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Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material: Principles and Practices

1998; IOP Publishing; Volume: 18; Issue: 3 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1088/0952-4746/18/3/028

1361-6498

P T Underhill,

Graphite, nuclear technology, radiation studies

Although this book has a rather general title, the contents and emphasis are strongly orientated towards radiological protection in the oil and gas industry particularly in the USA, where the term NORM tends to be used in a rather specific sense. The first section therefore, on the origins of NORM sets the scene as it affects the industry, while subsequent sections deal much more generally with the physics and detection of radiation and with biological effects. The particular strength of the book lies, however, in the latter sections in which the extensive experience of the author in practical procedures and protection is used to provide many useful details and tips for a wide range of operational circumstances. The book has the merit of covering a very broad range of issues which provide a good starting point for further study, even including such topics as nuclear force, although some of the more complex issues are dealt with rather superficially. Some of the technical information may confuse readers: for example, it is noted that 75-80% of radon breathed is exhaled, whereas under normal conditions, essentially all inhaled radon will be breathed out again. Also, it is not clear what is meant by the dose associated with a typical chest x-ray being 80-100 mrem; this would seem to be an overestimate. Some information is presented about dose-response models that gives a helpful introduction to the principal issues. Readers will be able to follow up this information by reference to the reports that have been published since BEIR III. Other reports will also provide a greater insight into the developing issues surrounding the use of the ALARA principle and the use of annual limits on intake. The American origin of the book leads to a tendency to favour non-SI units and gives it a rather traditional feel, but the section on the status of NORM regulation in various American states provides an important and useful source of reference for those with operational responsibility for NORM management. In summary, the book provides a useful guide for those who require practical advice based on experience on how to work with and monitor NORM in an industrial environment, but will need to be supplemented if readers are interested in wider or more fundamental issues. Daryl Dixon The above review was first published in the NRPB Bulletin and is reproduced with the permission of the publishers.