THE USE OF HELICOPTERS FOR EMERGENCY DISTRICT SURVEY AFTER AN ACCIDENTAL RELEASE OF RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL
The possible use of helicopters in carrying out rapid district gamma radiation surveys was studied using standard portabie equipment operated by regular health physics operations staff. Measurements have been made of radiation levels at various heights up to 1000 feet above point sources of iodine- 131 and caesium-137 and above arrays of iodine-131 sources. The results show than an area contaminated to a level of 0.4 c iodine-131/m/sup 2/ (corresponding to the imposition of emergency restrictions on milk consumption) can be readily detected using a scintillation ratemeter at a height of 50-100 ft. This sensitivity is similar to that which can be obtained using a fixed wing aircraft at 500 ft employing more elaborate techniques. The type of helicopter used is available as a continuous emergency service operated by the Royal Air Force. Operational flying tests have indicated the main problems whlch would be met during an emergency survey, and the advantages to be gained from the use of helicopters either in close support of a carborne survey or in areas where a carborne survey is impracticable. A suitable technique for such an aerial survey has been worked out and an agreement for assistance now exists between A.E.R.E. Harwell and R.A.F. Coastal Command. (auth)
- Research Organization:
- Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Harwell, Berks, Eng.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- NSA Number:
- NSA-17-025488
- OSTI ID:
- 4700544
- Journal Information:
- Health Physics (England), Vol. Vol: 9; Other Information: Orig. Receipt Date: 31-DEC-63
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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