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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

INDUSTRIAL HYGIENE ASPECTS OF UNDERGROUND NUCLEAR WEAPON TEST DEBRIS RECOVERY

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:4668339
The formation of a collapse crater by underground nuclear explosions is described. Safety problems associated with the re-entry of underground nuclear explosion areas include cavity collapse, toxic gases, explosive gases, radioactive gases, radioactive core, and hazards from the movement of heavy equipment on unstable ground. Data irom television, geophones, and telemetered radiation detectors determine when radiation and toxic material surveys of the area can be made and drills can be used to obtain samples of the bubble crust for analysis. Hazards to persornel engaged in obtaining weapon debris samples are reviewed. Data are presented on the radiation dose received by personnel at the Nevada Test Site engaged in this work during 1962. (C.H.)
Research Organization:
Reynolds Electrical and Engineering Co., Inc. Health and Safety Div., Mercury, Nev.
NSA Number:
NSA-17-034149
OSTI ID:
4668339
Report Number(s):
CONF-84-2
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English