.
• Both models performed admirably on the gamma linearity test. Fuji excelled at estimating neutron dose when sufficiently exposed (>100 mrem). Other neutron specific results were reported.

• Pete reported on testing of EPD-Ns at ORNL. A group of EPDs were evaluated to various environmental conditions including temperature, temperature shock, relative humidity, shock, vibration, radio frequency, etc. The EPDs were also tested for gamma and neutron energy response. Problems were found with the neutron response in that the response was highly dependent on the calibration. Pete stated that the summary report is available on the Environmental Effects Lab web site.

• Reviewed issues with Siemens version 7 EPDs at Brookhaven. Paul stated that Siemens agreed to replace older versions and did so with similarly faulty units. Field failure rate was excessive.

• Paul Zahra (BNL) and Radoslav Radev (LLNL) volunteered and were selected by unanimous vote. Robert Murphy (LANL) and Robert Morris (Alpha Group) also volunteered.

• Siemens Mark 2.3s have had no failures to date. Calibration (verification of their performance) is typically performed using Cs-137 in both total dose and dose rate mode with no problems. In addition, total dose alarm and dose rate alarm are also checked. A single batch file is used for generic setups during calibration. Radoslav reported that they are generally satisfied and that problems exist regarding pulse response.

• Barry Wilson led the discussion. He listed the companies that now make up Thermo Electron RMP. He also presented the organization structure. Barry Wilson is now the North American Sales Manager. Scott Lamb is in charge of the Service division and Ron Ulbrich is the Marketing director. Mark Deacon has the product sales support for the contamination and monitoring instruments. All order entry will move to Santa Fe by end of Feb 2003. All US Instrument manufacturing will be in Santa Fe by end of March 03 (except TLD).
• Denny Cannon talked about products presenting information about the following instruments:
• HandeCount – Provided an overview of the instrument. Over 200 units were delivered in the US. They added EMI-RF shielding to the case. Redesigned slide because of light leaks. They also changed from the Palm IIIC to the Palm515 and changed some of the software to address field complaints.
• FieldSPEC – Has the ability to store and transfer up to 50 spectra. Denny stated that the unit does an automatic calibration on power up and adjusts the fine gain every 10 seconds. Able to have a 73-isotope library with the capability to add up to 10 user designed libraries. Range 10 urem/hr to 100 rem/hr. They will soon have the ability to set a single ROI for detection purposes.
• HFM-11 – Provided operational details and design specifics.

• Rich Palatine did the presentation. Provided background of Siemens Environmental Systems located in GA. He stated that the original EPD-N is still in production. He provided some background on the EPD-N. Stated that the EPD-N has advantages when used for power entries (Nuclear Power Plants) and as criticality monitors. The EPD-N2 is the next version that has significant changes including two detectors for neutrons, and a broader energy range for gamma (>25 keV). Claimed that the "2" has a flat response from thermal to fast neutrons. Palatine showed the response graph that LANL had showed earlier. The response graph had few data points especially on the low energy end of the spectrum. He compared the response to the EPDN response that contained more data points. He stated that the user couldn’t change the cal factors, only the multipliers. He also showed data from TA-55 that compared results from Aloka and TLDs. Described the calibration process stating that the calibrator can enter separate correction factors for each detector.
• Rich presented a wide area radiation detection system that is being used at Brooks AFB. The system is used for soil characterization for contamination using a series of Eberline NaI detectors.
• He also presented information about technology integration. His presentation described efforts that began at a power plant in PA where Siemens integrated various radiation systems using something called a universal transmitter.
• Fred asked about upgrading EPD-Ns to N-2s, which is possible. The EPD-N2s are available now with about a 3-week lead-time.

• Showed a Palm-based system that Ludlum is developing called a Model 4101. Part of the presentation included a unit connected to an alpha scintillation detector using a Palm simulator. The 4101 is an interface box between the Palm and the detector. The PDA display shows the calibration parameters for multiple detectors and then becomes the digital meter as the detector is used. The 4101 can be worn on the belt with the palm and detector connected. The 4101 can save the data to memory on the PDA as well.
  The presentation went through parameter entry and calibration. The effort going on involves LANL personnel. Ludlum reported that the software is going to be made available separately. This unit can replace an E-600 or scaler. Compilers are needed to use the system on other type of devices. This means that it could be used on the existing PCs in an HP office.
• PRESCILA status was unknown per Ludlum. They are not taking any orders other than from LANL.

• Canberra presented information about the Health Physics Product line limited to two neutron instruments and an EPD.
• The instruments presented included the:
• "DINEUTRON" – Mentioned that most of the spectrum is moderated (50 to 250 keV – LANL). The DINEUTRON provides dose equivalent and absorbed dose. The presenter stated that the instrument analyzes the neutron field characteristics and displays dose rate and integrated dose. The total weight is about 7 lbs. Measurements are performed using a dual sensor technique (He3 is one of the sensors). Both sensors are the same with differences in the diameter of the moderator. He showed an algorithm that combines the results to produce dose equivalence. They claimed an energy range of 0.025 eV to 14 MeV and a dose rate range of 0.1 mrem/hr to 10 rem/hr. The measurement accuracy is also displayed. Canberra claimed and energy response of 0.6 to 1.5 for a large variety of neutron spectra (Am-Be, Bare and moderated Cf252, PuO2, PuF4). He also discussed the units limitations – distance to source >3 ft, both sensor axis and surface are parallel, and each sensor must face the same neutron field. Gamma rejection at 100:1 at 1 rem/hr for Cs137, which is not as good as other "standard" neutron counters.
• "CRAMAL 31" – Used for "contact" measurements that may happen in transportation.
  The unit uses a cadmium screen that flattens some neutron energies but also cuts off the thermal response. It has an energy range of 2 keV to 15 MeV and weighs about 22 lbs.
• "Dosicard" – Gamma EPD with an energy range from 40 keV. Stated that the unit is "immune to walkie-talkie and mobile phones". Went through various operating specifics of the device. One of the capabilities included the ability to compress and store dose for long periods of time. Stated that the battery can last for up to 3000 hrs depending on set up and that the city of Baltimore is the largest user in the US (200 cards at this time).

• Presented information from Fuji and Technical Associates. Provided background of SOLTEC. Presented information on each of their neutron products.
• Model NRY21001, Gamma/Neutron EPD ($2200 est.) – Evaluated by LANL. Technical reports from FUJI (manufacturer) were offered through contact with SOLTEC (McIntyre). They also make a pocket pager Model NRP21 that is simple to use and measures gamma and neutron simultaneously.
  The presentation also included other neutron instruments including a Rem counter (17 lbs). It appears that most of the instruments will store measurement results. Another model is the FM-7REM that is a stationary neutron rem meter. It is BF-3 based and built by Technical Associates.
• SOLTEC also presented a MODEL DSI-2NT that incorporates a BGO detector. There are two versions that both have the ability to see gamma and neutron, one combined, the other separate (gamma and neutron) through the use of a selection switch.
  He presented information about their RAD-SCAN 7, 8, 9 that is a "non-invasive" external scanning device. It consists of 30 NaI that slowly scan a sea-land container.

• Presented a background of Hopewell’s involvement with DOE laboratories and other facilities including NIST, Mound, etc. R.O. provided a picture tour of each of the DOE labs that have installed Hopewell systems - INEEL, LANL, SRS, NIST and Brookhaven.

Recent detector developments at Jefferson Lab – Dan Dotson

• Dan presented information on the development of radiation detectors for use at SNS. He also talked about other detectors that he is looking at including Be7 and another neutron unit (Li6 and Li7) that makes use of a wavelength shifter. The detector he presented was ELEKON EPA-4408 Photodiode array.
• He also talked about a teleprobe without the pole. It makes use of three detectors and a laser range finder. The two side detectors are apparently angled and collimated in a way that enables their response to be compared with the center detector.

• Presentation was based on comparison tests that were performed with PNNL. He discussed PNNL’s calculation format for calibration of the neutron fields and corrections for anisotropy and room return. Dick also discussed and made recommendations to resolve a 20% bias found in a TLD inter-comparison with PNNL. The comparison tests were done using the WENDI neutron counter.
• Comments were also stated about the ability of a calibration facility to calibrate neutron instruments that make use of spectroscopic measurement techniques. The field used has to very well known.

• Presented information on the comparison of various detectors to high-energy neutron fields. The work was done at the Thomas Jefferson Accelerator facility. Data was recorded for 1, 2, and 3 GeV. His presentation included a Monte Carlo spectrum that was verified with some instrumentation. The "source" is a carbon target with a 100-uamp-electron beam. He used three different electronics packages. The SWENDI had the best response to high neutron energies. Dan stated that he has recommended SWENDI to replace boundary monitors at J-LAB. Three matched He3 detectors were used with the same electronics package so that each of the three detector bodies (Swendi, Hankins, and Anderson Braun) can be compared based on cpm.

• Tom began with an overview of the ROSPEC configuration and detector specifications. The unfolding program was explained at length.

• Fred reported on events surrounding a failure of the safety interlock system on the low scatter irradiator at Savannah River Site. He talked at length about the system’s design and recommended that all inspect their systems if made by Hopewell.

• Robert provided a pictorial tour of the new calibration facility at LANL.

• Byron presented a tour of the new lab at INEEL. Discussions that occurred during the presentation included neutron spectral changes and scatter caused by various equipment that had been installed on various irradiator systems.

• Presentation/discussion was developed over the need for a Safety Analysis Report (SAR). It was reported that LANL and SRS facilities did not require a Safety Analysis Report (SAR) however INEEL is required to by local rules. BNL is a radiological facility. Most interested parties agreed with LANL’s summary that calibration activities couldn’t be considered incidental and radiological requirements guide to 10CFR835 and 10CFR820.

• Dick led a discussion over the determination of uncertainty. He mentioned uncertainty in regards to the reference field and the instrument (stated in N323D). Comments were made raised about how different facilities address uncertainties. It appeared that most state uncertainty for the reference field.
• Other parts included the uncertainty of the NIST calibration, distance accuracy, algorithm for dose/distance calc., and nuclide half-life.

• Riasp did a live presentation of a system that was developed at Fernald using Microsoft Access. He went through each of the accessible parameters. A technician using Microsoft Access developed the database. It provides a complete record of repairs and parts used, location, owner and all instrument specific data. Several report formats and search routines were also available.

• This was a discussion presentation where all discussed techniques for calibration of spectroscopy-type instruments. Concerns were raised over the functionality of this type equipment. It was reported that Bechtel-Nevada has a project to evaluate various models. Pete Chiaro also reported on test results from some of the equipment tested at ORNL.

• No problems associated with change from 4 pi to 2 pi have occurred at SRS.
• Dick Olsher reported that he is working on a white paper about cpm, dpm, etc.

• Fred presented information about Savannah River’s release techniques. He talked about efforts regarding volumetric and surface contamination criteria. His presentation included their proposed release criteria.

• Bob presented information about issues surrounding the measurement of high levels of alpha surface contamination (reported contamination levels up to 480 million DPM/100cm2). At their request, Ludlum developed a 100cm2 air Ion Chamber and meter that can read out in millions of dpm. The low range is from 0.01 to 20 million dpm and the high range from 1 to 2 billion dpm.

• Background was provided as to the selection of counter systems for their existing units. SRS developed minimal technical and operational specifications. Fred listed the units evaluated. The HandeCount was selected and as of now, they have procured 106 units.
• Discussion followed over what others are using with some reporting the use of various detectors combined with E-600 count rate meters.

• It was reported that usage is lower than desired. Some concerns were raised over the appearance of being too "precise" (display indicating 4127 instead of 4000 or 4100).
• Fred reported that the Endura is holding up well with only 36 replaced over a period of 450 instrument years. He stated that each probe needs to be inspected upon receipt.
• During the discussions that followed, LANL reported that they are developing a joint instrumentation manual that will include elements of calibration and usage issues.Hal

• Tom accessed an operating Alpha 7L that he brought with him to the meeting. He stated that he was impressed with the MDA determined by the unit. Tom stated that the algorithm appears to work well, but he did state that users need to be aware of the RF problems.
• Tom reviewed the latest edition of the Alpha 7L. He highlighted the grill and shielded signal cable that together has helped the 7L performance in the field. The strobe on top was also changed when found to produce RF during operation.
• Tom stated that there was a change a few weeks ago to address fail relay indication.

• Pete shared his test of the Alpha 7L performed for LANL and the Alpha 7 for use at ORNL. Initial start was rough when the instruments would not work outside of the facility. The response to RF was troublesome due to the magnitude of the response (e.g. alarm). Eberline addressed problems and the instrument was eventually selected as the replacement alpha air monitor at ORNL.

• HPIC funds were discussed. Pete stated that the funds for the meeting are being held in an ORNL account and that there were no shortages with this meeting.

• Pete will finalize the Vendor letter with agreement from the new steering committee. The letter will show our appreciation for their attendance and the instruments they presented.

• Discussion concluded that future meetings would continue to be 3 days unless a facility tour is planned. Such tours can be planned as a breakout session.
• The next meeting is scheduled for Orlando, FL, or Las Vegas, NV. Possible time for the next meeting is either the last full week in October or 2^nd week in Nov.

• Homeland security instrumentation
• Vendors will be invited and encouraged to present on their instrumentation in this regards, letter will remind them that breaking technology is also welcomed.
• Topical Sessions suggested include:
• Tests performed on Homeland Security Instruments
• Instrument Calibration Issues
• Air Monitoring
• Personal Air CAM – Tom Voss
• Update on neutron detector -Dan Dotson
• Update on NRC regulation of DOE labs – Dan Dotson.