The Army Radiation Safety Program

Department of the Army
Pamphlet 385–24

Safety

The Army
Radiation
Safety
Program

Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
30 November 2015

UNCLASSIFIED

SUMMARY of CHANGE
DA PAM 385–24
The Army Radiation Safety Program
This major revision, dated 30 November 2015-o

Adds a section for Inspector General inspections and audits (chap 1).

o

Clarifies the Laser Safety Program (chap 3).

o

Clarifies and expands guidance on the Electromagnetic Radiation Safety
Program (chap 4).

o

Clarifies and expands guidance for radiofrequency safety training (para 7-4).

o

Clarifies enhanced security requirements for category 1 and 2 radioactive
materials and aligns it with Part 37, Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations
(chap 8).

o

Adds Decommissioning Activities (chap 9).

*Department of the Army
Pamphlet 385–24

Headquarters
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
30 November 2015

Safety

The Army Radiation Safety Program
safety activities. This pamphlet does not
apply to nuclear weapons surety (AR
50–5). Active Army, Army National
Guard/Army National Guard of the United
States, and U.S. Army Reserve personnel
who violate this pamphlet are subject to
punishment under the Uniform Code of
Military Justice. Civilian and contractors
are subject to applicable civil or criminal
statutes.

History. This publication is a major
revision.
Summary. This pamphlet establishes
Army radiation safety procedures. It
provides guidance and direction to implement the safety requirements of AR
385–10 and other Federal regulations and
laws. It provides guidance and direction to
implement DODI 6055.08, DODI 6055.
11, DODI 6055.15, and DODI 5000.69. It
includes Army guidance for the use, licensing, transportation, disposal,
dosimetry, accident reporting, safety design, accountability of, and radiation exposure standards for ionizing and nonionizing radiation sources. This pamphlet
addresses peacetime, deployment,
redeployment, and wartime radiation

Contents

Applicability. This pamphlet applies to
the active Army, the Army National
Guard/Army National Guard of the United
States, and the U.S. Army Reserve, unless
otherwise stated. It also applies to all active duty Army military personnel at any
time, on or off a Department of Defense
installation; all Army civilian personnel in
a duty status, on or off a Department of
Defense installation; all Army contractors;
and all persons at any time on an Army
installation.
Proponent and exception authority.
The proponent of this pamphlet is the Director of the Army Staff. The proponent
has the authority to approve exceptions or
waivers to this pamphlet that are consistent with controlling law and regulations.
The proponent may delegate this approval
authority, in writing, to a division chief
within the proponent agency or its direct
reporting unit or field operating agency, in
the grade of colonel or the civilian equivalent. Activities may request a waiver to

this regulation by providing justification
that includes a full analysis of the expected benefits and must include formal
review by the activity’s senior legal officer. All waiver requests will be endorsed
by the commander or senior leader of the
requesting activity and forwarded through
their higher headquarters to the policy
proponent. Refer to AR 25–30 for specific
guidance.
Suggested improvements. Users are
invited to send comments and suggested
improvements on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and
Blank Forms) directly to the Office of the
Director of Army Safety (DACS–SF),
9351 Hall Road, Building 1456, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060–5860.
Distribution. This publication is available in electronic media only and is intended for command levels A, B, C, D,
and E for active Army, the Army National
Guard/Army National Guard of the United
States, and the U.S. Army Reserve.

(Listed by paragraph and page number)

Chapter 1
Introduction, page 1
Purpose • 1–1, page 1
References • 1–2, page 1
Explanation of abbreviations and terms • 1–3, page 1
Functions • 1–4, page 1
Deviations • 1–5, page 8

*This pamphlet supersedes DA Pam 385–24, dated 22 September 2011.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

UNCLASSIFIED

i

Contents—Continued
Chapter 2
Ionizing Radiation Safety, page 8
Army Radiation Safety Program • 2–1, page 8
Radiation safety key components • 2–2, page 8
General • 2–3, page 9
Control measures • 2–4, page 9
Nuclear Regulatory Commission licenses • 2–5, page 10
Army radiation authorizations • 2–6, page 10
Army radiation permits • 2–7, page 11
Army radiation safety record keeping • 2–8, page 14
Training • 2–9, page 14
Personnel monitoring • 2–10, page 14
Life cycle management for radioactive commodities and radiation generating devices • 2–11, page 14
Inventory and accountability • 2–12, page 15
Use and storage • 2–13, page 15
Internal and external program reviews • 2–14, page 15
Equipment calibration • 2–15, page 15
Survey instruments • 2–16, page 15
Radiation surveys • 2–17, page 15
Shipping, receiving, transferring, and transport • 2–18, page 15
Personnel Security Screening System • 2–19, page 16
Cargo and Vehicle Security Screening System • 2–20, page 16
Emergency response • 2–21, page 16
Foreign and captured material • 2–22, page 16
Range maintenance and disposal • 2–23, page 16
Handling and disposal of unwanted radioactive material • 2–24, page 17
Chapter 3
Laser Safety, page 17
General • 3–1, page 17
Military-exempt lasers • 3–2, page 18
Laser Safety Program • 3–3, page 18
Chapter 4
Electromagnetic Radiation Safety, page 19
General • 4–1, page 19
Measurement and evaluation of electromagnetic field from 0 Hz to 300 GHz • 4–2, page 20
Electromagnetic field controls • 4–3, page 20
Duties of the Radio Frequency Safety Officer • 4–4, page 21
Siting of commercial telecommunications equipment on Army installations • 4–5, page 21
Chapter 5
Radiation Safety Standards, Area Designations, and Contamination Limits, page 22
General • 5–1, page 22
Area designations • 5–2, page 22
Radioactive contamination • 5–3, page 22
Chapter 6
Special Reporting Requirements, page 24
General • 6–1, page 24
Other required reporting agencies and time requirements • 6–2, page 25
Radiological Accident/incident Report • 6–3, page 26

ii

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

Contents—Continued
Chapter 7
Training Requirements for Radiation Safety Officers, Laser Safety Officers, and Radiofrequency Safety
Officers, page 26
General • 7–1, page 26
Radiation safety officer training requirements • 7–2, page 26
Laser safety training requirements • 7–3, page 27
Radiofrequency safety training requirements • 7–4, page 28
Chapter 8
Enhanced Security Requirements for Radionuclides of Concern, page 29
General • 8–1, page 29
Radioactive Source Categories • 8–2, page 29
Unescorted access authorization • 8–3, page 31
Security of radionuclides of concerns • 8–4, page 32
Chapter 9
Decommissioning of Facilities, page 33
General • 9–1, page 33
Classification for decommissioning purposes • 9–2, page 33
Procedure • 9–3, page 33
Typical process for areas that leave Army control • 9–4, page 33
Typical process for areas that will not leave Army control • 9–5, page 35
Appendixes
A.

References, page 37

B.

Annual Radiation Safety Audit Checklist, page 46

Table List
Table 5–1:
Table 5–2:
Table 5–3:
Table 6–1:
page 25
Table 8–1:

Army personnel ionizing radiation exposure standards, page 23
Electromagnetic radiation, page 23
Screening levels for clearance, page 24
Army Materiel Command Nuclear Regulatory Commission commodity license radiation safety officers,
Radionuclides of concern, page 30

Figure List
Figure 2–1: Sample Army Radiation Permit, page 13
Figure 8–1: Unity rule for Category 2 sources, page 31
Glossary

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

iii

Chapter 1
Introduction
1–1. Purpose
This pamphlet contains technical requirements for developing management and control processes for operations
involving sources of radiation, and its implementation is necessary to meet the requirements of AR 385–10. Its
objective is to ensure the safe use of radiation sources and compliance with all applicable Federal and Department of
Defense (DOD) rules and regulations.
1–2. References
See appendix A.
1–3. Explanation of abbreviations and terms
See the glossary.
1–4. Functions
Based upon the responsibilities as defined in AR 385–10, the following organizations support radiation safety by
providing the following functions:
a. Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations Energy, and Environment). The ASA (IE&E)—
(1) Establishes overall Army environmental, safety, and occupational health policy that includes radiation safety.
(2) Maintains general oversight of, and serves as the advocate for, the ARSP and the Career Program 12 Safety and
Occupational Health Program, which covers job series 1306 Health Physicists.
b. Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs). The ASA (M&RA)—
(1) Establishes overall Army health and preventive medicine policy.
(2) Maintains oversight of medical and health aspects of the ARSP.
c. The Inspector General. The IG—
(1) Conducts radiation safety inspections and license compliance audits of the ARSP.
(2) Establishes standard inspection policies, procedures, and techniques for the conduct of these inspections and
audits to include periodic coordination and consultation with Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) offices
and Army organizations to help ensure a common understanding of regulations and guidance.
(3) Requests support from the Army staff and subordinate headquarters for the resources and expertise necessary to
ensure accomplishment of the technical inspection mission.
d. Director of Army Safety, Office of the Chief of Staff, Army. The DASAF—
(1) Chairs the Army Radiation Safety Council (ARSC) as the Army staff component providing oversight of the
ARSP.
(2) Provides Army guidance and procedures to implement requirements of—
(a) Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR).
(b) 21 CFR Food and Drug Administration (FDA), that covers electronic products, to include x-ray systems, lasers,
and electromagnetic radiation producing devices from 0 Hz to 300 GHz to include radio frequency (RF) systems:
(c) 29 CFR.
(d) 32 CFR 655.10.
(e) 40 CFR.
(f) 49 CFR.
(g) Department of Defense Instruction (DODI) 6055.08.
(h) DODI 6055.11.
(i) DODI 6055.15.
(j) DODI 5000.69.
(3) Administers, directs, and integrates risk management (RM) in accordance with AR 385–10, DA Pam 385–30,
and ATP 5–19.
(4) Appoints in writing the Army Radiation Safety Officer (ARSO), the Army Laser Safety Officer, and the Army
Radiofrequency Radiation Safety Officer.
e. Commanding General, U.S. Army Materiel Command. The CG, AMC—
(1) Exercises administrative control over U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licenses and Army radiation
authorizations (ARAs) for Army radioactive commodities within AMC’s purview. This function is routinely managed
by AMC major subordinate commands (MSCs). This includes, but is not limited to—
(a) Acquires, amends, and maintains NRC licensees for radioactive commodities.
(b) Exercises administrative control over licenses.
(c) Coordinates NRC license correspondence with applicable commands and the ARSO.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

1

(d) Ensures reporting license violations to the NRC by the appropriate subordinate command that is the NRC license
holder in accordance with 10 CFR and notifying the ARSO.
(e) Performs or coordinates license compliance audits for activities that use AMC-licensed radioactive commodities.
(f) Coordinates with U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), U.S. Army Medical Command
(MEDCOM), and applicable licensees to ensure training materials meet NRC license conditions.
(2) Provides personnel dosimetry services through the Army Dosimetry Center (ADC). The Chief, ADC (in
accordance with 10 CFR 20.1501(d), AR 385–10, DA Pam 385–25, and this pamphlet)—
(a) Publishes instructions for starting, maintaining, and ending personnel dosimetry services.
(b) Maintains the Army’s Central Dosimetry Records Repository (CDRR). The CDRR archives comprehensive
dosimetry records for all Army personnel and for other personnel who use Army dosimetry services. Records must
meet the requirements of 10 CFR 20.2106, 10 CFR 20.2110, and OSHA 1910.1096(b)(2)(iii). Records include results
of bioassays, administrative dose assignments (including copies of documents that make the assignments), and supplementary occupational dose equivalent information (for example, dosimetry information resulting from off-duty employment) that radiation safety officers (RSOs) reports. In particular, the ADC must meet the requirements of 10 CFR 20.
2106(f) for long-term retention of these records.
(c) Provides personnel dosimetry records (automated dosimetry report) to RSOs for all personnel who received
dosimetry services during the previous calendar quarter. These reports enable supported RSOs to meet all recordkeeping requirements in 10 CFR 20.2106.
(d) Provides reporting services that enable RSOs to meet all requirements of 10 CFR 19.13, 29 CFR 1910.1096(n)
and (o), and 29 CFR 1926.53.
(e) Provides reporting services that meet the requirements of 10 CFR 20.2206.
(f) Immediately notifies (by telephone or message) the RSO, the radiological hygiene consultant to The Surgeon
General (TSG), the command Radiation Safety Staff Officer (RSSO), and the ARSO when dosimetry results indicate
that any Army personnel ionizing radiation exposure standard (see table 5–1) may have been exceeded.
(3) Provides Army low-level radioactive waste disposal services (by the Army Low-Level Radioactive Waste
Disposal Division, U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command, Safety/Rad Waste Directorate, AMSJM–SF, Rock Island, IL
61299–6000). In addition—
(a) Establishes procedures for implementing the Army’s responsibility as DOD lead agency for unwanted radioactive material disposal.
(b) Maintains records of all Army radioactive waste disposal by burial or recycling.
(4) Provides the Army radiation test, measurement, and diagnostic equipment program and accredited radiation
instrument calibration services (see AR 750–43 and Technical Bulletin (TB) 750–25).
(5) Assumes responsibility in the event of an NRC violation or radiation accident at a facility involving AMClicensed radioactive materials (RAMs) that result in NRC Escalated Enforcement Action against an AMC commodity
licensee, any resulting administrative civil penalty is shared between AMC and the responsible command as mutually
agreed between their respective radiation safety offices, based on an evaluation of the nature of the alleged violations
and penalty assessment.
(6) Ensures that foreign military sales of RAM, items that contain RAM, radiation generating devices, and militaryexempt lasers comply with applicable U.S. regulations and DOD directives.
(7) Appoints, in writing, an AMC RSSO to help oversee the AMC Radiation Safety Program (RSP).
(8) Resolves radiation issues among AMC commands as necessary.
f. The Surgeon General. TSG—
(1) Approves and provides radiation dose limits and deviations to previously published dose (DA Pam 385–25 and
AR 385–10) to the ARSO for promulgation as necessary (see para 1–4m(3)).
(2) Provides Army staff supervision on the medical aspects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation injury.
g. Commanding General, U.S. Forces Command. The CG, FORSCOM—
(1) Ensures command compliance with conditions of NRC licenses and ARAs, including AMC-held radioactive
commodity licenses (see para 2–1b). The CG should use a memorandum of agreement or similar mechanisms to clarify
the relationship between the U.S. Army Headquarters (Army commands (ACOMs), Army service component commands (ASCCs), direct reporting units (DRUs), and the NRC license holder.
(2) Designates, in writing, a trained RSSO.
(3) Issues ARAs (see para 2–3).
(4) Establishes and employs, as applicable, procedures to ensure that captured, purchased, borrowed, or otherwise
obtained foreign equipment and materiel is surveyed for RAM and that appropriate actions are taken following
discovery of any RAM in those items.
(5) Maintains the RSP by:
(a) Establishing review and approval procedures for integrating RM in accordance with AR 385–10, DA Pam
385–30 and ATP 5–19.
(b) Ensuring, for programs under their purview, that each NRC license, Army reactor permit, ARA, and RSP is

2

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

reviewed annually and inspected periodically for compliance with applicable radiation safety and health regulations and
guidance. These inspections should be performed at a frequency commensurate with the associated hazard, but not to
exceed 3 years. These services may be provided by U.S. Army Public Health Command (USAPHC).
(6) Ensures a laser safety program is in place for the command and appoints a properly trained laser safety officer
(LSO) in writing to manage the program. Maintain the Laser Safety Program by:
(a) Tracking DOD military-exempt lasers to ensure compliance with the FDA military exemption (FDA exemption
no. 76EL–01DOD), proper disposal of DOD military exempt lasers that are not classified in the interest of national
defense, and ensuring lasers are brought into compliance with the FDA regulations.
(b) Disposing unusable lasers or laser parts to the Defense Reutilization and Marketing Service for utilization
screening within DOD (see DOD 4160.21–M–1).
(7) Ensures an electromagnetic radiation safety program is in place and appoints a properly trained radiofrequency
safety officer (RFSO) in writing to manage the program (see AR 385–10).
h. Commanding General, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command. The CG, TRADOC—
(1) Integrates appropriate radiation safety training in military occupational specialty and specialty skill identifier
producing courses.
(2) Makes available radiation safety training modules for deploying and deployed personnel about protection from
U.S. and foreign ionizing and non-ionizing radiation sources (including depleted uranium (DU) munitions) that may
expose Army personnel to radiation during deployment (see AR 385–10).
(3) Provides short courses to qualify unit, garrison, installation, Army National Guard (ARNG), and U.S. Army
Reserve (USAR) RSOs. (For the purposes of this pamphlet, short courses are 3 weeks or less in duration) (see AR
385–10).
(4) Coordinates training material with the appropriate Army commodity licensees and MEDCOM to ensure NRC
and ARA compliance with training materials.
i. Commanding General, U.S. Medical Command. The CG, MEDCOM—
(1) Makes available radiation safety training modules for deploying and deployed personnel about health hazards of,
protection from, and medical treatment of injuries caused by U.S. and foreign ionizing and non-ionizing radiation
sources (including DU munitions) that may expose Army personnel during deployment.
(2) Provides, with services available from the USAPHC on a reimbursable basis, RSP assessment services for
garrison surveys to assist and ensure NRC license, Army reactor permit, ARA holder regulatory compliance or Federal/
Army regulatory compliance. Establishes, when required, appropriate occupational health surveillance programs for
personnel occupationally exposed to radiation.
(3) Performs health hazards assessments of commodities and systems that emit radiation or contain RAM as early as
practical in development and before fielding (see AR 40–10).
(4) Provides, with services available from USAPHC, radiation bioassay services (see AR 40–5 and DA Pam
385–25) that comply with criteria of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) N13.30).
(5) Provides medical support for investigations of alleged radiation exposures in excess of established limits (see
DODI 6055.05, DODI 6055.08, DODI 6055.11, DODI 6055.15, and DA Pam 385–25).
(6) Coordinates training material with AMC commodity licensees, ARA holders, and TRADOC to ensure field
compliance with AMC NRC licenses and ARAs.
j. Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management. ACSIM—
(1) Provides oversight for all radioactive contamination surveys conducted in support of base closure or installation
restoration activities as per AR 385–10.
(2) Ensures closure surveys are conducted in accordance with applicable state, local, and NRC requirements.
Implementation guidance is found in the Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM)
and agreements with regulatory agencies.
(3) Coordinates surveys with the responsible NRC license holder and ARA holder.
(4) Ensures contamination surveys solely releasing areas where AMC NRC license radioactive commodities were
used follow chapter 9 guidance for surveying radioactive commodity sites.
k. Commanding General, U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command. Ensures that the National Ground Intelligence Center provides expertise as required to properly identify foreign radiological sources and equipment known to
contain radioactive sources.
l. Commander or Director Army command, Army service component command, direct reporting unit. Each ACOM,
ASCC, DRU commander and director—
(1) Ensures command compliance with conditions of NRC licenses and ARAs, including AMC-held radioactive
commodity licenses (see para 2–1b). Considers using memorandum of agreement or similar mechanisms to clarify the
relationship between the Army Headquarters ACOMs, ASCCs, DRUs, and the NRC license holder.
(2) Designates, in writing, an RSSO who is properly trained and qualified (see chap 7).
(3) Issues ARAs (see para 2–3).
(4) Establishes and employs, as applicable, procedures to ensure that captured, purchased, borrowed, or otherwise

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

3

obtained foreign equipment and materiel are surveyed for RAM and that appropriate actions are taken following
discovery of any RAM in those items.
(5) Maintains the RSP by—
(a) Establishing review and approval procedures for integrating RM into all operations involving radioactive
materials in accordance with AR 385–10, DA Pam 385–30 and ATP 5–19.
(b) Ensuring the RM process is executed before conducting radioactive materials operations.
(c) Ensuring, for programs under their purview, that each NRC license, Army reactor permit, ARA, and RSP is
reviewed annually and inspected periodically for compliance with applicable radiation safety and health regulations and
guidance. These inspections should be performed at a frequency commensurate with the associated hazard, but should
not to exceed 5 years.
Note. Applicable radioactive commodity licensees may require more frequent inspections. These services may be provided by the IG
or USAPHC.

(d) Ensuring, that in the event of an NRC violation or radiation accident at a facility involving AMC-licensed RAMs
that result in NRC escalated enforcement actions against an AMC commodity licensee, any resulting administrative
civil penalty is shared between AMC and the responsible command as mutually agreed between their respective
radiation safety offices, based on an evaluation of the nature of the alleged violations and penalty assessment.
(6) Ensures a laser safety program is in place for the command if Class 3B and Class 4 lasers are in use, and appoint
a properly trained LSO, in writing, to manage the program.
(a) Tracks DOD military-exempt lasers to ensure compliance with the FDA military exemption (FDA exemption no.
76EL–01DOD). Dispose of DOD military exempt lasers that are not classified in the interest of national defense and
have usable lasers or laser parts through utilization outside of the DOD, through donation or sale only after ensuring
that the laser is brought into compliance with the FDA regulations or the purchaser requests a variance from the FDA,
or in the case of foreign military sales, the latest guidance from the FDA is followed.
(b) Disposes of unusable, classified lasers or laser parts to the Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services for
utilization screening within DOD (see DOD 4160.21–M–1).
1. Maintains accountability during the screening period. (Losing and gaining organizations transfer excess directly
between themselves.)
2. Identifies requirements for usable parts and returning them to the supply system after utilization screening has
been completed.
(7) Ensures an electromagnetic RSP is in place, if necessary, and appoint a properly trained RFSO in writing to
manage the program (see AR 385–10).
m. Commander or director. Each commander or director—
(1) Designates, in writing, a RSO when any of the following is true:
(a) An NRC license, Army reactor permit, ARA, or applicable technical publication requires an RSO to be
appointed.
(b) Requires personnel in the command to wear ADC-issued dosimetry (see para 5–1d).
(c) Requires personnel in the command to participate in a bioassay program (see para 5–1e).
(d) A deployable unit possesses radioactive commodities or radiation emitting equipment that requires the implementation of an RSP (for example, leak testing, radiation postings, and shipping requirements).
(2) Designates, in writing, an LSO when any of the following is true:
(a) The activity operates, maintains, or services a Class 3B or Class 4 Laser System (see ANSI Z136.1).
(b) The activity operates, maintains, or services military-exempt laser systems.
(3) Designates, in writing, an RFSO whenever there are RF or electromagnetic radiation (EMR) sources from that
exceed the exposure reference levels (ERLs) limits of IEEE C95.1–2345.
(4) Ensures that when paragraphs 1–4l(1), 1–4l(2), and 1–4l(3) of this pamphlet requires the designation of an RSO,
LSO, or RFSO—
(a) The RSO, LSO, or RFSO designee is trained (and periodically retrained, as necessary) to a level commensurate
with the RSP scope and responsibilities (see chap 7).
(b) The RSO, LSO, and RFSO ensures that the command’s written radiation safety policies and procedures are in
compliance with applicable Federal, DOD, and Army radiation safety regulations and directives. These documents
include emergency reaction plans, as necessary, and procedures for investigating and reporting radiation accidents,
incidents, and over exposures (see chap 6).
(c) The RSO, LSO, and RFSO ensures that they or an internal or external agent or agency audits the RSP annually
and copy furnishes the garrison RSO and the command RSSO.
(5) Ensures all personnel occupationally exposed to radiation receive appropriate radiation safety training commensurate with potential workplace hazards.
(6) Maintains an inventory of licensed or authorized ionizing radiation sources, Class 3B, Class 4, and militaryexempt lasers, and EMR sources from 0 Hz to 300 GHz that can exceed the ERL of IEEE C95.1–2345, Army reactor

4

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

permits, ARAs, and technical publications. Inventories must be updated annually or more often if required by NRC
license conditions or local procedure. A copy of the inventory will be furnished to the garrison RSO annually (or more
frequently if necessitated by inventory changes) and to the command RSSO.
(7) Establishes written policies and procedures to ensure compliance with radiation safety requirements in applicable
technical publications governing the use of radioactive commodities, lasers, and EMR sources from 0 Hz to 300 GHz
(see para 2–3b(1)).
(8) Establishes radiation safety committees (RSCs) required by technical publications or conditions of an NRC
license, Army reactor permit, or ARA, in accordance with AR 385–10.
(9) Oversees the integration of RM into the ARSP.
(10) Reports radiation accidents and incidents when required by AR 385–10, DA Pam 385–40, 10 CFR, or 49 CFR
to the chain of command, the command RSSO, the appropriate NRC license holder, and the garrison RSO.
n. Commander, garrison. Each garrison commander—
(1) Designates as necessary, in writing, a garrison RSO who is properly trained and qualified (see chap 7).
(2) Establishes an RSC for the senior commander as proscribed in AR 385–10.
(3) Prepares and maintains historical records of locations of use or storage of RAM on the installation and the
responsible activity for that use or storage (see para 2–8c).
(4) Maintains documentation listing locations categorized as “RF controlled environments” where potential
electromagnetic field (EMF) exposures to personnel above the action level could occur, as per DODI 6055.11 and
chapter 4, below.
(5) Issues Army radiation permits (ARPs) (see para 2–7 and AR 385–10).
(6) Obtains radiation safety resources from outside the command by contracting, memorandum of agreement, or
memorandum of understanding, as necessary, to meet the garrison RSP requirements, if the organization lacks organic
capability.
(7) Maintains an inventory of radiation sources as higher headquarters directs and in accordance with requirements
of NRC licenses, Army reactor permits, ARAs, and technical publications. Inventories are updated annually or more
often if required by NRC license conditions or local procedure.
(8) Establishes written policies and procedures to ensure compliance with radiation safety requirements in applicable
regulations and technical publications governing the use of radioactive commodities (see para 2–3b(1)).
o. Army radiation safety officer. The ARSO—
(1) Oversees the ARSP on behalf of the DASAF.
(2) Develops, manages, and promulgates Army radiation safety policy and guidance on behalf of the DASAF.
(3) Promulgates Federal and Army radiation safety personnel exposure standards within the Army in coordination
with the radiological hygiene consultant to TSG.
(4) Provides HQDA oversight of the DOD executive agency for low-level radioactive waste, to include matters
concerning DU on behalf of the ASA (IE&E).
(5) Resolves radiation safety issues among U.S. Army Headquarters as necessary.
(6) Promotes good radiation safety practices throughout the Army.
(7) Provides radiation safety consultation to the DA staff, U.S. Army Headquarters commanders and staffs.
(8) Serves as HQDA radiation safety point of contact with other DOD and Federal agencies.
(9) Represents HQDA on DOD RSCs, working groups, and panels.
(10) Provides technical input to HQDA-level radiation safety plans and responses to radiation emergencies, accidents, and incidents.
p. Radiation safety staff officers. The ACOMs, DRUs RSSOs—
(1) Ensures implementation of Army radiation safety policy within their respective areas of responsibility.
(2) Oversees their command’s RSP.
(3) Establishes radiation safety policy for their respective areas of responsibility.
(4) Provides radiation safety consultation to their respective command and leadership chains, staffs, and to subordinate commanders and staffs.
(5) Coordinates reporting of radiation accidents and incidents involving RAM or radiation generating device (RGD)
with the applicable licensee or permit holder.
(6) Serves as their organization’s radiation safety point of contact.
q. Army service component command radiation safety staff officer(s). The ASCC RSSO—
(1) Serves as the principal advisor to the commander, ASCC and staff on RSP issues.
(2) Provides centralized, theater-level oversight and guidance to health physics/radiation safety personnel and/or
radiological response teams.
(3) Manages transition-to-war and transition-to-peace radiation safety issues involving radioactive commodities,
RGD, radiation survey instrument calibration, radiation safety training, DU training, radiation dosimetry, laser safety,
and RF radiation safety.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

5

(4) Monitors the oversight of and guidance on DU issues, to include friendly fire incidents, battle-damaged vehicle
recovery, and contamination.
(5) Provides guidance on damaged radioactive commodities and coordination with continental United States (CONUS)-based NRC license holders.
(6) Evaluates reports from health physics and radiation safety personnel and radiological response teams, and
guidance to the command staff in the event of a radiological or nuclear event.
(7) Ensures radiological detection equipment, sampling equipment, and personnel dosimetry are used, stored, and
maintained in accordance with applicable technical manuals (TM) and guides.
(8) Designs and directs the implementation and execution of the radiation survey program (other than combat
surveys for nuclear weapon fallout).
(9) Conducts comparisons of radioactive survey sampling results against preset action levels and communicates
survey results and analyses to the command staff.
(10) Provides guidance radiation safety redeployment issues involving radioactive commodities, unwanted radioactive material, and radioactively contaminated vehicles and equipment, including, when applicable, foreign radioactive
sources.
(11) Coordinates with medical support on the identification and follow up of Soldiers potentially contaminated with
radioactive sources to include DU.
r. Nuclear Regulatory Commission license radiation safety officer. Each NRC license RSO—
(1) Within each AMC Life Cycle Management Command (LCMC) is a designated health physicist (HP) who is
assigned to manage the command’s NRC license.
(2) The NRC License RSO authority extends to different Commands and other Services.
(3) Their duties include:
(a) Provide oversight in implementing NRC license conditions for a particular licensed device.
(b) Prepare NRC license applications and amendments for submission to the NRC.
(c) Determine the proper radiological controls to assure the As Low as Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) policy is
being followed.
(d) Perform NRC license inspections to ensure compliance.
(e) Coordinate with various level RSOs from different commands and other Services to ensure license compliance
and provide technical assistance.
(f) Coordinate with other AMC LCMCs and program management offices to ensure proper demilitarization.
s. Garrison radiation safety officer. Each garrison RSO—
(1) Establishes and directs the garrison RSP (to include a written RSP document).
(2) Assists units, tenants, civilian activities, and contractors on the installation to meet requirements of NRC licenses
and ARAs for radioactive commodities. In particular, the garrison RSO—
(a) Assists units and tenants with radiation safety training support.
(b) Reports accidents or incidents involving Installation Management Command (IMCOM) activities or units to the
applicable NRC licensee and the IMCOM RSSO (see para 6–1).
(c) Advises on appropriate radiation source inventory control and security of the material.
(3) Notifies the affected mission commander and the AMC RSSO (Army Materiel Command Radiation Safety Staff
Officer, 4400 Martin Road, Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898) when a building or area that currently or formerly contained
radioactive commodities is scheduled for demolition or no longer contains radioactive commodities. This process
provides stakeholders with appropriate notification for decommissioning actions as necessary.
(4) Administers the garrison ARP program (to include maintaining records of ARP applications and ARPs issued by
the garrison commander) (see para 2–7 and AR 385–10).
(5) Administers the garrison RSC, if applicable.
(6) Documents, stores, retains, and preserves garrison RSP records properly, including radiation contamination
survey reports in accordance with AR 25–400–2, to ensure availability during decontamination and decommissioning
of facilities.
(7) Coordinates as necessary with mission RSOs, medical officials, and emergency response personnel (both military
and civilian, if appropriate) to establish plans and procedures for responding to credible radiation emergencies on the
installation.
(8) Coordinates with the medical authority on occupational monitoring requirements for garrison radiation workers.
(9) Provides training, guidance, and technical support to garrison security forces and fire departments with fixed or
portable radiation detection systems, or mobile imaging systems used for force protection purposes.
t. Radiation safety officer, laser safety officer, or radiofrequency safety officer. Each RSO, LSO, or RFSO, including
the garrison RSO, provides the following functions, for radiation sources within their organization’s responsibility:
(1) Performs or be responsible for the performance of all radiation safety functions that are applicable to Federal,
DOD, and Army regulations and NRC licenses, Army reactor permits, and ARA condition requirements.

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(2) Properly documents, stores, retains, and preserves RSP records, including annual physical inventories and
radiation and contamination survey reports, to ensure availability during decontamination and decommissioning.
(3) Establishes plans and procedures for handling credible emergencies involving radiation and RAMs. This includes
coordination with civilian and military emergency response organizations as necessary.
(4) Coordinates with supporting medical personnel to ensure that personnel receive appropriate occupational health
surveillance (see AR 40–5).
(5) RSOs with laser safety responsibilities, assume the responsibilities of an LSO as listed in ANSI Z136.1, except
for occupational health responsibilities. The RSO or LSO assists the occupational health physician as necessary in
meeting laser occupational health responsibilities.
(6) RFSOs, assume the duties of an RFSO as listed in Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) C95.
7. The RFSO assists the occupational health physician, as necessary in meeting RF occupational health responsibilities.
u. Unit radiation safety officer. Each unit RSO—
(1) Receives instruction on the types of radioactive commodities, ionizing radiation producing devices, lasers, and
EMR sources from 0 Hz to 300 GHz within the unit.
(2) Provides user-level training in the radiation safety aspects of radioactive commodity use, laser safety, and EMR
sources from 0 Hz to 300 GHz safety or ensures users receive required training.
(3) Develops and maintains a unit standing operating procedure (SOP) for storage, inventory, tracking, and leak
testing of radioactive commodities, materials, or sources and response to broken and damaged radioactive sources.
Develops and maintains a unit SOP for safe operation, storage, inventory, tracking, accident reporting, and disposal
requirements for Class 3B and Class 4 lasers, and EMR sources from 0 Hz to 300 GHz that could potentially exceed
the ERL limits.
(4) Manages the inventory of radioactive commodities, ionizing radiation producing devices, Class 3B and Class 4
lasers, and EMF sources that could exceed ERL limits for the unit and establishes controlled areas as required by
chapter 5.
(5) Conducts annual or as required by NRC license conditions, physical inventories of RAM and forwards the
inventory to their commander, applicable ARA manager, applicable NRC licensee, and the garrison RSO.
(6) Coordinates with the serialization officer to ensure that applicable transactions are entered into the DOD
Radiation Testing and Tracking System database in accordance with AR 710–3 as required. While deployed, tracking
per AR 710–3 is not required.
(7) Stores and secures radioactive commodities, secured by two independent permanent physical locks, the location
properly posted when not in use, and away from flammables/explosives. While deployed, the unit RSO stores and
secures radioactive commodities consistent with mission, enemy, terrain, troops, time, and civil considerations.
(8) Conducts surveys of storage areas, as required by the appropriate NRC license.
(9) Performs (or have performed by direct support units) periodic leak tests, as required.
(10) Establishes and maintains a Personnel Dosimetry program as per DA Pam 385–25 (when required).
(11) Conducts transportation surveys and ensures that radioactive commodity shipments are certified by a qualified
hazardous material shipping official when required.
(12) Provides shipping information, to include appropriate exposure rate and contamination levels, to the transportation officer or hazardous material officer prior to shipment.
(13) Investigates accidents or incidents involving lost, stolen, broken, damaged radioactive commodities, materials,
and sources or malfunctioned safety devices of radioactive commodities.
(14) Coordinates with medical authorities to follow up on possible personnel exposure to RAM.
(15) Secures and stores damaged radioactive commodities, materials, and sources properly.
(16) Reports accidents and incidents to the garrison RSO, command RSSO and the affected NRC license RSO.
(17) Reports lost or damaged radioactive commodities, materials, and sources in accordance with DA Pam 385–40
and AR 385–10, (filling out DA Form 285–AB (U.S. Army Abbreviated Ground Accident Report) and a report of
survey as required).
(18) Initiates request for disposal of damaged device through the garrison, command RSSO, and NRC license RSO.
(19) Maintains RSP records.
(20) Maintains “ACTIVE” (health and safety calibrated) radiation detection, indication, and computation instruments
required to perform mandated surveys.
v. Responsibilities of the users of U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensed radioactive commodities.
(1) User maintenance involving the radioactive sealed source is not authorized. Perform only authorized maintenance on equipment containing licensed (specific or general) radioactive material.
(2) Have knowledge of TMs, TBs, and manufacturers operating manuals for all radioactive commodities regardless
if they are under a specific license, general license, or exempted by the NRC.
(3) Use safe handling procedures at all times when using radioactive commodities as prescribed in operating
manuals and TMs.
(4) Recognize when radioactive commodities are damaged.
DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

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(5) Ensure the emergency and reporting procedures in DA Pam 385–40 are followed when there is an incident or
emergency. A lost or damaged device is considered an incident that requires immediate notification to the applicable
Army NRC license RSO.
(6) Bulk storage of radioactive commodities should be properly posted with a caution radioactive materials sign.
Contact the specific Army NRC license RSO for the commodity for proper posting requirements.
(7) Do not store radioactive commodities with non-radioactive devices.
(8) Areas that need to have contamination surveys performed should be in accordance with NRC license conditions.
License conditions always take precedence over what is noted in TBs or TMs.
1–5. Deviations
a. The following personnel may authorize deviations from ARSP requirements on the advice of their RSSO.
(Deviations from personnel radiation exposure standards require the approval of TSG and the DASAF).
(1) The CG of each ACOM, ASCC, and DRU.
(2) The Director, IMCOM.
(3) The Superintendent, U.S. Military Academy.
(4) The Chief, National Guard Bureau (NGB). The Chief, NGB may sub-delegate deviation authority to the State
Adjutants General.
(5) The Chief, Army Reserve (The Chief Army Reserve may sub-delegate deviation authority to MSC commanders,
but no lower than the first O–8 in the chain of command).
b. As a minimum, submit the following information to request a deviation:
(1) Reference to the specific standard and to the specific paragraph under which the waiver or exception is being
requested.
(2) Reasons why the standard cannot be met.
(3) Interim measures used that compensate for the inability to comply with the standard.
(4) Action being taken to meet the standard and the estimated date the action can be completed.
(5) Statement of the impact, if the waiver or exception is not approved.
c. The approval authority may grant deviations for 1 year or less. The approval authority may extend authorized
deviations in increments of 1 year or less provided conditions cited in the original deviation remain the same.
d. Any accident or incident occurring under an approved deviation results in immediate termination of the approval
until the approving authority completes an investigation and the TSG and DASAF revalidates the deviation.
e. Requests for deviations from Federal and DOD regulations and standards require the endorsement of the DASAF,
and in the case of radiation exposure standards, TSG. Forward requests for deviations to Federal or DOD radiation
safety regulations through command channels to the Office of the Director of Army Safety (DACS–SF), 9351 Hall
Road, Building 1456, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060–5527. Copy furnish the Army NRC license RSO or ARA holder.

Chapter 2
Ionizing Radiation Safety
2–1. Army Radiation Safety Program
The Army ionizing radiation safety program includes radioactive materials and RGD, An example is an x-ray
generating device. The Army ionizing sources are governed by the U.S. NRC radioactive material licenses or ARAs.
The ultimate goal of the ARSP is to keep radiation exposure ALARA to Soldiers, civilians, contractors, the general
public, and the environment in accordance with 10 CFR 20.1003.
2–2. Radiation safety key components
As part of the Army Safety Program, a radiation safety function consists of management and control processes
addressing all aspects of the following key components as applicable.
Note. The mandatory components for a solid RSP include inventories, training, surveys (including leak tests), and audits/inspections.

a. General Army radiation safety.
b. Control measures.
c. NRC licenses.
d. Army radiation authorizations.
e. Army radiation permits.
f. Army radiation safety record keeping — to include decommissioning records.
g. Training.
h. Personnel monitoring — to include external dosimetry and bioassay.

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i. Radiation safety lifecycle management.
j. Inventory and accountability.
k. Use and storage.
l. Internal and external program reviews.
m. Equipment calibration.
n. Survey instruments.
o. Radiation surveys.
p. Shipping, receiving, transferring, and transport.
q. Cargo and personnel security screening systems.
r. Emergency response.
s. As applicable garrison support of tenants and contractors.
t. Military operations support.
u. Foreign and captured material.
v. Range maintenance and disposal.
w. Decontamination survey guidance.
x. Handling and disposal of unwanted radioactive material.
2–3. General
a. AR 70–1 and DA Pam 385–16 apply to developmental and non-developmental materiel containing radiation
sources (including commercial off the shelf equipment). Follow the guidance of DA Pam 70–3 and DA Pam 40–11 and
ensure a reevaluation of the equipment is made if substantial modifications are made between the initial evaluation and
final acceptance or adoption.
b. Compliance with NRC regulations and NRC licenses, Army reactor permits, ARA, and Army ARP conditions is
required. Copies of the licenses, authorizations, and permits should be provided to USAPHC and posted on the DA
RSO Web site https://cecomsafety.apg.army.mil/RSO2/darso_tree.aspx?tg=rso.
(1) Army personnel using RAM (including industrial radiography sources) are to comply with all applicable NRC
regulations and conditions of NRC licenses, ARAs, and ARPs held by their command or by another command.
(2) Holders of NRC licenses, ARAs, and ARPs have programs in place to ensure all personnel using RAM,
radiation sources, or emergency responders that may encounter radiation, are aware of applicable regulations and
conditions as appropriate.
(3) Radiation exposures not governed by the NRC are governed by OSHA. For Army radiation exposures, the dose
limits of this pamphlet apply when more restrictive than OSHA regulations.
c. The RSO and alternate RSO must be appointed in writing at all levels. Designation of an alternate RSO is an
effective means to ensure program continuity and command and control of radiation sources in the absence of the
primary RSO. It is desirable that the RSO be fully qualified prior to appointment. However, if operational circumstances interfere with the training, the RSO is to be fully qualified within 90 days.
d. A qualified expert is required to design, review, and test shielding of barriers and controls for access to radiation
areas, high radiation areas, and very high radiation areas. The qualified expert must perform these procedures per
applicable regulations and guidelines before routinely using radiation sources within the area. Each design for high
radiation and very high radiation areas must receive an independent review by a qualified expert designated by the
ARSO, Command RSSO, or an American Board of Health Physics certified HP designated by the ARSO.
e. Adopt no practice and conduct no operation involving planned exposure of personnel to ionizing radiation in
excess of the applicable exposure standards of table 5–1 (other than deployment operations governed by operational
exposure guidance).
f. Environmental requirements are in the following guidance, 32 CFR 651, 40 CFR, and AR 200–1.
g. Outside the continental United States (OCONUS) control of radiation sources will be in conjunction with host
nation authorizations, Status of Forces Agreements (SOFA), Army regulations, international agreements, NRC licenses,
and ARAs, as applicable.
2–4. Control measures
a. The installation or activity commander with the guidance of the RSO must design, select, use, and maintain
radiation exposure control measures to ensure that anticipated and actual occupational doses are maintained ALARA
and do not exceed the limits specified in table 5–1. The following guidance may be helpful in achieving this objective
and may be developed for specific categories of workers or work situations:
(1) Development of a formal ALARA program with occupational personnel dose equivalent investigational levels as
specified in DA Pam 385–25.
(2) Radioactive contamination trigger levels, found in table 5–3, within ionizing radiation source use areas, signal
the need for further investigation, recording, intervention, and mitigation.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

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b. An annual radiation safety audit checklist is in appendix B to assist commanders and RSOs in evaluating key
radiation safety controls.
2–5. Nuclear Regulatory Commission licenses
a. The NRC licenses special nuclear, source, and byproduct material in the U.S. and its possessions. In 2007, the
NRC expanded the definition of byproduct material to include accelerator produced and naturally occurring radioactive
material.
b. Send applications for new licenses, license renewals, and license amendments through command channels to the
command RSSO, as appropriate, for review and concurrence to the NRC.
(1) The CG of each U.S. Army headquarters may allow subordinate commanders to forward applications directly to
the NRC without U.S. Army headquarters review. The CG, designated executive of the Army command, or the
subordinate commanders, or directors signs the license application. The applicant will provide a copy of the application
to the command RSSO, the ARSO, and the USAPHC for tracking and archival purposes. Applicant organizations are
responsible for the NRC licensing fees.
(2) When compliance with conditions proposed in the application requires efforts of personnel of another command,
obtain a concurrence from an authorized representative of that organization. Commands utilize the AMC commodities
in accordance with their intended purposes. The RSO needs to ensure coordination with commands involved.
(3) The applicant or ACOM RSSO provides a copy of all correspondence relating to NRC license and amendment
applications to the U.S. Army RSO and to the U.S. Army Public Health Command, Health Physics Program
(MCHB–IP–OHP), 5158 Blackhawk Road Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010–5403 for archiving, to include
environmental documentation required by 32 CFR 651.
(4) Tenant/mission commanders must provide a copy of each NRC license and ARA (including all amendments)
possessed by their command, to the garrison commander.
c. Army personnel may communicate ARSP concerns directly to the NRC without restriction. Personnel are
encouraged to first report concerns to the chain of command for resolution. Guidance on communicating with the NRC
is provided on the NRC Form 3.
d. When contract employees perform Army radiation work in U.S. Army facilities, on U.S. Army installations,
under the auspices of any Army NRC license, the contract must contain specific requirements tying the contract
workforce to Army NRC license conditions and other administrative requirements of the ARSP. Contractors work
under their own NRC licenses for Government-owned contractor-operated facilities versus working under Army NRC
licenses. Contractors may not work under the auspices of any Army NRC license in non-Army facilities, or at off-post
locations unless under the direct supervision of an Army RSO and if the work is authorized by the NRC license.
e. The RSO, who is named on an NRC license, must be qualified in accordance with NRC guidelines. The RSO
should have at least 1 year of experience of managing an NRC license or supporting an NRC license RSO prior to
being named the Army NRC license RSO. The Command RSSO reviews and approves the RSO prior to submission of
the license application or amendment to the NRC. The Command RSSO notifies the ARSO of any changes in the NRC
license RSO.
2–6. Army radiation authorizations
a. The Army uses ARAs to control ionizing radiation sources that the NRC does not license (including RGD that
emit ionizing radiation).
b. The Army’s ARA program is similar to the NRC’s licensing program. The Army applies NRC regulations and
guidance, modified as necessary, in its control of ARA ionizing radiation sources. Most ARA conditions are similar to
standard NRC license conditions.
(1) When an ARA applicant for a radioactive material program possesses an NRC license to which ARA RAM use
can be linked, the application need only reference the NRC license. The issued ARA that references an NRC license
may incorporate the expiration date and all conditions of the NRC license.
(2) The NRC’s regulations regarding license-exempt concentrations (see 10 CFR 30.14) and quantities by isotope
(see 10 CFR 30.18) are applied similarly to ARA exemption upon HQDA approval. Applicants for such exemptions
send supporting documents through command channels to the Director of Army Safety, DACS–SF, 9351 Hall Road,
Building 1456, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060–5860.
c. An ARA is required for all sources not regulated by NRC except—
(1) Byproduct, source, or special material that the NRC has declared to be license-exempt (see 10 CFR 30, sections
30.14 through 30.20; 10 CFR 40, sections 40.13, 40.14, and 40.11; and 10 CFR 70, section 70.14) or generally licensed
(see 10 CFR 31; 10 CFR 40, sections 40.20 through 40.28; and 10 CFR 70, section 70.19). Devices purchased under
general license authority do not require an NRC license to be obtained by the Army, but require the Army to operate
under procedures established by the manufacturer. This includes that the material cannot be transferred within the
Army, without prior coordination with the manufacturer. If the Army does not follow the general license of the
manufacture then the Army is in violation of the NRC general license. It is recommended that generally licensed
materials used by the Army be covered under an ARA by the command that owns the material.

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DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

(2) Less than 0.1 microcurie (Ci) (3.7 kilobecquerels (kBq)) of radium.
(3) Electron tubes containing less than 10 Ci (370 kBq) of any naturally occurring or accelerated produced
radioactive material (NARM) radioisotope.
(4) RGDs not capable of producing a high radiation area or very high radiation area (for example, 1 mSv (100
millirem) in one hour at 30 centimeters from any surface of the device). However, commanders establish policies and
procedures to ensure that design and use of these excepted sources are in compliance with applicable radiation safety
regulations and guidelines and that only appropriately trained and authorized personnel operate them. Training records
and inventories of RGDs are kept by the RSO overseeing the Radiation Safety program. Organizations operating cargo/
vehicle screening systems are issued an ARA from the Command RSSO. Contractors using Army owned x-ray systems
on an Army installation must be issued an ARA from the Command RSSO. Contractors using their x-ray systems on
Army land need an ARP, trained personnel, and a radiation safety program must be in place to be in compliance with
32 CFR 655.
(5) Diagnostic x-ray systems (including medical, dental, and veterinary).
(6) Army nuclear reactors and Army reactor-produced RAM that remains at the reactor site are permitted by the
Army Reactor Office (see AR 50–7).
d. In special cases where NRC general license requirements attach to centrally purchased radioactive devices, the
CG, of the ACOM, issues an ARA to ensure that the general license requirements are met, the provisions of paragraph
2–6c(1) notwithstanding. In the case of centrally purchased RGD, the CG, AMC, can issue an ARA to ensure that the
safety requirements are met.
e. Commanders forward applications for new ARAs, ARA renewals, and ARA amendments through command
channels to the appropriate Army command for approval. The ARA application is to be signed by the CG or appointed
signature authority that may include subordinate commanders and directors.
(1) Use DA Form 3337 (Application for Army Radiation Authorization) (locate the form on the Army Publishing
Directorate Web site at http://www.apd.army.mil) for new ARAs. Use either DA Form 3337 or a memorandum that
refers to the original DA Form 3337 for ARA renewals and amendments.
(2) When compliance with conditions proposed in the application requires efforts of personnel of another command,
obtain a concurrence from an authorized representative of that command (see para 2–5a(2)).
(3) The RSSO ensures that applications meet appropriate regulatory and advisory guidelines before sending approval
through command channels to the applicant.
(4) Tenant commanders provide a copy of each ARA, including all amendments, to the garrison commander.
f. The issuing Army headquarters commander is the termination authority for ARAs issued by the Army headquarters. The ARA can be terminated in one of two ways—
(1) An ARA that is linked directly to an NRC license terminates concurrently with the NRC license, providing that
all of the ARA radioactive material and radiation devices and use areas are appropriately dispositioned in accordance
with the terms of NRC license termination plan.
(2) An ARA that is not linked to an NRC license follows the same general course as terminating NRC licenses. A
termination plan approved by the commander and director is required. The RSSO is advised to consult USAPHC or the
ARSO for guidance.
g. The RSSO provides a copy of all correspondence relating to ARA applications and terminations to the U.S. Army
Public Health Command, Health Physics Program (MCHB–IP–OHP), 5158 Blackhawk Road, Aberdeen Proving
Ground, MD 21010–5403 for archiving.
h. Implementation of an RSP in support of an issued ARA is reviewed annually. If materiel under an ARA is not
handled according to the specified requirements, the Command RSSO is notified for corrective action. If the corrective
action is not implemented in a timely manner, the ARSO is contacted for resolution.
2–7. Army radiation permits
a. Non-military agencies (including vendors and civilian contractors) require an ARP to use, store, or possess
ionizing radiation sources on an Army installation (see 32 CFR 655). Non-Army applicants apply by completing the
ARP Form, see figure 2–1 for the ARP application form, including supporting documentation (see para 2–7d) to the
garrison commander. The letter should be submitted so that the garrison commander receives the application at least 30
days before the requested start date of the permit (see AR 385–10). (For the purpose of this paragraph, ionizing
radiation source means any source that, if held or owned by an Army organization, would require a specific NRC
license or ARA.)
b. The ARP application specifies the start and stop dates for the ARP and describes the intended use of the ionizing
radiation source. For sealed sources, an affirmation that leak test requirements are current is included in the application.
The garrison commander approves the application only if the applicant provides evidence to show that one of the
following is true:
(1) For installations that maintain exclusive Federal jurisdiction, and installations in NRC non-agreement states, the
ARP applicant must possess one of the following that allows the applicant to use the source as specified in the ARP
application:

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

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(a) A valid NRC license.
(b) A Department of Energy (DOE) radiological work permit (for work performed under DOE regulations).
(c) A State radioactive material license with an NRC reciprocity agreement. The ARP applicant establishes reciprocity by submitting an NRC Form 241 (Report of Proposed Activities in Non-Agreement States, Areas of Exclusive
Federal Jurisdiction or Offshore Waters) to the NRC in accordance with 10 CFR 150.20. The NRC limits work
performed under a reciprocity agreement to 180 days in a calendar year. Otherwise, an NRC license is required.
(d) The NRC or State radioactive material license must specifically authorize the planned use of the material.
(e) If applicable, a copy of the sealed source device registry is required prior to approval.
(2) For installations that maintain concurrent jurisdiction with the state, and are located in NRC agreement states,
the ARP applicant must possess one of the following that allows the applicant to use the source as specified in the ARP
application:
(a) A state radioactive material license (issued by the state in which the installation is located).
(b) An out-of-state license with host-state reciprocity. The ARP applicant establishes reciprocity by notifying the
host state radioactive materials licensing authority before work commences, and complying with host state reciprocity
requirements. Some states limit work under a reciprocity agreement to 180 days in a calendar year.
(c) The ARP applicant establishes reciprocity by notifying the host state radioactive materials licensing authority
before work commences, and complying with host state reciprocity requirements. Some states limit work under a
reciprocity agreement to 180 days in a calendar year.
(d) A DOE radiological work permit (for work performed under DOE regulations).
(3) The garrison commander should consult the installation staff judge advocate or director of public works to
ascertain the jurisdictional status of the area on the installation where the ARP applicant will use the radiation source.
(On some installations, jurisdiction varies by location on the installation.)
(4) RGDs, the applicant must have an appropriate state authorization that allows the applicant to use the source as
specified in the ARP application and can provide documentation that the applicant has in place a RSP that complies
with Army regulations, to include training documentation of their personnel and confirmation that National Voluntary
Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) accredited dosimetry is to be used for the work covered under the ARP.
Cabinet x-ray systems that are compliant with 21 CFR 1020.40 do not require an ARP to be brought onto an Army
installation, but the garrison RSO must be notified prior to the cabinet x-ray being brought onto the installation.
(5) For overseas installations, the applicant has an appropriate host-nation authorization as necessary that allows the
applicant to use the source as specified in the ARP application and has in place an RSP that complies with Army
regulations. Applicants will comply with applicable SOFAs and other international agreements.
c. All ARPs require applicants to remove all permitted sources from Army property by the end of the permitted
time.
d. The ARP application should consist of the following:
(1) A letter applying for an ARP with supporting documentation.
(2) A copy of the NRC license that permits use or storage of radioactive sources, equipment, and devices at Army
bases, garrisons, and installations. A copy of a DOE radiological permit with documentation showing that it is valid for
the location and operation. A copy of an Agreement State License and if provided, then documentation to show the
license is valid on Federal Property. This is usually NRC Form 241, Report of Proposed Activities in Non-Agreement
States, Areas of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction with the NRC in accordance with 10 CFR 150. If work is covered by
NRC Form 241, then the work is limited to 180 days in a calendar year, otherwise an NRC license is required. If
exempt from NRC licensing or under general licensing, proof of exemption or general licensing must be provided. For
NARM, the contractor must provide appropriate NRC or State authorization that allows the contractor to use the
radiation emitting sources, equipment, and devices. The licensing must show operational use conditions and restrictions
with expiration date.
(3) The documentation must specify the start and stop dates for the ARP and describe why the applicant needs the
ARP (Proposed Work Statement).
(4) Provide the portion of their contract that identifies the location(s) that the source will be used, the length of time
required for the source, and the type of use for the source.
(5) A copy of the company RSP.
(6) A current list of trained and qualified employees using the radiation emitting sources or radiation generating
equipment and their training records.
(7) The name of the contractor RSO and emergency contact telephone number.
(a) Operating instruction(s) and technical order(s) for the equipment that contains the radioactive source, provide an
indication of whether the sources, equipment, and devices are to be stored on-site overnight and how it is to be stored
and secured.
(b) Designated storage location and how it will be secured if the radioactive source remains overnight.
(c) Proposed marking of the storage location if it exceeds two mR/hr as measured at the surface of the storage
container.

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(d) How the sources, equipment, and devices will be stored and secured during lunch hour and breaks.
(8) How exposure to contractors and Government personnel will be controlled and that NVLAP accredited
dosimetry is used for dose of record.
(9) Emergency Response Plan in case of an emergency for a lost or damaged source, equipment, and device and
over exposure incident and injury.
(10) Current leak tests on radiation sources, equipment, and devices.
e. Figure 2–1 is a sample of the garrison commanders response to an ARP request. 32 CFR 655.10 permits ARPs to
be granted for up to one year. It is the responsibility of the contractor performing the work under the ARP to be
responsible for applying and receiving a NRC license if work exceeds more than 180 days out of a calendar year and to
be in compliance with each individual states reciprocity agreements.
f. If a contractor does not have a valid ARP on Army lands, contact the garrison RSO and the contracting officer.
Work should be discontinued until a permit is obtained.

Figure 2–1. Sample Army Radiation Permit

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

13

2–8. Army radiation safety record keeping
a. NRC licenses conditions for retention of records must be met before considering Army Records Information
Management System (ARIMS) guidance.
b. ARIMS AR 25–400–2 provides guidance for filing of radiation safety records and proper record disposition
requirements.
c. The ARIMS Records Retention Schedule-Army contains the guidance on radiation safety files. Visit RSS–A at
the following Web site address: https://train.arims.army.mil/RRSA/SearchResults.aspx. Log in using your common
access card. Use the search tab and type in the keyword section "radiation." Radiation safety files are under 900A
Emergency and Safety. There are two categories 0–6 and 6. (plus) years for retention. Click "Search Crosswalk" on the
left side of the Web page. Then select the "900 Series: Emergency and Safety." This then provides you the file
numbers using the AR 385–10. Click on 900A Safety and then it opens into the 385–10 file numbers with their
descriptions. A file structure example is 900A 385–10r1 “Ionizing radiation source accounting records.” It is recommended that these files are to be kept 75 years. Contact the ARIMS representative at your organization for information
about creating electronic RSP files electronic.
d. Decommissioning records follow the guidance provided below.
(1) Holders of NRC licenses will establish and maintain decommissioning records in accordance with 10 CFR 30.
35(g), 10 CFR 40.36(f), and 10 CFR 70.25(g).
(2) Holders of ARAs establish and maintain decommissioning records similar to those that the NRC requires.
(3) Tenants holding NRC licenses and ARAs provide information about the location of use and storage of RAM to
the garrison commander for the installation RAM history records (see para 1–4l(3)).
2–9. Training
Training requirements are covered in chapter 7.
2–10. Personnel monitoring
Occupational personnel radiation safety monitoring is covered in DA Pam 385–25.
2–11. Life cycle management for radioactive commodities and radiation generating devices
a. The overarching goal of the Life cycle Management program is to provide the U.S. Army the radioactive material
and radiation producing devices to support the U.S. Army mission. To do this effectively, the RSP has to have
accountability of the radioactive material at all times. Proper training and procedures must be in place to use
radioactive materials efficiently, effectively, and safely. Training includes proper handling of radioactive materials,
inventorying, surveying, and leak testing with calibrated equipment for accurate results and audits of the program, In
addition, training must be conducted to ensure proper movement of materials, proper disposal procedures, and
processes to ensure radioactively contaminated areas are properly decontaminated and decommissioned for future use.
b. Acquisition of material containing radioactive material is covered in AR 70–1 and DA Pam 70–3. Provided below
are a few considerations for the acquisition community when considering the use of radioactive materials.
(1) Separate national stock numbers that use radioactive material from non-radioactive versions.
(2) Serial numbers should be used to identify each radioactive source.
(3) Propose not procuring radioactive items if non-radioactive items are available.
(4) Require life cycle costs to be covered (for example, disposal, leak/wipe testing, training, dummy device for
training procurement, and inspections).
(5) Plan for disposal, one for one replacement, cost versus benefit analysis, and a tracking system.
c. Acquire approval from the Army NRC license holder prior to acquisition.
d. The Army controls the distribution and accountability of radioactive material and radiation producing sources
through the use of NRC licenses, ARAs, and ARPs. An ARA is used to control specific Army ionizing radiation
sources that the NRC does not license. An ARP is used to control non-military agencies bringing ionizing radiation
sources onto Army lands. Radioactive material must be controlled through either of these distribution and accountability mechanisms, unless the material is specifically listed as an exempt quantity (see 10 CFR 30.71, schedule B). If a
radioactive source exceeds the exempt quantity amount, a license from the NRC must be obtained prior to receiving the
material. These licenses normally take 6 to 12 months to obtain. Some systems require a sealed source and device
registration that is required prior to even applying for a NRC license.
e. Material with smaller quantities may be exempt (see 10 CFR 30.71) or be licensed by the manufacturer as
generally licensed material (see 10 CFR 31). Generally licensed items do not require additional NRC licensing, but do
require the Army to comply with procedures established by the manufacturer. Transfers of generally licensed items
within the Army also require prior coordination with the manufacturer.
f. Regardless of the type of acquisition cycle or the point at which a radioactive item enters the acquisition process,

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a NRC license or ARA has to be in place to support the acquisition activity except for exempt radioactive materials. If
a system enters the acquisition process, the system developer must work with Army Test and Evaluation Command or
AMC to ensure the item is supported. This needs to happen as soon as the material is identified as containing
radioactive material or produces radiation. This is especially true for commercial off the shelf items.
2–12. Inventory and accountability
Inventories of licensed or authorized ionizing radiation sources (radioactive materials and RGD) will be made in
accordance with the NRC license conditions or ARA conditions. The unit RSO or activity RSO is responsible for the
inventory. Inventories are provided to the garrison RSO annually and to the command RSSO upon request.
2–13. Use and storage
Use and storage of radioactive materials will be in accordance with the NRC license, ARA, ARP, TB, and TM
guidance.
a. Posting. The NRC provides guidance on posting storage and work areas based on the amount of material and the
dose rates emitted by the device. NRC license applications describe when and what posting is required. Radioactive
material signs are prohibited for RGD use. Hazard warning signs for RGD operations are prohibited for use to identify
radioactive material storage locations.
b. Security. All radioactive sources are to be secured against unauthorized use or removal. Radioactive sources
exceeding International Atomic Energy Agency category II require additional security procedures as identified in
chapter 8.
2–14. Internal and external program reviews
Reviews are conducted periodically in compliance with NRC licenses or ARAs. As a minimum, an internal review is to
be performed annually. An external review is recommended biennially.
2–15. Equipment calibration
a. Laboratory instruments require dedicated calibration and check sources. Quality control procedures must be in
place to ensure that the equipment is functioning correctly, and the calibration is traceable to the National Institute of
Standards and Technology. Calibrating organizations shall adhere to the requirements of ANSI N323 and AR 750–43.
b. Calibration sources are of a type and activity appropriate for the intended use of the instrument.
c. Calibrate radiation survey instruments used for health or safety purposes at least annually (or as specified in TB
43–0180) using Natural Institutes of Standards and Technology traceable radiation sources (see TB 750–25).
2–16. Survey instruments
a. An adequate number and type of radiation survey meters and monitoring devices will be available to support the
RSP. The RSO must maintain at least two survey instruments of each type used to accommodate maintenance and
calibration downtime.
b. Radiation survey instruments should be response-checked with an appropriate check source before and after use.
Fixed, walkthrough, portal, or step-in contamination monitors are response-checked on a routine basis sufficient to
ensure satisfactory operation and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. A log should be maintained to
document these checks.
2–17. Radiation surveys
a. Radiation surveys are performed to ensure dose rates and contamination levels are within regulatory limits and
meet ALARA goals. Radiation surveys to ensure NRC license compliance are performed in accordance with procedures published by the NRC licensee. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulation (NUREG) 1556 series of
publications also provide information on radiation surveys.
b. Radiation surveys performed to ensure facilities and work surfaces are in compliance with AR 385–10 and NRC
regulations are semi-permanent records and maintained as directed by AR 25–400–2. A copy is maintained at the
facility and by the garrison RSO to assist in future closeouts. These records normally have a disposition of the life of
the facility plus 75 years.
c. Background measurements must be conducted at locations similar to those being surveyed. The background level
is recorded in units of measurement to be used during the survey. The background is subtracted from the survey results
to determine actual radiation dose rate or contamination level.
2–18. Shipping, receiving, transferring, and transport
a. Transfer radioactive material to authorized persons only.
b. Transfer, sale, or donation of Army radioactive commodities and items will be in accordance with NRC general
license requirements, DOD, Army technical publications, and applicable instructions established by the holder of the
Army NRC commodity license or ARA.
c. For all shipping of RAM, the shipper must obtain and retain appropriate evidence that the receiver is authorized
DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

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to possess the material (for example, a copy of the recipient’s ARA or NRC or Agreement State license) before
shipping the RAM.
d. Domestic shipments of RAM will be in accordance with applicable NRC (see 10 CFR 71), DOT (see 49 CFR),
and DOD 4500.9–R (Part II) requirements. International shipments of RAM will be in accordance with the requirements of the International Air Transport Association Section 10, and the International Maritime Organization and
International Maritime Dangerous Goods regulations.
e. Report lost or damaged shipments of radioactive commodities to the responsible NRC license, ARA, or ARP
holder immediately.
f. Class 7, Type A packaging may require additional controls and security. Refer to the applicable NRC license for
specified requirements.
2–19. Personnel Security Screening System
a. The ARSP for Personnel Security Screening System (PSSS) will conform to ANSI N43.17–2002 The annual
effective dose to an individual subject to irradiation by PSSS are limited to 25 mrem (0.25 millisieverts (mSv)) for a
single source or venue. Additionally, the following requirements apply:
b. General-use systems produce an effective dose per screening of 0.025 mrem (0.25 ?Sv) or less. Due to the low
effective dose per screening, these systems can be used without regard to the number of individuals scanned or the
number of scans per year. No special precautions are required for pregnant women or children. Check manufacturers
specifications for determining the type of PSSS installed. If further assistance is needed, consult ANSI N43.17 and the
command RSSO.
c. Limited-use systems produce an effective dose per scan greater than 0.01 mrem (0.1 Sv), and less than 1.0 mrem
(10 Sv). Users of PSSS in this category ensure that subjects do not exceed 25 mrem (0.25 mSv) per year as a result of
scanning with a given source or at a given venue. Alternative means should be considered for the screening of pregnant
women and children. Check manufacturers specifications for determining the type of PSSS installed. If further
assistance is needed, consult ANSI N43. 17 and the command RSSO.
2–20. Cargo and Vehicle Security Screening System
a. Cargo and Vehicle Security Screening Systems are intended for scanning cargo and vehicles and are not designed
for personnel scanning. Under normal operating circumstances, these systems are operated in such a manner that avoids
intentionally scanning personnel. In circumstances where there is an external threat, such as vulnerability to sniper fire,
cargo screening systems may be used as limited-use systems as described in paragraph 2–19c. Screening may be
accomplished with a combination of engineering controls and administrative controls.
b. Radiation source based cargo and vehicle security screening systems have the potential to exceed the aggregate
quantities limits as described in paragraph 8–2 when more than one device is stored in the same location. Such
aggregation requires implementing the increased security controls as described in chapter 8.
2–21. Emergency response
a. The RSO supports all radiation safety matters for the on-scene-commander, typically the fire chief, who coordinates the emergency response effort.
b. The RSO provides radiation safety training to the fire department and emergency response personnel. Emergency
response training should be conducted annually or when there is a significant change to the radiation safety emergency
response plan.
2–22. Foreign and captured material
The Army does not have a central license holder for foreign radioactive sources. Individual units or installations
possessing foreign radioactive sources are required to obtain a license from the NRC in accordance with 10 CFR or an
ARA if the radioactive material is not covered by the NRC.
2–23. Range maintenance and disposal
a. All range maintenance and disposal actions follow the guidance in DODD 4715.11 Environmental and Explosives
Safety Management on Operational Ranges within the United States and DODD 4715.12 Environmental and Explosives Safety Management on Operational Ranges Outside the United States.
b. Range maintenance and disposal actions follow the guidance in the NRC licenses or ARA that cover the
radioactive material on the range.
c. Appropriate fire symbol, chemical, and radiological hazard symbol shall be displayed in such a manner as to be
easily visible from all roads of approach. Radiation symbols should conform to the American National Standard on
Radiation Symbol, ANSI/HPS N2.1–2013.
d. Environmental safety operations where dusts, vapors or gases are present, an industrial hygienist, must evaluate
the hazard to determine whether respirators are needed. Identify the appropriate type of respirators in the equipment
listed for that operation. No hazardous materials of any kind or hazardous waste will be placed in trash receptacles

16

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

destined for the sanitary landfill without prior approval. All waste must be inspected prior to disposition. Ensure
compliance with regulatory documents such as Environmental Assessment. Environmental Impact Statements or
Environmental Radiological Monitoring Plan. Ensure the monitoring methods are sufficient to detect to levels required
by NRC license conditions.
2–24. Handling and disposal of unwanted radioactive material
a. Army generators of unwanted radioactive material will implement a plan to reduce unwanted radioactive material
volumes to the extent practicable. Where feasible, a single radioactive waste storage point should be established on the
installation.
b. Do not store radioactive materials with personnel, explosives, flammables, food products, or other incompatible
commodities. Items with radioactive gas or radium will be stored in ventilated structures. Storage areas and containers
will be marked in accordance with 10 CFR.
c. Burial of radioactive waste on Army or DOD-owned or DOD-leased property is prohibited.
d. The U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command is responsible for disposal of Army unwanted radioactive material.
Waste generators will coordinate with and obtain the approval of the Chief, Army Low-Level Radioactive Waste
Disposal Division, U.S. Army Joint Munitions Command, AMSJM–SF, Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, IL
61299–6500, for all disposals of DOD unwanted radioactive materials (including approval for the off-site storage,
packaging, shipment, treatment, and final disposition of unwanted low-level RAM). Managers of special projects that
generate unusually large amounts of radioactive waste (that is, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers environmental restoration projects) may arrange for radioactive waste disposal as part of the project. However, project managers will
coordinate DOD radioactive waste disposal actions with the Chief, Army Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal
Division (see para 1–4d(3)).
e. The release of RAM into the atmosphere or to the sanitary sewerage system will comply with all applicable NRC
and EPA regulations, and applicable state or local requirements.
f. If allowed by applicable regulations or by NRC licenses, Army reactor permits, or ARA conditions, RAM may be
held for decay and subsequent disposal without regard to radioactivity. However, disposal of such material may still
require special handling as hazardous waste.
g. Overseas units will comply with the applicable SOFA.

Chapter 3
Laser Safety
3–1. General
a. Laser devices will comply with the provisions of the Radiation Safety Performance Standards issued by the FDA,
Center for Devices and Radiological Health, 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 as required by DODI 6055.15, DOD Laser
Protection Program. Combat, combat training, and laser devices classified in the interest of national security will
comply with 21 CFR to the greatest extent possible (see para 3–2).
b. All Army Commands responsible for acquiring laser systems must establish laser safety programs that follow the
requirements of DODI 6055.15 and DODI 5000.69 DOD Joint Services Weapons and Laser Systems Safety Processes
for all laser systems that are considered joint programs. Joint programs are laser system fielded by two or more DOD
components, and one of those components is the U.S. Army.
c. A qualified expert is to design, audit, and maintain Army laser safety programs (see para 3–3). Perform these
procedures per applicable regulations and guidelines before routinely using laser sources within an approved area.
d. Military-exempt lasers (see para 3–2) will comply with laser safety design requirements in MIL–STD 1425A
(also found in ANSI Z136.6).
e. Army laser range safety guidance is in DA Pam 385–63 and MIL–HDBK 828B.
(1) Lasers intended for ground to ground or air to ground operations and are not above the horizon do not need
additional clearance for use.
(2) Lasers aimed above the horizon need further evaluation by a qualified expert to determine if clearance from the
Laser Clearing House is required.
f. Use of any military-specific laser or any commercial off the shelf laser on an Army range is permitted only if a
Joint DOD or USAPHC laser safety hazard evaluation has been performed, documented, and signed for that specific
model of laser.
(1) A partial list of lasers that have a laser safety hazard evaluation is in TB MED 524. Send requests for an
evaluation of an unlisted laser through command channels to Commander, U.S. Army Public Health Command,
MCHB–TS–OLO, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD 21010–5403, DSN 584–3932 or Commercial (410)–436–3932,
laser@amedd.army.mil. Army Commands that acquire lasers shall provide USAPHC with the manufacturer, model, and
serial number, if available, of production models of lasers to be fielded.

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(2) Use of an unlisted Class 3B and Class 4 laser on an Army range for research, development, testing, and
evaluation purposes only when authorized by the LSO and USAPHC. Users of such lasers comply with paragraph
3–1a.
(3) Lasers used for research and development purposes are exempt from the provisions of this paragraph provided
the LSO reviews and provides approval.
g. Only a qualified expert (see glossary) is to design, review, and test controls for access to a Class 3B or Class 4
laser facility. Users follow these requirements in accordance with applicable directives before routinely using Class 3B
or Class 4 lasers within such a facility. A qualified expert is to write or review for adequacy all laser safety SOPs for
each such facility (see para 3–3).
h. Only Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3R lasers may be used indoors on Army installations as hand-held laser pointing
devices. Class 3B or Class 4 lasers are prohibited for such purposes.
i. Users are not to conduct an operation involving planned exposure of personnel to laser radiation in excess of the
applicable exposure guides (see table 5–2).
j. The LSO maintains an inventory of all Class 3B and 4 and all military exempt laser devices within the
organization and update it annually and more frequently if required by local procedure. Laser users should report
inventory changes to the LSO as they occur, and reports changes annually (or more frequently if required by local
procedure). The LSO forwards the laser inventory to Garrison RSO at least annually.
k. See chapter 6 for accident and incident reporting requirements.
l. See chapter 7 for laser safety training requirements.
3–2. Military-exempt lasers
a. Military specific lasers will meet as many of the laser performance requirements in 21 CFR 1040 as practical. If a
military specific laser is unable to comply with all of the provisions of 21 CFR 1040.10, then the manufacturer is
responsible for requesting, from the DOD procuring agency, the use of the military exemption. If the DOD procuring
agency grants the use of the military exemption, the laser product will be classified in accordance with ANSI Z136.1
and will comply with alternative controls in MIL–STD 1425A. When the exemption is used the contracting officer
provides the manufacturer and USAPHC the written military exemption for the specific laser system covered by the
exemption. The Program Manager (PM) is the signatory for the military exemption notification. The PM and safety
engineers implement the guidance from USAPHC non-ionizing hazard evaluation or provide in writing the rationale
why the guidance is not to be implemented. The PM and engineers coordinate with contracting officer, the manufacturer, and the USAPHC on the process to ensure the safety guidance is implemented.
b. Proponents of military-exempt lasers include laser safety requirements in technical publications for siting,
operation, and maintenance of these lasers and laser systems. Provided is a list of recommended requirements.
(1) Nominal ocular hazard distances.
(2) Nominal ocular hazard distances for 7 X 50 binocular viewing.
(3) Nominal skin hazard distances.
(4) Optical density requirements for laser eye protection.
(5) Reproductions of all required labels and hazard warnings.
(6) Any appropriate safety instruction to avoid the hazard.
c. Lasers intended primarily for indoor classroom training and demonstration, industrial operations, scientific investigations, or medical applications are not designated military-exempt. CG, USAPHC maintain records indicating the type
of product and manufacturer for all Class 3B and Class 4 military-exempt lasers.
d. Army programs granting use of the military exemption to a manufacturer shall provide USAPHC Non-ionizing
Radiation Program with a copy of the exemption notification.
e. Once the DOD exemption is applied to a laser system, the working laser system shall not be sold, loaned, or
donated outside of the DOD unless the system is brought into full compliance with part 21 CFR 1040. Disposal of
exempted lasers will be in accordance with DOD 4160.21–M.
3–3. Laser Safety Program
a. Management at all levels of the Army who employ personnel that operate Class 3B and Class 4 lasers (military
specific and nonmilitary) are required to establish and maintain a safety program for the control of laser hazards. Under
some circumstances it may be desirable to include Class 1, Class 1M, Class 2, Class 2M, and Class 3R lasers in the
safety program if such lasers contain embedded Class 3B or Class 4 lasers that may be accessed during a maintenance
procedure.
b. Organizational safety programs and employee training programs, including refresher programs, are required for
Class 3B and Class 4 lasers and laser systems.
c. The laser safety program includes the following requirements:
(1) Designation in writing of an individual as the LSO responsible for laser safety to include:

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DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

(a) Maintain adequate policies and procedures that comply with Federal and local regulations for the control of laser
hazards.
(b) Responsible for assuring that recommended control measures are implemented and maintained. LSO can also
approve alternate control measures when the primary controls are not practical. The LSO has the authority to suspend,
limit, or terminate the operation of a laser system that is lacking adequate laser hazard controls.
(c) A current inventory of all Class 3B and Class 4 lasers (military and non-military), and all military exempt lasers.
(d) Initiate the appropriate training and refresher training of authorized laser personnel (for example, LSOs, laser
operators, service personnel, and range personnel) in the safe use of lasers and laser systems and control of their
hazards.
(e) Recommendation or approval of adequate protective measures (personal protective equipment (PPE), barriers,
screens) for the control of laser hazards. LSO periodically audits PPE to ensure that it is in proper working order.
(f) Documentation of program perspective and procedures including procedures, SOPs, regulations, and points of
contact. The LSO approves SOPs and other procedures for Class 3B and Class 4 laser systems that may be part of the
requirements for administrative or procedural controls.
(g) Review the wording on area warning signs and equipment warning labels.
(h) Review Class 3B and Class 4 laser installations, facilities, ranges, and laser equipment prior to use. This includes
modifications to existing facilities.
(i) Report known or suspected overexposures to laser radiation (see para 6–1a).
(j) Implementation of medical surveillance for all required personnel within their program according to current U.S.
Army policy.
(2) Perform periodic update and review of the overall laser safety program including a survey of all areas where
lasers are operated and used.

Chapter 4
Electromagnetic Radiation Safety
4–1. General
a. As directed in AR 385–10, the Army will comply with the EMF safety program elements in DODI 6055.11.
Users of controlled EMF emitting sources, system, devices will comply with radiation safety requirements in applicable
technical publications, TB Med 523, and TB 43–0133.
b. Users will adopt no practice and conduct no operation involving planned exposure of personnel to EMF in excess
of the applicable ERL provided below. Based upon IEEE C95.1 and DODI 6055.11 there are two tiers to RF safety
exposure limits, controlled environments and action levels for the general public.
c. The ERLs are a function of frequency and time for electromagnetic fields and radio frequency radiation in the 3
kilohertz (kHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz) frequency spectrum. These standards are established to protect persons against
any adverse health effects and specify exposure levels for personnel protection.
d. Current scientific evidence indicates that no adverse health effects will occur with exposures that are within the
ERLs, even under repeated or long-term exposure conditions:
(1) A minimum safety factor of 10 is incorporated into these standards for controlled environments and a minimum
safety factor of 50 for the general public.
(2) Exposure standards are also assessed with reference to an averaging time that varies with frequency.
e. The ERLs for the following frequency ranges protect against adverse health effects follows:
(1) Between 3 kHz and 5 megahertz (MHz), protects against adverse health effects due to electro stimulation.
(2) Between 100 kHz and 3 GHz, limits the specific absorption rate, these basic restrictions are provided in table
4–1.
(3) In the transition region between 100 kHz and 5 MHz, EMF safety must protect against both heating effects and
electro stimulation.
(4) Between 3 GHz and 300 GHz, the ERLs are established to limit adverse health effects due to incident power
density.
(5) Between 3 GHz and 6 GHz ERLs demonstrate compliance to the standards by incident power density or local
Specific Absorption Rate.
f. In some RF environments, contact with excessively high RF voltages may result in an RF shock or burn. An open
voltage of 140 volts root mean squared in the RF field is a conservative criterion used to define the potential RF shock
and burn hazard situation.
g. For high-peak power-pulsed fields, the ERL is 200 kV/m. Additionally, high-peak and electromagnetic pulse are
not distinguished.
h. ERLs for action levels (general public) and the controlled environments are provided in IEEE C95.1–2345. When

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developing EMF safety programs, do not apply additional safety margins. The ERL limits incorporate adequate safety
margins. An RSP is needed only when EMF levels can exceed the action level. Hence the term action level, only then
does there need to be action in place to ensure RF safety. n controlled environments, which translate to awareness, the
workers are familiar with electromagnetic energy and have control over their RF environment. In general public
environments, people are not familiar with electromagnetic energy and do not have control over the environment.
i. Users identify, attenuate, or control potentially hazardous EMF and other radiation hazards associated with Army
electronic equipment by engineering design, administrative actions, or protective equipment, (in that order), or a
combination thereof. Use process and engineering controls before PPE to protect workers.
(1) Protective clothing is not authorized for protection against EMF-induced shocks and contact burns, or for routine
use as a means of protecting personnel from EMF overexposure. PPE, such as electrically insulated gloves and shoes
for protection against EMF contact-induced shock or for insulation from the ground plane, is authorized for frequencies
less than 100 kHz where necessary for compliance with induced contact current limits (see IEEE C95.1, C95.1–2345,
and C95.6).
(2) Protective equipment, such as electrically insulated gloves and shoes for protection against EMF shock and burn,
or for insulation from the ground plane, is permissible when engineering controls or procedures cannot eliminate
exposure hazards and ensure compliance with induced current limits in DODI 6055.11.
(3) Personal EMF monitors are not approved for routine use as a means of personal protection from EMF exposure.
(4) All PPE is inspected before each use and routinely tested to ensure protective efficacy.
j. Proponents of EMF radiation-emitting systems include radiation safety requirements in technical publications
about siting, operation, and maintenance of these systems.
k. Multiple emitters in fixed arrangements. Where multiple EMF emitters may be collocated in fixed arrangements
(such as aboard ships or at communication sites), determine the weighted contribution that should be made to ensure
personnel are not exposed to effective EMF levels above the ERLs.
l. Multiple emitters in dynamic arrangements. Where multiple EMF emitters may be collocated in dynamic arrangements, computer-aided modeling is needed to determine the weighted contribution that should be made to ensure
personnel are not exposed to effective EMF levels above the ERLs. Contact USAPHC on modeling expertise to ensure
levels are below ERLs.
m. Shielded enclosures and EMF. EMF emitters are used in laboratory settings throughout the DOD to perform
verification and validation tests. The shielding effectiveness of the shielded enclosures used to control EMF need to be
periodically verified. Engineering controls such as interlocks are necessary to protect personnel from exposure to EMF
(see IEEE 299).
n. See chapter 6 for EMF accident and incident reporting requirements.
o. See chapter 7 for EMF training requirements.
4–2. Measurement and evaluation of electromagnetic field from 0 Hz to 300 GHz
Use measurement procedures and techniques recommended in IEEE C95.3 as basic guidance for evaluating RF
hazards. This requirement does not preclude the use of other EMF measuring and evaluation methodologies.
a. Commanding General, USAPHC, maintains records of surveys, reports, calculations, and control measures for
each type-classified EMF emitter.
b. Commands and installations maintain records of surveys, reports, calculations, and control measures for on all
EMF emitters that could exceed the ERL on their inventory. The inventory should include documentation defining
locations categorized as “EMF-controlled” and “EMF-action levels” (public and uncontrolled).
c. Where multiple RF EMR emitters are located, RF evaluation data will include a determination of weighted
contributions from expected simultaneously operated emitters.
d. Ensure that EMF emitter evaluation data is provided to the Army Spectrum Management Office to confirm the
data collected is in accordance with the data provided in the Spectrum Supportability Risk Assessment and DD Form
1494 (Application for Equipment Frequency Allocation). Ensure data is included in the Army Spectrum Management
Program.
4–3. Electromagnetic field controls
a. Action level. Establish and maintain control over areas where potential EMF exposures to personnel above the
action level could occur. The lower-tier exposure limit, below the action level, is when exposures are controlled
through the implementation of an EMF safety program. To prevent exposures to personnel above the ERL and action
level, use the ERLs specified in IEEE C95.1–2345.
b. Electromagnetic field warning signs. The EMF warning sign formats specified in the IEEE C95.2 or adequate
variation are permitted to identify EMF hazards and properly instruct individuals of the dangers.
(1) Variations to include subdued signs for camouflage or tactical reasons, or to provide improved visibility under
certain lighting conditions, are authorized provided the general layout of the signs remains the same. EMF warning
signs are required at all access points where levels exceed the controlled environment ERLs listed in IEEE C95.
1–2345.

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(2) Where the EMF levels exceed the uncontrolled environment ERLs or actions levels, post warning signs
according to IEEE C95.7 figure 1 and as per radiation safety, safety engineers, or occupational health professionals.
Insert instructional or warning statements on the signs, as appropriate. Where EMF warning signs create unacceptable
operational risks, institute documented alternate procedures for informing personnel of EMF hazards.
(3) EMF caution, warning, or danger signs are required at all access points where EMF levels exceed the controlled
environment ERLs.
(4) “CAUTION” signs are more commonly applied to alert personnel to the possibility of exposures exceeding the
ERL level.
(5) “WARNING” signs are normally used to advise of potential EMF exposures that may exceed ERL level by a
factor of 10.
(6) “DANGER” signs are normally only used for situations in which immediate and serious injury will occur such
as in the case of RF burns and RF electrical shocks.
c. Post warning signs. Post notification signs where the general public may be exposed to EMF levels exceeding the
uncontrolled environment ERLs or action levels.
d. Instructions. Insert instructions or statements on the signs, as appropriate. Where EMF warning signs create
unacceptable operational risks, institute documented alternate procedures for informing personnel of EMF hazards.
e. Additional warning devices. In areas where access to EMF levels greater than 10 times the controlled environment
ERLs may exist, warning signs alone may not provide adequate protection. Other warning devices, such as flashing
lights, audible signals, barriers, or interlocks, are required depending on the potential risk of exposure. Radiation safety
professionals should determine the specific warning devices used.
4–4. Duties of the Radio Frequency Safety Officer
The RFSO identifies, evaluates, and specifies control measures for EMF sources that may produce fields exceeding the
ERL limits. Regions that are normally accessible and exhibit intense EMFs will demand a higher priority when
allocating resources for implementing the EMF RSP. The RFSO is responsible for safety analyzes, which may address
potential exposure to personnel and potential interference with medical devices. Specific duties of the RFSO include,
but are not limited to, the following:
a. Provide an initial evaluation of the potential for exposure, and monitoring changes (that is, radiation characteristics of the EMF sources or access to controlled areas).
b. Maintain an inventory of controlled EMF sources; check TB 43–0133 for guidance if a source needs an EMF
safety program.
c. Evaluate and implement recommended safety procedures (for example, use of signs, barricades, published safety
procedures for identified user activities).
d. Document the EMF safety program.
e. Monitor relevant regulations relating to EMF safety.
f. Disseminate information on EMF safety policy within the organization.
g. Provide advice on the interpretation of policies and procedures related to EMF safety.
h. Review and authorize EMF surveys and hazard control measures.
i. Designate qualified EMF safety personnel.
j. Provide EMF safety awareness training and maintaining training records.
k. Conduct or arrange regular site audits (at least once every three years) for compliance with EMF safety policies.
l. Conduct an annual review of EMF hazard survey policies and procedures to ensure that they adequately reflect
best practices and regulatory requirements.
m. Investigate breaches of EMF safety policies and procedures or accidental EMF over-exposure incidents.
n. Archive all documentation associated with EMF safety in the organization in accordance with DODI 6055.11 and
ARIMS.
4–5. Siting of commercial telecommunications equipment on Army installations
Guidance for siting of commercial telecommunications equipment on Army installations is obtained from the Defense
Information Systems Agency Joint Spectrum Center DSN 281–2555 or commercial (410) 293–2555.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

21

Chapter 5
Radiation Safety Standards, Area Designations, and Contamination Limits
5–1. General
a. Ionizing radiation. Personnel exposure limits in this chapter do not apply to doses or exposures due to background radiation, medical administration the individual has received, or voluntary participation in medical research
programs.
b. Personnel exposure standards. Table 5–1 summarizes Army occupational ionizing radiation exposure standards.
For ARPs OCONUS, table 5–1 standards apply unless more restrictive standards are required by SOFAs.
c. Dosimetry. Army requirements for wearing and recording exposures to ionizing radiation are found in DA Pam
385–25.
d. Additional requirements.
(1) Nuclear Regulatory Commission jurisdiction. Standards for exposure to ionizing radiation emitted from NRClicensed RAMs are in 10 CFR 20. The Army also applies these standards to Army reactors and a combination of
exposures to NRC-licensed RAM and other ionizing radiation sources through the requirements of this pamphlet.
(2) Occupational Safety and Health Administration jurisdiction. Federal standards for occupational exposure to all
other ionizing radiation sources are in OSHA regulations (see 29 CFR 1910.1096 and 1926.53). See OSHA Directive,
CPL 02–00–086 - CPL 2.86 - memorandum of understanding between the OSHA and the NRC, 22 December 1989,
for a delineation of radiation sources regulated by each agency. However, adhere to the standards of this pamphlet for
all ionizing radiation sources when these standards are more protective than OSHA standards.
(3) Federal requirements for security of radioactive material. Federal requirements for security of RAM; control of
access to radiation areas, high radiation areas, and very high radiation areas; caution signs; posting and labeling
requirements; RAM shipping and receiving; are cited in 10 CFR, 29 CFR 1910.1096 and 1926.53, 49 CFR, and other
applicable documents (see Appendix A). Commanders may waive posting and labeling requirements during deployments and contingency operations on the basis of a risk assessment. Host nation regulations and SOFA requirements
must be considered in the waiver analysis.
e. Non-ionizing radiation. Table 5–2 provides a description of the EMR spectrum. Refer to the following indicated
references for personnel radiation exposure standards for the following types of non-ionizing radiation.
(1) Lasers-ANSI Z136.1 ANSI Z136.3, and ANSI Z136.6, 21 CFR 1040, DODI 6055.15, and TB Med 524.
(2) Ultraviolet, visible, and infrared (IR)-American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists Threshold
Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents and Biological Exposure Indices.
(3) Radio frequency electromagnetic fields-IEEE C95.1, 3 kHz to 300 GHz; IEEE C95.6, 0 to 3 kHz, IEEE C95.
1–2345 0 to 300 GHz; and DODI 6055.11.
(4) Contact and induced currents-IEEE C95.6, 0–3 kHz.
5–2. Area designations
a. Areas may be restricted for the purposes of control of access to radioactive materials or to reduce the potential for
unnecessary exposure to radiation. Areas with radioactive materials or the potential for radiation exposure are classified
as unrestricted, a restricted area, a radiation area, a high radiation area, a very high radiation area, a contamination
controlled area, or a radioactive materials area. Definitions for these areas are found in the glossary.
b. It is important to use the proper area classification and not over classify an area.
c. It may be appropriate to use more than one type of sign, such as a radioactive materials area and a radiation area
if both conditions exist.
d. Areas with radiation generating devices should be marked for the highest potential exposure and may have a sign
that is lighted only when radiation is produced.
5–3. Radioactive contamination
ANSI N13.12 is to be used except for compliance with NRC contamination limits. In the absence of other regulatory or
advisory guidance, a surface is contaminated if either the removable or total radioactivity is above the levels in table
5–3.
a. If a surface cannot be decontaminated promptly to levels below those in table 5–3, control, mark, designate, or
post it per applicable regulations. Report the contaminated surface to the appropriate RSO.
b. Always reduce radioactive contamination to levels ALARA (see glossary).
c. Local commanders and directors may use contamination standards more restrictive than those in table 5–2 but
will not use standards less restrictive without applying RM principles (see para 1–10).
d. Guidance on radioactive contamination release criteria for decommissioned facilities is available in NUREG
1757.
e. As a general practice, Army organizations will not release volumetric-radioactively contaminated materials or
items for unrestricted use. Screening levels for volumetric-radioactively contaminated materials are specified by, or

22

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

negotiated with, the regulator. For volumetric-radioactively contaminated materials not otherwise subject to regulatory
control, screening levels for unrestricted release of items or materials potentially radioactively in volume require
approval of the Army RSO.

Table 5–1
Army personnel ionizing radiation exposure standards1,2
Category

Maximum 2,3

Member of the general public

100 mrem (1 mSv) (TEDE) in calendar year3

Fetus/embryo of occupationally exposed declared pregnant
woman

500 mrem (5 mSv) (DDE of mother + DE due to radionuclides in the
embryo/fetus and radionuclides in the declared pregnant woman), not
to exceed 50 mrem/month (0.5 mSv/month)., not to exceed 50 mrem/
month.

Occupational exposure of adults

5 rem (0.05 Sv) (TEDE) in calendar year

Lens of the eye

15 rem (0.15 Sv) (EDE) in calendar year4

Individual organ

50 rem (0.5 Sv) (DDE + CDE) in calendar year

Skin or extremity

50 rem (0.5 Sv) (SDE) in calendar year

Occupational exposure of minors under age 18

0.5 rem (0.005 Sv) TEDE in a calendar year

Emergency worker-nonlifesaving

5 rem5

Emergency worker-lifesaving

25 rem6

Emergency worker-lifesaving

50 rem7

Notes:
1 From 10 CFR 20. Refer to 10 CFR 20 for detailed standards. For deployment and combat actions, see also JP 3–11.
2 Abbreviations: TEDE=total effective dose equivalent; DDE=deep dose equivalent; ED=effective dose; EDE=effective dose equivalent; CDE=committed
dose equivalent; SDE=shallow dose equivalent.
3 The dose in any unrestricted area from external sources, exclusive of the dose contributions from patients administered RAM and released in accordance
with applicable regulations, will not exceed 2 mrem (0.02 mSv) in any one hour.
4 OSHA standard for occupational exposure of adults and the lens of the eye is 1 1/2 rem in a calendar quarter. OSHA standard for skin of the whole body is
7 1/2 rem in a calendar quarter. OSHA standard for hands and forearms; feet and ankles is 18 3/4 rem in a calendar quarter.
5 Emergency radiation exposure to incident responders should be controllable to this limit in almost all situations. The on-scene commander may increase
the limit when all reasonable dose-limiting actions have been employed, and increased dose is unavoidable.
6 Only on a voluntary basis where a lower dose limit is not practicable.
7 Only on a voluntary basis where a lower dose limit is not practicable, and only to personnel fully aware of the risks involved, including a substantial increase in their lifetime cancer risk.

Table 5–2
Electromagnetic radiation
Region

Wavelength1,2

Frequency1,2

Authority3

Ionizing
(gamma and x-rays)

less than 100 nm

more than 3 PHz
(Energy greater than 12.4 eV)

NRC, OSHA Army

Ultraviolet (UV)

100 to 400 nm

0.75–0.79 to 3 PHz

ACGIH/FDA

Visible (light)

400 to 780 nm

390 to 790 THz

ACGIH/FDA

Infrared

780 nm to 1 mm

300 GHz to 390 THz

ACGIH/FDA

Radio frequency

1 mm to 100 km

3 kHz to 300 GHz

IEEE/DOD

Extremely low frequency

more than 100 km

less than 3 kHz

IEEE/DOD

NA

IEEE/DOD

Contact and induced cur- N/A
rent

Notes:
1 Wavelength x frequency=speed of light=3 x 108 m s-1
2 Unit abbreviations: nm=nanometer (10–9 m); m=micrometer (10–6 m); mm=millimeter (10–3 m); km=kilometer (103 m); PHz=petahertz (1015 Hz);
THz=terahertz (1012 Hz); GHz=gigahertz (109 Hz); kHz=kilohertz (103 Hz); and eV=electron volt (1 eV=1.6 x 10–19 Joule (J)).
3 The regulating authority for personnel exposure for the purposes of this pamphlet (see para 5–3).

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

23

Table 5–3
Screening levels for clearance
Radionuclide Groups1

Screening levels
(S.I. Units)2

Surface Screening (Con- Volume Screening
ventional Units)2
(Conventional Units)2

(Bq/cm2 or Bq/g)3

(dpm/100 cm2)

(pCi/g)

600

3

Group 1
Radium, Thorium, and Transuranics:
0.1
210Po, 210Pb, 226Ra, 228Ra, 228Th, 230Th,
232Th, 237Np, 239Pu, 240Pu, 241Am, 244Cm,
and associated decay chains4, and others1
Group 2
Uranium and Selected High Dose Beta1
Gamma Emitters:
22Na, 54Mn, 58Co, 60Co, 65Zn, 90Sr, 94Nb,
106Ru, 110mAg, 124Sb, 134Cs, 137Cs, 152Eu,
154Eu, 192Ir, 234U, 235U, 238U, Natural
Uranium5, and others1
Group 3
General Beta-Gamma Emitters: 24Na,
59Fe,109Cd, 131I, 129I, 144Ce, 198Au,
241Pu, and others1

36Cl,

Group 46
Other Beta-Gamma Emitters:
3H, 14C, 32P, 35S, 45Ca, 51Cr, 55Fe, 63Ni,
89Sr, 99Tc, 111In, 125I, 147Pm, and others1

6,000
30

10

60,000
300

100

600,000
3,000

Legend for Table 5-3:
(1). To determine the specific group for radionuclides not shown, a comparison of the effective dose factors, by exposure pathway, listed in Table A.1 of
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) Report No. 123 (NCRP 1996) for the radionuclides in question and the radionuclides in
the general groups above shall be performed and a determination of the proper group made, based on similarity of the factors.
(2). Rounded to one significant figure.
(3). The screening levels shown are used for either surface activity concentration (in units of Bq/cm2), or volume activity concentration (in units of Bq/g).
These groupings were determined based on similarity of the scenario modeling results, as described in Annex B of ANSI N13.12.
(4). For decay chains, the screening levels represent the total activity (that is, the activity of the parent plus the activity of all progeny) present.
(5). Where the Natural Uranium activity equals 48.9% from 238U, plus 48.9% from 234U, plus 2.25% from 235U.
(6). Radionuclides were assigned to groups that were protective of 10 μSv/y (1.0 mrem/y) and were limited to four groups for ease of application, as discussed in Annex B of ANSI N13.12.

Chapter 6
Special Reporting Requirements
6–1. General
a. Reporting requirements of NRC licenses, 10 CFR, AR 385–10, DA Pam 385–40, and DA Pam 385–25 apply to
radiation accidents, incidents, and overexposures. Incidents or accidents involving—
(1) Radioactive material. Reported immediately to the NRC license holder (see table 6–1), ARA holder or ARP
issuer and the ACOM.
(2) Manufacturers electronics products. Examples include x-ray machines for industrial, medical, and research,
accelerators, electron microscopes, and neutron generators. Where reasonable grounds exist that an incident has
occurred, personnel are encouraged to remain calm, shut off the device, and call the following numbers at USAPHC to
report all medical and industrial incidents involving electronic products:
(a) DSN 584–8396 or commercial (410) 436–8396 or after duty hours at (410) 436–4375, DSN 584–4375, DSN
Dialing from OCONUS (312) 584–4375, or (800) 222–9698 (24 hour phone lines).
(b) Refer to the USAPHC Web site http://USAPHC.amedd.army.mil/organization/institute/dohs/Pages/hp.aspx under
Occupational Health Services, Health Physics Program, Resources, for additional information.
(3) Non-ionizing radiation.
(a) Suspected laser eye injuries—Immediately evacuate personnel suspected of experiencing potentially damaging
eye exposure from laser radiation to the nearest medical facility for an eye examination (OTSG Policy, 11 April 1994).
Laser eye injuries require immediate specialized ophthalmologic care to minimize long-term visual acuity loss. Medical
personnel should obtain medical guidance for laser injuries from the DOD Laser Injury Hotline, (800) 473–3549, DSN
798–3764, commercial (937) 938–3764, or email esoh.service.center@wpafb.af.mil, complete the Laser Injury Electronic Reporting Form at https://hpws.afrl.af.mil/dhp/OE/ESOHSC/laserinjury/, and submit the completed report on the
incident to the Laser Injury Database https://hpws.afrl.af.mil/dhp/OE/laserinjury/.

24

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

(b) Suspected overexposure to EMF source—Immediately remove personnel suspected of experiencing the overexposure to the nearest medical facility for care. The medical personnel should obtain medical guidance for the injury
from the DOD EMF Injury Hotline, (800) 473–3549, DSN 798–3764, commercial (937) 938–3764, or e-mail esoh.
service.center@wpafb.af.mil, complete the EMF Injury Reporting Form at https://hpws.afrl.af.mil/dhp/OE/ESOHSC/
emfinjury/, and submit the completed report to the EMF Injury Database https://hpws.afrl.af.mil/dhp/OE/emfInjury/.
(c) Report all non-ionizing incidents or accidents to—
1. Commander, U.S. Army Public Health Command, 5158 Blackhawk Road, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
21010–5403, (800) 222–9698 (24-hour phone line).
2. USAPHC Non-ionizing Radiation Program (DSN 584–3353/3932 or commercial (410) 436–3932/2331 or (800)
222–9698 after duty hours) (e-mail to: usarmy.apg.medcom-phc.mbx.nonionizing@mail.mil).
3. The Tri-Service Vision Conservation and Readiness Program (TVCRP) should be notified in the event of a laser
eye injury. USAPHC TVCRP, (DSN 584–2714 or commercial (410) 436–2714) (email laserincident@amedd.army.
mil).
b. The NRC license holder reports applicable accidents/incidents to the NRC’s 24-hour Headquarters Operations
Center (301) 816–5100. The ARA holders and ARP issuers report to higher commands accidents and incidents as
required.
c. Notify the garrison or activity public affairs officer at the onset of the accident or incident to activate public
affairs contingency measures (see AR 360–1). Radiation accidents or incidents attract the attention of local and national
media quickly. Early disclosure of accurate information is vital to maintaining the confidence of both the internal and
external public.
d. Accident notification will be completed as per AR 385–10. In addition, the commander experiencing a radiation
accident will send an electronically transmitted message to the following addressees, and provideas many details of the
accident as possible, in accordance with the Radiological Accident Report format within 24 hours of occurrence to the
following addresses:
(1) Commander, U.S. Combat Readiness Center (CSSC–Z), Fort Rucker, AL, at DSN 558–2660/3410, commercial
(334) 255–2660/3410 (24-hour phone line), FAX DSN 558–3749, commercial (334) 255–3749 or email helpdesk@crc.
army.mil.
(2) Also notify The Army Safety Office (DACS–SF) at DSN 227–1194/1128, commercial (703) 697–1194/1128 and
(SGPS–PSP) at DSN 289–0132/commercial (703) 756–0132 or e-mail ASO@hqda.army.mil (during non-duty hours,
contact the Army Operations Center, DSN 227–0218, commercial (703) 697–0218, and indicate the offices to be
notified).

Table 6–1
Army Materiel Command Nuclear Regulatory Commission commodity license radiation safety officers
Major Subordinate Command

Phone number

Commodity type

U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Life Cycle Man- 256–842–3250
agement Command (AMCOM LCMC)
DSN 687–3250

Am-241 Range Finders and Magnesium Thorium Alloy

Communications-Electronics Life Cycle Management Command (CECOM LCMC)

443–395–3790
DSN 648–3790

Gauges, Optical Coatings, Military Vehicle and Cargo Inspection Systems (MVACIS)

Joint Munitions Command (JMC)

309–782–0338
DSN 793–0338

DU Munitions and Light Anti-tank Weapon Rocket Sights

U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments
Command Life Cycle Management Command
(TACOM LCMC)

586–282–0891/7635
DSN 786–0891/7635

Tritium/Chemical Agent Detector/Chemical Agent Monitor
(H3/CAD/CAM), DU in Tank Armor, Radium Gauges for
Vehicles, Vehicle Igniters, Tank Thorium Combustor Liner
and Density Moisture Testers

U.S. Army Installation Command (IMCOM)

210–466–0368
DSN 450–0368

M101 DU residue

6–2. Other required reporting agencies and time requirements
a. Send information copies of all reports required by 10 CFR 20.2201 through 20.2205, 29 CFR 1910.1096(m), or
29 CFR 1926.53(o) and of any other accident or incident report to the NRC or OSHA through command channels to
the Director of Army Safety (DACS–SF), Building 1456, 9351 Hall Road, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060–5527 (DSN
227–1194/1128 or commercial (703) 697–1194/1128) or electronically.
b. Reports through command channels will meet the same time requirements, as do required reports to the NRC and
OSHA. For example, if the NRC requires immediate telephonic notification, follow it with immediate telephonic

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

25

notification through the chain of command to Director of Army Safety (DACS–SF), Building 1456, 9351 Hall Road,
Fort Belvoir, VA 22060–5527 (DSN 227–1194/1128 or commercial (703) 697–1194/1128) or electronically.
6–3. Radiological Accident/incident Report
a. The Radiological Accident Report includes the following:
(1) Date and time of the event.
(2) Radiation-producing device or source involved, including national stock number, serial number, part number,
radiation characteristics, and parameters of the event.
(3) Description of the event, including cause; names and social security numbers of the people exposed, injured, or
contaminated; estimated exposure; contamination levels; facilities effected; potential damages; impact on operations;
and immediate-response actions taken.
(4) Actions taken to prevent recurrence.
(5) Recommendations to avoid similar instances at other installations possessing similar material or devices.
(6) Name and telephone number of HP or RSO, field unit identification, and the appropriate ACOM, ASCC, or
DRU involved.
(7) Point of contact (name, address, and telephone number).
(8) A statement of when the appropriate offices in Department of Labor, NRC, and DOT were notified (if
applicable) and by whom notification was made.
(9) NRC License, Army authorization number, or Army permit number.
b. Commanders send an electronically transmitted message within 24 hours of the occurrence to higher headquarters
and Radiological Consultant to the Surgeon General, and the ARSO.

Chapter 7
Training Requirements for Radiation Safety Officers, Laser Safety Officers, and
Radiofrequency Safety Officers
7–1. General
a. The RSOs, LSOs, and RFSOs shall be trained to a level commensurate with the duties and responsibilities of the
radiation program for which they are responsible, and in accordance with applicable NRC regulations and license
conditions, ANSI standards, IEEE standards, DODIs, ARAs, and other program documents (including state regulations
as they may apply to National Guard RSOs).
b. This training is to be completed before the RSO, LSO, and RFSO assumes the RSP responsibility.
c. Refresher training should occur annually and retraining should occur after a significant regulatory change or every
5 years.
(1) Annual refresher training can be accomplished through local training, a distance learning course, or a formal
course of instruction.
(2) Annual refresher should cover one to the topics described in paragraph 7–2 or a topic specifically designed for
the facility, radioactive material, or RGD in use.
d. Completion of training records guidance is provided in AR 25–400–2.
7–2. Radiation safety officer training requirements
a. Radiation safety officer designation. An RSO designated in accordance with this pamphlet will have completed a
formal course of instruction addressing the following topics:
(1) Basic radiation interactions.
(2) Radioactivity.
(3) Terms and units.
(4) Biological effects.
(5) Radiation detection and measurement.
(6) Radiation and contamination control.
(7) Radiation dosimetry.
(8) Additionally, the RSO shall receive specific training for Army radioactive commodities or RGD for which he/
she is responsible.
(9) If NRC license material is involved, ensure item 8 of the applicable NRC Form 313 requirements are met and
item 10, of the RSP.
b. Acceptable courses for unit and garrison radiation safety officers. Acceptable courses for unit and garrison RSOs
are offered by the U.S. Army Chemical School, MEDCOM, NGB, and AMC licensees. Paragraph 7–2e provides

26

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

additional information on courses to satisfy requirements for each level. Commercial courses with similar course
material may be acceptable if they meet the NRC license requirements and are approved by the Army RSO.
c. Certifying radioactive shipments. Any individual who certifies radioactive shipments must complete training
required by 49 CFR 173.1(b) and Defense Transportation Regulation 4500.9–R–Part II.
d. Unit radiation safety officers. Unit RSOs for units that possess only chemical detection equipment, fire control
devices, DU armored tanks, DU ammunition, DU tank combustor liners or generally licensed equipment may be
trained though TRADOC, NGB, locally, AMC licensees, or through the use of computer based training modules. This
training must be documented and provide an understanding of the hazards of the material, appropriate control
measures, and necessary accident/incident response actions and notifications.
e. Training requirements. Training requirements for Army radiation safety professionals.
(1) Level 4: Health Physicist GS–1306 and MEDCOM Nuclear Medical Science Officers (AOC 72A). Level 4 Army
HPs manage NRC licenses and major Army RSPs involving radioactive sources, energized sources, to include lasers
and EMF sources.
Note. RSOs on medical licenses may require additional training to meet the 200-hour training requirement for NRC medical
licensees prior to assignment as the medical license RSO. Individual who meet the basic standard for a HP, but occupy a different
career field, may also meet level 4 qualifications if they have a minimum of 80 hours radiation safety training in the topics listed in
paragraph 7–2a.

(2) Level 3: Radiation safety officers, Garrison or equivalent level radiation safety officers. The Army Military and
Civilian HPs need developmental courses to maintain proficiency Level 3: RSO Garrison or equivalent level RSOs.
The garrison RSO needs to have completed the one-week basic RSO course (phase 1) with specific commodity
radiation safety training, or alternate AMC NRC licensee training authorized by an NRC license, and receive annual
refresher radiation safety training and a one-week advanced radiation safety course (phase 2).
(3) Level 2: Local radiation safety officers. RSOs at units or MEDCOM that have a need for a basic radiation safety
understanding and specialized radiation safety training to include medical radiation safety, Density Moisture Testers,
UDM–2 calibrators, or RGD that have specific radiation safety requirements. An example is the x-ray unit used for
nondestructive testing. The local RSO must complete the one-week basic RSO course (phase 1), receive source specific
training for items under their purview, and receive annual radiation safety training.
(4) Level 1: Unit radiation safety officers. RSOs at units that are responsible for AMC commodities or NRC
generally licensed items have to complete a distance learning or resident radiation safety course taught by an RSO level
2 or higher.
f. Radiation safety for safety professionals. The radiation safety for safety professionals is not designed to meet any
of the RSO requirements, but acts as a familiarization program to understand basic radiation safety and whom to
contact for additional expertise. The training is part of the safety professional certification process and is an accredited
course by the career program 12 safety certification process.
g. Army Command radiation safety staff officers. ACOM RSSOs have training equal to or greater than level 3 RSOs
and receive annual refresher training. ACOM RSSOs with multiple NRC licenses within their command should have
training equivalent to level 4 RSOs.
h. Radiation safety instructor qualifications. TRADOC instructors that have completed their instructor qualification
and applicable level of instruction in radiation safety are qualified to instruct those levels which they have completed
Non-TRADOC instructors (that are not GS–1306s or 72As) require completion of, as a minimum, RSO Level 2
training and must have completed an instructor qualification course.
7–3. Laser safety training requirements
a. An LSO with responsibility for a laser RSP:
(1) Complete a formal course with a minimum of 10 hours of laser instruction addressing such topics as laser
radiation, terminology, biological effects, and exposure control measures.
(2) Refresher training should occur annually and retraining should occur after a significant regulatory change or
every 5 years.
b. Laser safety training programs are conducted by individuals with knowledge of lasers (general and operational)
and laser safety concepts. Depending on the trainees and the level of training being taught, the trainer may also require
knowledge on the following topics:
(1) Laser classification.
(2) Laser bioeffects.
(3) Specular and diffuse reflections.
(4) Control measures.
(5) Nominal hazard zones.
(6) Laser eye protection and optical density.
(7) Non-beam hazards.
(8) Medical surveillance program requirements.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

27

(9) Accident and incident reporting procedures.
c. Training is provided to each LSO, manager of a laser system or laser operational area, and Soldiers and
employees working with, operating, or potentially exposed to Class 3B or Class 4 laser radiation and Military exempt
laser systems.
d. Training should be provided to Soldiers and employees working with, operating, or potentially exposed to Class
1M, Class 2, Class 2M or Class 3R laser radiation.
e. The level of training shall be commensurate to at least the highest class of laser within the scope of their job.
f. Refresher training shall be provided to each LSO, Soldier, and employees working with, operating, or potentially
exposed to Class 3B or Class 4 laser radiation and military exempt laser systems.
(1) Refresher training may be an abbreviated version of the original training, or it may be as simple as a review of
an SOP or operator’s manual. After this training, personnel should have the necessary laser safety knowledge to
continue to work safely with their laser(s).
(2) Personnel that occasionally work with lasers may require more frequent refresher training than persons that work
with lasers daily.
g. LSO training shall be more comprehensive than that of other personnel working with, operating, or potentially
exposed to laser radiation. The training shall be commensurate to at least the highest class of laser within their
program. In addition to the topics listed in paragraph 7–3a the LSO will receive additional training on the following:
(1) Basic radiometric terms and units.
(2) Types of lasers including laser output parameters.
(3) ERLs.
(4) General understanding of laser hazard evaluation process.
(5) Laser Hazard software.
(6) Laser Range Management Tool software.
h. Operators of Class 3B, Class 4 lasers and Military exempt lasers will receive specialized training for the system
that they operate to include:
(1) SOPs.
(2) Specific laser system control measures.
(3) Review of all hazard distances for the laser system.
(4) Environments, conditions, and situations where lasers may or may not be operated.
(5) Accident and incident reporting procedures.
(6) Training should include meeting National Environmental Policy Act environmental documentation requirements
for potential impact of laser systems on the surrounding environment through interaction with tissue, medical electronics, aircraft, explosives, and fueling operations.
i. Acceptable LSO courses are offered by the USAPHC and commercial vendors, such as the Laser Institute of
America.
j. Laser safety instructor qualifications.
(1) TRADOC instructors that have completed their instructor qualification and the applicable level of instruction in
laser safety are qualified to instruct those levels they have completed.
(2) Non-TRADOC instructors (that are not GS–1306s or GS–72As) require completion of, as a minimum, LSO
training, and an instructor qualification course.
7–4. Radiofrequency safety training requirements
a. An RFSO with responsibility for an EMF RSP (other than a laser program):
(1) Complete a formal course with a minimum of 10 hours of radiofrequency instruction addressing such topics as
EMF radiation, terminology, biological effects, and exposure control measures.
(2) Refresher training should occur annually and retraining should occur after a significant regulatory change or
every 5 years.
(3) RFSO training should include the potential impact of RF on tissue, medical electronics, aircraft avionics and
controls and communications, air traffic control, explosives, fueling operations, EMS communications, and RF shock
hazards.
b. MOS 72D (Environmental Science Officer), MOS 74D (Chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive
specialist), the 25 (Signal/Communications) series should be considered to be the unit RFSO and receive training on
RF radiation to support the EMF RSP.
c. DA personnel who routinely work directly with equipment, to include being responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the EMF radiation source, that results in electromagnetic environmental levels in excess of the ERLs
receive at a minimum 4 hours of general EMF safety awareness training and 5 hours of EMF safety training on the
specific RF system to be used.
d. General awareness EMF safety training.

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(1) Is conducted prior to assignment to EMF work areas.
(2) Personnel are to be aware of potential hazards of EMF, establish procedures, and restrictions to control EMF
exposures, and understand their responsibility to limit their exposures.
(3) Awareness should include the potential impact of RF on tissue, medical electronics, aircraft avionics and
controls and communications, air traffic control, explosives, fueling operations, EMS communications, and RF shock
hazards.
e. Topics of specific EMF training cover the following information.
(1) Exposure potential associated with specific equipment.
(2) Biological effects associated with overexposure to power density levels exceeding the ERL.
(3) Proper use of protective equipment and devices such as barriers, signs, and lights.
(4) Routine EMF safety surveys.
(5) Awareness should include the potential impact of RF on tissue, medical electronics, aircraft avionics and
controls and communications, air traffic control, explosives, fueling operations, EMS communications, and RF shock
hazards.
(6) Procedures for maintaining an operational log for recording EMF radiation safety related events (such as
radiation control area violations or overrides of warning signs or safety interlocks)
(7) Training should include meeting National Environmental Policy Act environmental documentation requirements
for potential impact of RF systems on the surrounding environment through interaction with tissue, medical electronics,
aircraft, explosives, and fueling operations.
(8) EMF overexposure reporting procedures.
f. Develop a risk communication plan for personnel who may be exposed to EMF from DA sources or known
sources in the vicinity of deployed forces.
(1) Apply current risk communication techniques for describing risk and the process of risk assessment and
characterization (see DA Pam 385–30). Potential EMF exposures in military deployments follow operational risk
communication requirements of DODI 6490.03 and DODI 6055.11.
(2) At a minimum, address opportunities to ensure potential occupationally exposed individuals, including those
with implanted medical devices, metal implants, stents, shunts, or wires, understand the known health implications of
system operation.
g. Acceptable RFSO training courses are offered by the USAPHC.
h. EMF safety instructor qualifications.
(1) TRADOC instructors who have completed their instructor qualification and the applicable level of instruction in
EMF safety are qualified to instruct those levels they have completed.
(2) Non-TRADOC instructors (that are not GS–1306s or GS–72As) require completion of, as a minimum, RFSO
training and have completed an instructor qualification course.

Chapter 8
Enhanced Security Requirements for Radionuclides of Concern
8–1. General
This chapter provides guidance for establishing policy, procedures, and minimum physical security standards for the
safeguarding, security, and storage of radionuclides of concern and applies to all NRC license holders and RSOs who
possess a quantity of radioactive material at or above the category 2 threshold limit per 10 CFR 37, additional guidance
is provided in NUREG 2155.
8–2. Radioactive Source Categories
a. This chapter provides guidance for establishing policy, procedures, and minimum physical security standards for
the safeguarding, security, and storage of radionuclides of concern and applies to all NRC license holders and RSOs
who possess a quantity of radioactive material at or above the Category 2 threshold limit per 10 CFR 37, additional
guidance is provided in NUREG 2155.
b. Activation products contained in the structure (such as, the stainless steel lining of a reactor vessel, stainless steel
bolts, or the reactor hull) would not be subject to 10 CFR Part 37 as long as these materials remain an integral
component of a reactor. However, upon decommissioning of the reactor, waste generated from decommissioning may
be subject to 10 CFR Part 37 if the waste meets or exceeds a Category 2 threshold. For example, shipments of
decommissioned reactor components would be subject to Subpart D if their total activity met or exceeded a Category 2
threshold and if they weighed less than 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) (see 10 CFR 37.11(c)).

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Table 8–1
Radionuclides of concern
Category 1

Category 2

Terabecquerels
(TBq)

Curies
(Ci)

Terabecquerels
(TBq)

Curies
(Ci)

Americium-241

60

1,600

0.6

16

Americium-241/Be

60

1,600

0.6

16

Californium-252

20

540

0.2

5.4

Curium-244

50

1,400

0.5

14

Cobalt-60

30

810

0.3

8.1

Cesuim-137

100

2,700

1.0

27

Gadolinium-153

1,000

27,000

10.0

270

Iridium-192

80

2,200

0.8

22

Plutonium-238

60

1,600

0.6

16

Plutonium-239/Be

60

1,600

0.6

16

Promethium-147

40,000

1,100,000

400

11,000

Radium-226

40

1,100

0.4

11

Selenium-75

200

5,400

2.0

54

Strontium-90/(Y–90)

1,000

27,000

10.0

270

Thulium-170

20,000

540,000

200

5,400

Ytterbium-169

300

8,100

3.0

81

c. The aggregate activity of multiple, collocated sources of the same radionuclide should be included to determine if
the total activity exceeds the Category 2 limit.
d. Radioactive materials are to be considered aggregated or collocated if breaching a common physical security
barrier (for example, a locked door at the entrance to a storage room) would allow access to the RAM or devices
containing the RAM.
e. If multiple sources of the same radionuclide and multiple radionuclides are aggregated at a location, the sum of
the ratios of the total activity of each of the radionuclides must be determined to verify whether the activity at the
location is less than the category 2 threshold of table 8–1, as appropriate. If the calculated sum of the ratios, using the
equation in figure 8–1, is greater than or equal to 1.0, then the applicable requirements of this part apply. First
determine the total activity for each radionuclide from table 8–1. This is done by adding the activity of each source,
material in any device, and any loose or bulk material that contains the radionuclide. Then use the equation below to
calculate the sum of the ratios by inserting the total activity of the applicable radionuclides from table 8–1 in the
numerator of the equation and the corresponding threshold activity from table 8–1 in the denominator of the equation.
Calculations must be performed in metric values (that is, TBq) and the numerator and denominator values must be in
the same units.

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DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

(1) Ri = total activity for radionuclide i
(2) R1 = total activity for radionuclide 1
(3) R2 = total activity for radionuclide 2
(4) Rn = total activity for radionuclide n
(5) ARi = activity threshold for radionuclide i
(6) AR1 = activity threshold for radionuclide 1
(7) AR2 = activity threshold for radionuclide 2
(8) ARn = activity threshold for radionuclide n
Figure 8–1. Unity rule for Category 2 sources

f. Radionuclides of concern require protective measures if—
(1) Any single source is larger than the Category 2 level listed in table 8–1.
(2) Multiple aggregated sources of the same radionuclide when the combined quantity exceeds the Category 2 level
listed in table 8–1.
(3) For combinations of radionuclides, including multiple aggregated sources of different radionuclides when the
aggregate quantities satisfy the unity rule of figure 8–1.
8–3. Unescorted access authorization
a. The Army NRC licensee will establish, implement, and maintain an unescorted access authorization program per
10 CFR 37 subpart B and this chapter for individuals who have unescorted access to radionuclides of concern.
b. The Army NRC licensee designates the Army NRC license RSO, Army NRC license alternate RSO, certifying
official for the Personal Reliability Program, or local chairman of the RSC as the reviewing official for the unescorted
access authorization program. The designation is by command appointment orders. The licensee confirms the reviewing
official’s trustworthiness and reliability based on a valid security investigation adjudicated to national security standards with eligibility for a security clearance. The reviewing official makes the determination on which individuals are
permitted unescorted access to radionuclides of concern.
c. The reviewing official—
(1) Ensures the subject individual has informed and provided a signed consent to the security review as per 10 CFR
37.23(c) before the reviewing official begins any background investigation. The denial or withdrawal of consent by an
individual is sufficient cause for the reviewing official to deny or terminate unescorted access authorization.
(2) Ensures the protection of personnel information per 10 CFR 37.31 and AR 340–21.
(3) Reviews the subject individual’s investigation file and dossier and the subject individual’s personnel file. If the
individual is in the Personal Reliability program the review can be coordinated with the certifying official. The review
addresses the individual’s:
(a) Criminal history records check.
(b) Employment history.
(c) Education.
(d) Personnel references.
(4) Evaluates the information and make a determination on the trustworthiness and reliability of the individual to be
allowed or denied unescorted access to radionuclides of concern. Use NRC guidance such as the relevance factors in
Appendix A, NUREG 2155 in evaluating the information.
(5) Notifies the individual in writing of the individual’s right to complete, correct or explain any adverse information. The licensee must maintain the confirmation of receipt by the individual of this notification for one year from the
date of the notification (see 10 CFR 37.23g for the procedures if the individual believes the criminal history record is
inaccurate or incomplete).

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

31

(6) Documents all significant actions when allowing or denying unescorted access. If the individual is denied
unescorted access, inform the individual of the grounds for the denial and allow the individual an opportunity to
provide additional relevant information.
(7) Ensures individuals authorized unescorted access to radionuclides of concern have a reinvestigation as per 10
CFR 37–25(c) within 10 years of the date when unescorted access was granted. Follow the procedures in paragraphs
8–3c(1) to 8–3c(4) of this pamphlet to determine whether the individual’s unescorted access authorization is maintained
or terminated.
(8) Maintains a roster of individuals with unescorted access authorization.
(a) This roster is signed by the reviewing official and countersigned by the licensee’s command security manager.
The roster should include the date and type of background investigation completed, and the date when the unescorted
access authorization was approved or was last maintained based on a reinvestigation.
(b) The roster is updated when an individual has been newly authorized unescorted access, or when an individual’s
access authorization is maintained based on a reinvestigation. The roster is updated promptly (but no later than 7
working days) by removing individuals whose unescorted access authorization has been terminated or who no longer
require unescorted access.
(9) Obtains documentation of unescorted access authorization for contractor source maintenance personnel.
(a) When source maintenance personnel who require unescorted access are contracted, the maintenance company
shall provide to the reviewing official written documentation which includes the name of the employee providing the
service and a statement that the employee has been deemed trustworthy and reliable in accordance with 10 CFR 37.
29(a)(13).
(b) Unescorted access is only authorized with written documentation and phone confirmation by the reviewing
official with the company providing the service and with the contracting officer technical representative of the contract.
d. The Army NRC licensee:
(1) Conduct an annual review of the unescorted access authorization program for content and implementation per 10
CFR 37.33.
(2) Maintain documentation of the unescorted access authorization program per 10 CFR 37.23(h) and 10 CFR 37.33.
8–4. Security of radionuclides of concerns
a. The security intent and objective is to reduce the risk of malevolent use of radionuclides of concern. Security
measures cannot prevent 100 percent of all attempts at theft, sabotage, or diversion; however, in total, the measures
provide multiple layers of security, or a “security in depth,” that are designed to provide enhanced security and mitigate
potential consequences.
(1) The Army NRC licensee will develop a written physical security plan to establish the licensee’s overall security
strategy. The plan will be developed per 10 CFR 37.43(a).
(2) The Army NRC licensee will develop and maintain written procedures that document how the requirements of
this chapter, the security plan, and 10 CFR 37 will be met. The procedures will be developed per 10 CFR 37.43(b).
(3) Security personnel must assist the reviewing official in developing all the enhanced security requirements
outlined in chapter 8 of this pamphlet.
b. Facilities, vaults, and containers used for storage of radionuclides of concern are designated a mission essential
and vulnerable area and a restricted area in accordance with AR 190–13. Such facilities, vaults, and containers are not
to be used for storage of classified material. A vulnerability assessment and risk analysis shall be conducted of the area
not less than every 3 years in accordance with AR 190–51 and DA Pam 190–51.
c. Access control measures are implemented to ensure that only those authorized individuals have unescorted access
to radionuclides of concern. Access control can be achieved by implementing one or more of the following measures.
(1) Limiting distribution of keys, keycards, access codes, or combination to doors and gates to individuals with
unescorted access authorization.
(2) Remote activation of locked doors and gates using remote surveillance.
(3) Using a card reader and electronic locking devices at entry control points.
(4) Constant surveillance by an individual with unescorted access authorization.
Note. Keys and locks are controlled in accordance with AR 190–51 and the DOD Key and Lock Program.

d. Constant monitoring is performed to facilitate the immediate detection, assessment, and response to an incident
involving a radionuclide of concern. Monitoring may be accomplished by any of the following examples.
(1) A monitored Intrusion Detection System with the capability to detect unauthorized entry and is linked to an onsite or off-site central monitoring facility. Requirements for the intrusion detection system are specified in AR 190–13.
(2) An electronic device for intrusion detection (alarms that alert nearby facility personnel).
(3) A 24–hour surveillance (video surveillance cameras, and visual inspection by trained personnel).
e. Procedures are established for assessing and responding to unauthorized entry or entry attempts so that prompt
mitigating measures can be taken. Assessment is accomplished annually by trained personnel who can initiate the
appropriate response actions. The procedures address the possibility of simultaneous alarms at multiple locations.

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(1) The Army NRC licensee has a prearranged plan with the local law enforcement agency (LLEA) for assistance.
(2) The Army NRC licensee ensures that an exercise (can include a tabletop exercise) of the assessment and
response procedures is conducted annually, in conjunction with the LLEA.
(3) In the event of an actual or attempted theft, sabotage, or diversion of radionuclides of concern, the Army NRC
licensee ensures that the LLEA is notified immediately, followed soon thereafter by a call to the NRC Operations
Center at (301) 816–5100, the appropriate Army NRC license RSO, appropriate Headquarters RSSO, and Army Safety
Office (703) 697–1194/1128. Telephone calls to notify the NRC and appropriate Army NRC license RSO should be as
prompt as possible, but not at the expense of causing delay or interfering with LLEA response to the event.
f. A Category 2 Serious Incident Report will be submitted per AR 190–45 for theft, loss, or recovery of
radionuclides of concern or mismanagement of inventory records or assets. Reporting of the theft, loss, or recovery to
the Army NRC license RSO will be per chapter 6 of this pamphlet, DA Pam 385–40, and 10 CFR 20.802, and 10 CFR
37.57.
g. The Army NRC licensee will have a documented training program for employees on implementation of these
measures. The training addresses the access control system employed and notification procedures in the event of
unauthorized access and potential malevolent activities. The training shall also include the process for reporting any
suspicious activities to security and management. The training and refresher training will be in accordance with 10
CFR 37.43(c).
h. The Army NRC licensee ensures that a security program review is conducted annually for content and
implementation.
i. Refer to 10 CFR 37 Subpart D for specific requirements for transportation of radionuclides of concern, including
advance notifications required for Category 1 radioactive materials.

Chapter 9
Decommissioning of Facilities
9–1. General
a. Each facility that contained unsealed radioactive materials or was contaminated by radioactive materials is to be
decommissioned prior to release.
b. If the radioactive material was NRC-licensed, the facility will be decommissioned in accordance with NRC
guidance in NUREG 1757 and NUREG 1575 MARSSIM.
c. The following sections (9–2 through 9–5) apply for facilities that contained AMC NRC licensed radioactive
commodities and for areas that qualify for the simplified guidance in MARSSIM, Appendix B.
9–2. Classification for decommissioning purposes
Army radioactive commodities do not cause contamination during normal use. Therefore, unless contamination is
known to exist or is found during surveys, consider facilities that contained only radioactive commodities (and no other
radioactive material) to be Group 1 sites as described in NUREG 1757.
9–3. Procedure
a. Surveys of radioactive commodity facilities that remain under the control of the Army are “routine release
surveys” as per guidance in section 9–5.
b. Otherwise (for example, base realignment and closure sites, formerly used defense sites, foreign sites), surveys
are “final status surveys” following the guidance in NUREG 1757 and NUREG 1575 with limitation and conditions as
specified.
c. In cases where contamination of a facility involving a sealed-source radioactive commodity, the alternative
simplified survey procedures are used (see NUREG 1757, vol 2).
9–4. Typical process for areas that leave Army control
a. Radiation safety expertise. The closing site solicits radiation safety expertise from the applicable licensee to
conduct surveys following this guidance. If contamination is expected, contact the AMC NRC commodity license RSO
identified in table 6–1 for further direction because the effort requires experienced decommissioning personnel and is
beyond the scope of this guidance. However, when no radioactive contamination is expected, the areas are classified as
Class 3, and a unit, local, or installation level RSO may be able to perform the final surveys using this guidance and
assistance for the radioactive commodity licensees identified in table 6–1. Steps typically include:
(1) Performing and documenting a Historical Site Assessment (HSA) with approval from the applicable AMC NRC
commodity license RSO.
(2) Formulating survey plans approved by applicable AMC NRC commodity license RSO.

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

33

(3) Determinating NRC’s default Derived Concentration Guideline Levels (DCGLs) for release of the site for the
applicable radioisotopes of concern.
(4) Coordinating survey plans and release limits with the stakeholders.
(5) In the case of OCONUS sites, coordinating survey plans and release limits with the host-nation.
(6) Performing and documenting final surveys.
(7) Filing the HSA and survey results at the unit, installation public works directorates, AMC NRC commodity
licensee RSO, AMC RSSO, and ARSO.
(8) Funding for wipe test analysis may be required by the appointed licensed Army lab.
b. Area classification. An HSA is conducted to identify areas where NRC licensed or radium containing commodities were stored (long-term), repaired, cannibalized, or buried. A review of the type of operation, as well as any history
of accidents, incidents, and leak tests, is used to classify areas. Any routine surveys, as well as any release surveys
previously conducted in the area, is also considered for inclusion in the HSA. Commodity areas is classified as follows:
(1) Non-impacted - The following storage areas do not require any surveys. It is necessary to document the areas
considered and to justify why no surveys were performed. An example is static storage of sealed sources.
(a) Short-term temporary storage areas.
(b) Where individual item activity did not require posting as a “Radioactive Material” area as per 10 CFR 20.
1902(e) which requires posting when radionuclide activity is 10 times the amount in 10 CFR 20.
(c) Where generally licensed smoke detectors, exit signs, and exempt license devices such as advanced combat
optical gunsites were stored.
(d) Where a specific NRC licensed condition relieved the “Radioactive Material” posting requirement for bulk
storage (for example, less than 1,000 tritium compasses).
(e) Where armored vehicles with intact DU shielding were present.
(f) Where sealed NRC licensed commodities and generally licensed items were present, and leak testing indicated no
sealed source leakage. This would include temporary repair, fielding missions.
(2) Class 3 - Most radioactive commodity areas that cannot be classified “Non-impacted” is classified as Class 3.
Where historical information indicates an accidental release occurred but has already been cleaned to present day
standards, as per NRC Regulatory Guide 1.86 (Reg Guide 1.86) levels for unrestricted release, the area can also be
classified as Class 3.
(3) Class 1 and Class 2 - These classifications are for areas where there is known contamination. This would most
likely occur in commodity repair and maintenance areas, radioactive waste storage areas, and cannibalization and
demilitarization facilities. It might also occur where a commodity was known to have been broken and leaked, and in
areas where an accidental release occurred in the past that has not been decontaminated to releasable limits. As stated
earlier, when radioactive contamination is expected (Class 1 and Class 2) experienced decommissioning personnel are
required, and a rigorous application of MARSSIM beyond the scope of this section is required. Contact the AMC NRC
commodity license RSO in table 6–1 for further direction.
c. Final surveys.
(1) Random sampling of building surfaces. Building surface of concern are the floor and walls to a height of 2
meters above the floor. For Class 3 areas, random sampling is used to eliminate the need for gridding and moving
furniture. As permitted by MARSSIM Appendix B and NUREG 1757, thirty (30) random locations can be used to
cover each survey unit. A survey unit is an area or group of areas (indoor units not exceeding 2,000 square meters)
with a similar history and the same contamination potential. A survey unit can be a room or group of rooms that have
the same history of use and contamination potential. If all 30 locations measure below the release limit of Reg Guide 1.
86, the MARSSIM statistical tests are not required to demonstrate compliance. An alternate sampling method may be
used in accordance with NUREG 1757, volume 2 “simplified survey procedures” for non-leaking sealed sources which
allows one area 100 cm2 wipe per 300 ft2 in a survey unit. This method is acceptable but must be approved by the
applicable AMC NRC commodity license RSO. This survey method significantly reduces the time and cost for the
final status survey.
(2) Wipe testing of building surfaces. Contact the AMC NRC commodity license RSO identified in table 6–1 to
obtain wipe test supplies and instructions. If tritium containing commodities were present, special tritium wipes are
required. NUREG 1757, volume 2, “simplified survey procedures” apply.
(3) Static measurements on building surfaces. Contact the AMC NRC license RSO identified in table 6–1 for
guidance selecting an appropriate instrument and counting mode (count rate vs. integrated count). The level detected at
each random location is compared to the level in a “background area,” for example, an area of similar construction
with no radioactive material or radioactive commodity history. The results are recorded. If any levels noticeably
exceeding background are detected, immediately notify the AMC NRC license RSO in table 6–1.
(4) Scanning. One hundred percent of all surfaces in the facility are scanned with a thin window pancake-type probe
or alpha/beta scintillation probe held within 1 cm of the surface in accordance with NUREG 1757 volume 2,
“simplified survey procedures”. The alpha emitting and gamma emitting radioactive commodities are subject to
periodic leak testing. In the absence of a history of alpha or gamma source leakage, scanning for alpha or gamma
radiation is therefore not required. Most of the radioactive commodities that are not periodically leak tested use low
34

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

energy beta emitters. Scanning for a low energy beta emitter is not feasible. Scanning will therefore not be required for
H–3 (Tritium), Pm-147, or Ni-63 commodities. In the absence of expected or known DU contamination, scanning for
DU is not considered feasible. However, if contamination is known or expected to exist in an area, the area will be
classified as Class 1 or Class 2, and scanning will be performed as part of a more extensive effort beyond the scope of
this section.
(5) Furniture and equipment. If the furniture and equipment are still present in an area, they will also be surveyed.
The furniture and equipment in a survey unit will likewise be covered with 30 sample locations. Since it is difficult to
identify random locations on furniture and equipment with odd shapes, NUREG 1761 recommends the use of biased
sampling, for example, locations most likely to be contaminated. This would include the surfaces of tables, shelves,
drawers, and so forth that were in direct contact with the commodities. As with the building surfaces, wipe tests and
static measurements will be made for each location, and documented. NUREG 1757, volume 2, “simplified survey
procedures” will apply.
(6) Drains, vents, and ducts. Wipe testing and static measurements of drains, vents, and ducts is not required for
Class 3 areas.
(7) Characterization surveys. Characterization surveys are not required in Class 3 areas.
(8) Verification surveys. Verification surveys are not required in Class 3 areas.
d. Instrumentation. Instruments and methods chosen shall be capable of detecting 25 percent of the DCGL for the
release of buildings and 50 percent of the DCGL for the release of grounds.
e. Reporting. Each unit, local, and installation RSO or tenant RSO notifies the AMC RSSO when a building or area
that currently or formerly contained AMC radioactive commodities is scheduled for demolition or will no longer
contain AMC radioactive commodities. The AMC RSSO then notifies the AMC NRC commodity license RSO to
ensure survey efforts fulfill the requirements of this guidance, and to ensure the NRC is notified as appropriate.
(1) Unless a facility is specifically listed on an NRC license for Class 3 commodity areas (no history of contamination), the NRC does not need to be notified of impending shutdown or change in operational status. The NRC also does
not need to be informed that surveys are to be conducted in Class 3 commodity areas, or of the results of the survey,
unless contamination is found. Records of the HSA and any surveys performed in a Class 3 commodity area must be
filed at the unit, installation, AMC RSSO, and AMC NRC commodity license RSO. This information may be required
at a later date to demonstrate to the NRC that the area was properly released.
(2) NRC has advised that notification of the NRC is required when facilities listed in the license contain areas that
are expected to be, or are contaminated (Class 1 or Class 2). In this event, within 60 days of a decision to permanently
cease commodity activities in such an area, or if no commodity activities have been conducted in such an area for a
period of 24 months, the licensee must notify the NRC that the decommissioning process has begun, or within one year
submit a decommissioning plan. See 10 CFR 30.36 for further information. To support these efforts, the unit, local, and
installation RSO provides the AMC NRC commodity license RSO with the history of past commodity uses, contamination events, commodity inventories, and routine survey records for the areas to be released. It is the responsibility of
the AMC NRC license RSO to notify the NRC of decommissioning.
9–5. Typical process for areas that will not leave Army control
Routine release surveys will be required so the area can return to unrestricted use.
a. Coordinate with regulators. Coordination with regulators is not required unless required by 9–5e below.
b. Area classification. The radioactive commodity area will remain classified as “restricted” until routine release
survey results demonstrate compliance with “unrestricted area” contamination levels as defined in NRC regulatory
guidance, AR 385–10, this pamphlet, or the conditions of the AMC NRC commodity license.
c. Routine release surveys. Formal conduct of the MARSSIM process, to include the HSA, area classification,
derivation of DCGLs, and final surveys are not required. The extensive, expensive, and formal process may be required
at a later date when transfer of the area from U.S. Army control is planned. But for a routine release survey, the
selection of 30 random measurement locations per survey unit for building surfaces and 30 locations for the furniture
and equipment in each survey unit is recommended. NUREG 1757, volume 2, “simplified survey procedures” will
apply.
d. Instrumentation. As a matter of standard practice, instruments and methods chosen for the routine release surveys
shall be capable of discerning the release limit in the presence of background radiation.
e. Reporting. Each unit, local, and installation RSO and tenant RSO will notify the AMC RSSO when a building or
area that currently or formerly contained AMC radioactive commodities is scheduled for demolition or will no longer
contain AMC radioactive commodities. The AMC RSSO will then notify the AMC NRC commodity license RSO and
ensure the survey efforts fulfill the requirements of this guidance, and to ensure the NRC is notified as appropriate. For
Class 3 commodity areas (no history of contamination) the NRC does not need to be notified of impending shutdown
or change in operational status. The NRC also does not need to be informed that surveys will be conducted in Class 3
commodity areas, or of the results of the survey unless contamination is found. NRC has advised that notification of
the NRC is required when areas are expected to beor are contaminated (Class 1 or Class 2). In this event, within 60
days of a decision to permanently cease commodity activities in such an area, or if no AMC commodity activities have

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

35

been conducted in such an area for a period of 24 months, the AMC NRC commodity license RSO must notify the
NRC that the decommissioning process has begun, or within one year submit a decommissioning plan. To support
these efforts, the unit, local, and installation RSO will be required to provide the AMC NRC commodity license RSO
with the history of past commodity uses, commodities used, contamination events, commodity inventories, and routine
surveys records for the area to be released.
f. Recordkeeping. Each unit, local, and IMCOM RSSO, and commodity-using tenant RSO will maintain decommissioning records of radioactive commodity locations, leakage and contamination incidents, and routine survey results as
required by AR 25–400–2.

36

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

Appendix A
References
Section I
Required Publications
AR 25–400–2
The Army Records Information Management System (ARIMS) (Cited in para para 1–4s(7).)
AR 40–5
Preventive Medicine (Cited in para para 1–4i(5).)
AR 40–10
Health Hazard Assessment Program in Support of the Army Acquisition Process (Cited in para 1–4i(4).)
AR 50–7
Army Reactor Program (Cited in para 2–6c(6).)
AR 70–1
Army Acquisition Policy (Cited in para 2–3a.)
AR 200–1
Environmental Protection and Enhancement (Cited in para para 2–3f.)
AR 360–1
The Army Public Affairs Program (Cited in para para 6–1c.)
AR 385–10
The Army Safety Program (Cited in para 1–1.)
AR 710–3
Inventory Management Asset and Transaction Reporting System (Cited in para para 1–4u(6).)
AR 750–43
Army Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment (Cited in para 1–4e(4).)
ATP 5–19
Risk Management (Cited in para 1–4d(3).)
DA Pam 40–11
Preventive Medicine (Cited in para 2–3a.)
DA Pam 70–3
Army Acquisition Procedures (Cited in para 2–3a.)
DA Pam 385–16
System Safety Management Guide (Cited in para 2–3a.)
DA Pam 385–25
Occupational Dosimetry and Dose Recording for Exposure to Ionizing Radiation (Cited in para para 1–4e(2).)
DA Pam 385–30
Risk Management (Cited in para 1–4d(3).)
DA Pam 385–40
Army Accident Investigations and Reporting (Cited in para para 1–4m(10).)
DA Pam 385–63
Range Safety (Cited in para 3–1e.)

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

37

DOD 4160.21–M–1
Defense Demilitarization Manual (Cited in para 1-4g(6)(b).) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)
DOD 4500.9–R
Defense Transportation Regulations (Cited in para 2-18d.) (Available at http://www.transcom.mil/dtr/dtrHome/.)
DODD 4715.11
Environmental and Explosives Safety Management on Operational Ranges within the United States (Cited in para 223a.) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)
DODD 4715.12
Environmental and Explosives Safety Management on Operational Ranges Outside the United States (Cited in para 223a.) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)
DODI 5000.69
DOD Joint Services Weapon and Laser System Safety Review Processes (Cited in para 1-4d(2)g(iv).) (Available at
http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)
DODI 6055.05
Occupational and Environmental Health (OEH) (Cited in para para 1-4i(6).) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/
directives/.)
DODI 6055.08
Occupational Ionizing Radiation Protection Program (Cited in para 1-4d(2)g(i).) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/
directives/.)
DODI 6055.11
Protecting Personnel from Electromagnetic Field (Cited in para 1-4d(2)g(ii).) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/
directives/.)
DODI 6055.15
DOD Laser Protection Program (Cited in para 1–4d(2)g(iii).) (Available at http:www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)
DODI 6490.03
Deployment Health (Cited in para 7–4f(1).) (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/.)
TB 43–0133
Hazard Controls for CECOM Radiofrequency and Optical Radiation Producing Equipment (Cited in para 4–1a.)
TB 43–0180
Calibration and Repair Requirements for the Maintenance of Army Material (Cited in para 2–15c.) (Available at http://
www/usamma.amedd.army.mil/assets/docs/TB_43–180.pdf.)
TB 750–25
Maintenance of Supplies and Equipment: Army Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) Calibration
and Repair Support (C&RS) Program (Cited in para 1–4e(4).)
TB MED 523
Control of Hazards to Health from Microwave and Radio Frequency Radiation and Ultrasound (Cited in para 4–1a.)
TB MED 524
Occupational and Environmental Health: Control of Hazards to Health from Laser Radiation (Cited in para 3–1f(1).)
10 CFR 19.13
Notifications and reports to individuals (Cited in para 1–4e(2)(d).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
10 CFR 31
General domestic licenses for byproduct material (Cited in para 2–6c(1).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)

38

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

10 CFR 40
Domestic licensing of source material (Cited in para 2–6c(1).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
10 CFR 70
Domestic licensing of special nuclear material (Cited in para 2–6c(1)).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
10 CFR 71
Packaging and transportation of radioactive material (Cited in para 2–18d).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
10 CFR 150
Exemptions and continued regulatory authority in agreement states and in offshore waters under section 274 (Cited in
para 2–7b(1)(c)).) (Available at http://www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.html.)
21 CFR
Food and drugs (Cited in para 1–4d(2)(b).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
21 CFR 1020.40
Cabinet x-ray systems (Cited in para 2–7b(4).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
29 CFR
Labor (Cited in para 1–4d(2)(f).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
32 CFR 651
Environmental analysis of Army actions (Cited in para 2–3f.) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
32 CFR 655
Radiation sources on Army land (Cited in para 2–3f.) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
40 CFR
Protection of environment (Cited in para 1–4d(2)(e).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
49 CFR
Transportation (Cited in para 1–4d(2)(f).) (Available at http://www.ecfr.gov.)
Section II
Related Publications
A related publication is a source of additional information. The user does not have to read it to understand this
pamphlet.
AR 11–2
Managers’ Internal Control Program
AR 11–34
The Army Respiratory Protection Program
AR 25–30
The Army Publishing Program
AR 25–55
The Department of the Army Freedom of Information Act Program
AR 40–13
Radiological Advisory Medical Teams
AR 40–66
Medical Record Administration and Health Care Documentation
AR 50–5
Nuclear Surety

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

39

AR 190–11
Physical Security of Arms, Ammunitions, and Explosives
AR 190–13
The Army Physical Security Program
AR 190–45
Law Enforcement Reporting
AR 190–51
Security of Unclassified Army Property (Sensitive and Nonsensitive)
AR 190–56
The Army Civilian Police and Security Guard Program
AR 340–21
The Army Privacy Program
AR 380–67
Personnel Security Program
AR 385–63
Range Safety
AR 725–50
Requisitioning, Receipt, and Issue System
AR 735–5
Property Accountability Policies
DA Pam 50–5
Nuclear Accident or Incident Response and Assistance (NAIRA) Operations
DA Pam 190–51
Risk Analysis for Army Property
ADP 5–0
The Operations Process
ANSI/HPS N2.1–2013
Radiation Symbol (Available at http://global.ihs.com/standards.cfm?publisher=HPS&rid=HPS, free for Health Physics
Society Members.)
ANSI N13.12
Surface and Volume Radioactivity Standards for Clearance (Available at http://global.ihs.com, free for Health Physics
Society Members.)
ANSI N13.30
Performance Criteria for Radiobioassay (Available at http://global.ihs.com, free for Health Physics Society Members.)
ANSI N43.1
Radiological Safety for the Design and Operation of Particle Accelerators. (Available at http://global.ihs.com, free for
Health Physics Society Members.)
ANSI N43.2
Radiation Safety for X–Ray Diffraction and Fluorescence Analysis Equipment (Available at http://global.ihs.com, free
for Health Physics Society Members.)

40

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

ANSI N43.3
General Radiation Safety Standard—Installations Using Non-Medical X–Ray and Sealed Gamma-Ray Sources,
Energies Up to 10 MeV (Available at http://global.ihs.com, free for Health Physics Society Members.)
ANSI N43.17
Radiation Safety for Personnel Security Screening Systems Using X-rays or Gamma Radiation (Available at http://
global.ihs.com, free for Health Physics Society Members.)
ANSI N323
Radiation Protection Instrumentation Test and Calibration (Available at http://ansi.org.)
ANSI Z136.1
Safe Use of Lasers (Available at https://www.lia.org.)
ANSI Z136.3
Safe Use of Lasers in Health Care Facilities (Available at https://www.lia.org.)
ANSI Z136.6
Safe Use of Lasers Outdoors (Available at https://www.lia.org.)
AST–1500Z–100–93
Identification Guide for Radioactive Sources in Foreign Materiel (Available at https://cecomsafety.apg.army.mil.)
Atomic Energy Act of 1954, Title 1
Special Nuclear Material (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
DLAI 4145.8/NAVSUPINST 4000.34C/AFJI 23–504/MCO P4400.105
Material Management for radioactive Items in the DOD (Available at https://acc.dau.mil.)
International Air Transport Association, Section 10
Dangerous Goods Regulation (Available at http://www.iata.org/.)
IEEE C95.1
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Radio
Frequency Electromagnetic Fields, 3 kHz to 300 GHz (Available at http://standards.ieee.org.)
IEEE C95.1–2345
Military Workplaces—Force Health Protection Regarding Personnel Exposure to Electric, Magnetic, and
Electromagnetic Fields, 0Hz to 300GHz (Available at http://standards.ieee.org.)
IEEE C95.2
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Standard for Radio-Frequency Energy and Current-Flow Symbols
(Available at http://standards.ieee.org.)
IEEE C95.3
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Recommended Practice for the Measurement of Potentially Hazardous
Electromagnetic Fields- RF and Microwave (Available at http://standards.ieee.org.)
IEEE C95.6
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to
Electromagnetic Fields, 0–3 kHz (Available at http://standards.ieee.org.)
IEEE C95.7
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Recommended Practice for Radio Frequency Safety Programs, 3 kHz
to 300 GHz (Available at http://standards.ieee.org.)
Joint Publication 3–11
Operations in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Environments (Available at http://www.dtic.mil/
doctrine/new_pubs/jp3_11.pdf.)

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

41

MIL–HDBK–828B
Range Laser Safety (Available at https://cecomsafety.apg.army.mil/RSO2/tbtmtrs/hbk_laser.pdf.)
MIL–STD–129
Military Marking for Shipping and Storage (Available at http://www.acq.osd.mil/log/sci/ait/MIL–STD–129PCH4.pdf.)
MIL–STD 1425A
DOD Design Criteria Standard, Safety Design Requirements for Military Lasers and Associated Support Equipment
(Available at http://www.navsea.navy.mil.)
NCRP Report 123
Screening Models for Releases of Radionuclides to the Atmosphere, Surface Water and Ground (Available at http://
www.ncrponline.org/Publications/Press_Releases/123press.html.)
NRC Directive 8.10 and Handbook 8.10
NRC Medical Event Assessment Program (Available at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ML0414/ML041410592.pdf.)
NRC Regulatory Guide 1.86
Termination of Operating Licenses for Nuclear Reactors (Available at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ML0037/
ML003739563.pdf.)
NRC Regulatory Guide 8.10
Operating Philosophy for Maintaining Occupational Radiation Exposures As Low As Is Reasonably Achievable
(Available at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ML0037/ML003739563.pdf.)
NRC Regulatory Guide 8.13
Instruction Concerning Prenatal Radiation Exposure (Available at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov/docs/ML1306/
ML13064A087.pdf.)
NRC Regulatory Guide 8.29
Instruction Concerning Risks from Occupational Radiation Exposure (Available at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov.)
NUREG 1505, Rev 1
A Nonparametric Statistical Methodology for the Design and Analysis of Final Status Decommissioning Surveys Interim Draft Report for Comment and Use (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
NUREG 1507
Minimum Detectable Concentrations with Typical Radiation Survey Instruments for Various Contaminates and Field
Conditions (Available at http://pbadupws.nrc.gov.)
NUREG 1556
Consolidated Guidance about Materials Licenses, Volumes 1–21 (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
NUREG 1575
Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM) (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
NUREG 1757
Consolidated Decommissioning Guidance, Volumes 1–3 (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
NUREG 1761
Radiological Surveys for Controlling Release of Solid Materials-Draft Report for Comment (Available at http://www.
nrc.gov.)
NUREG 2155
Implementation Guidance for 10 CFR Part 37, “Physical Protection of Category 1 and Category 2 Quantities of
Radioactive Material” (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
OSHA Directive, CPL 02–00–086 – CPL 2.86
Memorandum of Understanding between the OSHA and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Available at https://
www.osha.gov/.)

42

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OSHA 1910.1096
Toxic and Hazardous Substances - Ionizing radiation (Available at https://www.osha.gov/.)
OTSG Policy Memo, dated 11 April 1994
Surveillance of Laser and Radio frequency Radiation Personnel (Available at http://phc.amedd.army.mil/Pages/default.
aspx.)
Public Law 93–438
Energy Reorganization Act of 1974 (Available at http://www.uscode.gov.)
TB 9–665–285–24
Army Calibration Program for RADIAC Meters (Available at http://www.logsa.army.mil.)
TB 43–0116
Identification of Radioactive Items in the Army
TB 43–0137
Transportation Information for U.S. Army Radioactive Commodities
TB 43–0197
Instructions for Safe Handling, Maintenance, Storage, and Transportation of Radioactive Items Under License
12–00722–06
TB 43–0216
Safety and Hazard Warnings for Operation and Maintenance of TACOM Equipment
TB 385–4
Safety Requirements for Maintenance of Electrical and Electronic Equipment
TB MED 521
Occupational and Environmental Health: Management and Control of Diagnostic, Therapeutic, and Medical Research
X–Ray Systems and Facilities
TB MED 522
Control of Health Hazards from Radioactive Material Used in Self-Luminous Devices
TB MED 525
Control of Hazards to Health from Ionizing Radiation Used by the Army Medical Department
TM 3–261
Handling and Disposal of Unwanted Radioactive Material
Technical Report 94–11
Radiation Protection Information for the Safe Handling of Tritium Sources in Radioluminescent Devices (Available at
the National Ground Intelligence Center (IANG–TCN) 220 7th St, NE, Charlottesville, VA 22902–5396.)
10 CFR
Energy (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
10 CFR, Chapter 1
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
10 CFR 20, Appendix B
Annual limits on intake (ALIs) and derived air concentrations (DACs) of radionuclides for occupational exposure;
effluent concentrations; concentrations for release to sewerage (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.1003
Definitions (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

43

10 CFR 20.1004
Units of radiation dose (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.1301
Dose limits for individual members of the public (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.1501
General (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.2106
Records of individual monitoring results (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.2110
Form of records (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.2201
Reports of theft or loss of licensed material (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.2205
Reports of individuals of exceeding dose limits (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 20.2206
Reports of individual monitoring (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 30.5
Interpretations (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 30.14
Exempt concentrations (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 30.18
Exempt quantities (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 30.20
Gas and aerosol detectors containing by- product material (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 30.35
Financial assurance and recordkeeping for decommissioning (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 30.36
Expiration and termination of licenses and decommissionin of sites and separte buildings or outdoor areas. (Available
at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 37
Physical protection of category 1 and category 2 quantities of radioactive material (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 37.23
Access authorization program requirements (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 37.25
Background investigations (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 37.31
Protection of information (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 37.43
General security program requirements (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 37.57
Reporting of events (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)

44

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10 CFR 40.11
Persons using source material under certain Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory Commission contracts.
(Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 40.13
Domestic licensing of source material-unimportant quantities of source material (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 40.36
Domestic licensing of source material-financial assurance and recordkeeping for decommissioning (Available at http://
nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 61
Licensing requirements for land disposal of radioactive waste (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 62
Criteria and procedures for emergence access to non-Federal and regional low-level waste disposal facilities (Available
at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 70
Domestic licensing of special nuclear material (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 70.19
Domestic licensing of special nuclear material-General license for calibration or reference sources (Available at http://
www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 70.25
Domestic licensing of special nuclear material-Financial assurance and recordkeeping for decommissioning (Available
at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 110, Appendix P
Export and import of nuclear equipment and material, appendix P category 1 and 2 radioactive material (Available at
http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 150.20
Recognition of agreement state licenses (Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)
10 CFR 835
Occupational radiation protection (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
21 CFR 1002
Records and reports (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
21 CFR 1020
Performance standards for ionizing radiation emitting products (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
21 CFR 1040
Performance standards for light-emitting products (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
21 CFR 1040.10
Laser products (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
21 CFR 1040.11
Specific purpose laser products (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
29 CFR 1910.1096
Ionizing radiation (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
29 CFR 1926.53
Ionizing radiation (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

45

29 CFR 1926.54
Nonionizing radiation (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
49 CFR 173.1
Purpose and scope (Available at http://www.gpo.gov.)
Section III
Prescribed Forms
Unless otherwise indicated below, DA forms are available on the Army Publishing Directorate Web site (http://www.
apd.army.mil/) .
DA Form 3337
Application for Army Radiation Authorization (Prescribed in para 2–6e(1).)
Section IV
Referenced Forms
Unless otherwise indicated, DA forms are available on the Army Publishing Directorate Web site (http://www.apd.
army.mil/)
DA Form 285–AB
U.S. Army Abbreviated Ground Accident Report
DA Form 2028
Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms
NRC Form 241
Report of Proposed Activities in Non-Agreement States, Areas of Exclusive Federal Jurisdiction or Offshore Waters
(Available at http://www.nrc.gov.)

Appendix B
Annual Radiation Safety Audit Checklist
B–1. Function
The function covered by this checklist is radiation safety.
B–2. Purpose
The purpose of this checklist is to assist commanders/directors and RSOs in evaluating the key program elements listed
below. It is not intended to cover all aspects of the program.
B–3. Instructions
Answers must be based on the actual testing of key program elements (for example, document analysis, direct
observation, sampling, and simulation). Answers that indicate deficiencies must be explained and corrective action
indicated in supporting documentation. These questions are the minimum used to adequately assess a radiation safety
program for the annual audit. However, some questions may not apply to a specific program and may be rated as not
applicable or N/A.
B–4. Checklist questions
a. If required has a person been designated in writing to be RSO? Has the RSO been trained (chapter 7)?
b. If required has a written radiation safety SOP been established?
c. Are all personnel occupationally exposed to radiation receiving radiation safety training?
d. Are all radiation sources secured against unauthorized use and removal?
e. Are all controllable quantities of radioactive material and radiation-producing sources held by the unit under
appropriate authority (for example, an NRC license, an Army radiation authorization, or as part of a radioactive
commodity)?
f. Is all radioactive waste disposed of properly?
g. Are all radiation survey instruments used for health and safety appropriately calibrated?
h. For Army laser ranges, have all type-classified or commercial Class 3B or Class 4 lasers received appropriate
evaluation before their use?

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i. Are all unwanted military-exempt lasers disposed of properly?
j. Are all accidents and incidents involving personnel radiation exposure or radioactive contamination of facilities,
equipment, or the environment, or loss of radioactive materials promptly reported through appropriate channels?
k. Do all personnel occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation or radioactive material above applicable levels
participate in an appropriate dosimetry or bioassay program?
l. Is the dose in all unrestricted areas less than 2 millirems (0.02 millisieverts) in any one hour?
m. Are historical records on hand for licenses, ARA, ARP, disposal, and personnel exposures?
n. Are radiation surveys and leak tests performed at the prescribed interval?
o. Is there a need for an RSC and is it meeting the intent?
p. Is there an environmental impact based on the impact of the radiation safety program?
q. Are inventories of radioactive materials being completed at required intervals?
r. Are EMF sources that need a radiation safety program being inventoried at required intervals?
s. Are the NRC posting requirements being met and are emergency contact numbers posted conspicuously?

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

47

Glossary
Section I
Abbreviations
ACOM
Army command
ACSIM
Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management
ADC
U.S. Army Dosimetry Center
ALARA
as low as reasonably achievable
ALI
Annual Limit of Intake
AMC
U.S. Army Materiel Command
AMCOM
U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Command
ANSI
American National Standards Institute
AR
Army Regulation
ARA
Army radiation authorization
ARIMS
Army Records Information Management System
ARNG
Army National Guard
ARP
Army radiation permit
ARSC
Army Radiation Safety Council
ARSO
Army Radiation Safety Officer
ASA (IE&E)
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Installations, Energy and Environment)
ASA (M&RA)
Assistant Secretary of the Army (Manpower and Reserve Affairs)
ASCC
Army service component command
CEDE
committed effective dose equivalent

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CECOM LCMC
U.S. Army CECOM Life Cycle Management Command
CFR
Code of Federal Regulations
CG
commanding general
CONUS
continental United States
CSA
Chief of Staff, Army
cm
centimeter
DA
Department of the Army
DASAF
Director of Army Safety
DOD
Department of Defense
DODI
Department of Defense instruction
DOE
Department of Energy
DOT
Department of Transportation
DRU
direct reporting unit
DSN
Defense Switched Network
DU
depleted uranium
ED
effective dose
EMR
electromagnetic radiation
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
eV
electron volt
FDA
Food and Drug Administration

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

49

FM
field manual
FORSCOM
U.S. Army Forces Command
GHz
gigahertz
GOCO
Government-owned contractor-operated
HDBK
handbook
HQDA
Headquarters, Department of the Army
Hz
Hertz
IEEE
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
IMCOM
U.S. Army Installation Management Command
IR
infrared
JMC
Joint Munitions Command
kHz
kilohertz
km
kilometer
laser
light amplification by stimulated emitted radiation
LCMC
Life Cycle Management Command
LSO
laser safety officer
m
meter
MEDCOM
U.S. Army Medical Command
mg
milligram
MIL
military

50

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

MHz
megahertz
mm
millimeter
mrad
millirad
MSC
major subordinate command
NCRP
National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements
NGB
National Guard Bureau
nm
nanometer
NRC
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
NUREG
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulation
NVLAP
National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program
OCONUS
outside the continental United States
OSHA
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
OTSG
Office of The Surgeon General
PM
program manager
PPE
personal protection equipment
PSSS
Personnel Security Screening Systems
RAM
radioactive material
RF
radio frequency
RSC
Radiation Safety Committee
RSO
radiation safety officer

DA PAM 385–24 • 30 November 2015

51

RSP
Radiation Safety Program
RSSO
radiation safety staff officer
SI
Systemé Internationale (International System)
SOFA
Status of Forces Agreement
SOP
standing operating procedure
TACOM
U.S. Army Tank-automotive and Armaments Command
TB
technical bulletin
TB MED
technical bulletin (medical)
TM
technical manual
TRADOC
U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command
TSG
The Surgeon General
U.S.
United States
USADC
U.S. Army Dosimetry Center
USAR
U.S. Army Reserve
UV
ultraviolet
Section II
Terms
Absorbed dose
The energy absorbed from the incident radiation per unit mass of absorbing material. The units of absorbed dose are
the rad and the gray (Gy).
Administrative dose
The dose that a RSO assigns when dosimetry is inaccurate or has been misused or lost.
Agreement state
Any State with which the Atomic Energy Commission or the NRC has entered into an effective agreement in which
the State assumes many of the NRC’s functions.
Annual limit of intake
The derived limit for the amount of RAM taken into the body of an adult worker by inhalation or ingestion in a year.

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The annual limit of intake is the smaller value of intake of a given radionuclide in a year that would result in a CEDE
of 5 rems (0.05 Sv) or a committed dose equivalent of 50 rems (0.5 Sv) to any organ or tissue.
Army command
An Army force, designated by the Secretary of the Army, performing multiple Army Service Title 10 functions across
multiple disciplines. Command responsibilities are those established by the Secretary. The ACOMs are U.S. Army
Force Command (FORSCOM), TRADOC, and AMC.
Army National Guard facilities
Pertains to those facilities normally employed for the administration and training of Army National Guard units, in any
entire structure or part thereof, including any interest in land, armories, and storage and other use areas.
Army Regulation
A directive that sets forth missions, responsibilities, and policies, and establishes procedures to ensure uniform
compliance with those policies.
Army Reserve facilities
Pertains to those facilities normally employed for the administration and training of Army Reserve units, in any entire
structure or part thereof, including any interest in land, Army Reserve Center, and storage and other use areas.
Army service component command
The ASCC is the Army component of a combatant command.
As low as is reasonably achievable
Making every reasonable effort to maintain exposures to radiation as far below applicable dose limits as is practically
consistent with the purpose for which the activity is undertaken, taking into account the state of technology, the
economics of improvements in relation to benefits to the public health and safety, and other societal and socioeconomic
considerations and in relation to utilization of nuclear energy, RAMs, and ionizing radiation in the public interest.
Background radiation
Radiation from cosmic sources; naturally occurring radioactive material including radon (except as a decay product of
source or special nuclear material, or when workplace radon levels require compliance with 29 CFR 1910.1096); and
global fallout as it exists in the environment from the testing of nuclear explosive devices or from past nuclear
accidents such as Chernobyl that contribute to background radiation. Background radiation does not include radiation
from the source, byproduct, or special nuclear materials that the NRC regulates or from NARM that the Army
regulates.
Becquerel
The SI unit of radioactivity equivalent to one nuclear transformation per second.
Bioassay (radiobioassay) T
The determination of kinds, quantities or concentrations, and, in some cases, the locations of RAM in the human body,
whether by direct measurement (in vivo counting) or by analysis and evaluation of materials excreted or removed from
the human body (in vitro counting).
By-product material
Any RAM (except special nuclear material) yielded in or made radioactive by exposure to the radiation incident to the
process of producing or utilizing special nuclear material.
Committed dose equivalent
The dose equivalent to organs or tissue of reference that will be received from an intake of RAM by an individual
during the 50–year period following the intake.
Committed effective dose equivalent
The sum of the products of the weighting factors applicable to each of the body organs or tissues that are irradiated and
the committed dose equivalent to these organs or tissues.
Commodity, radioactive
See radioactive commodity.

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Condition
The status of personnel and equipment (readiness) as they interact with the operational environment during mission
planning and execution.
Control
Action taken to eliminate hazards or reduce their risk.
Curie
A unit of radioactivity equal to 37 billion becquerels.
Declared pregnant woman
A woman who has voluntarily informed her employer, in writing, of her pregnancy and the estimated date of
conception, for the purpose of radiation protection of the developing fetus.
Decommission
To remove (as a facility) safely from service and reduce residual radioactivity to a level that permits release of the
property for unrestricted use and termination of the NRC license, Army reactor permit, or Army radiation
authorization.
Deep-dose equivalent
Applies to external whole-body exposure and is the dose equivalent at a tissue depth of 1 centimeter (1000 mg/cm2).
Derived air concentration
The concentration of a given radionuclide in air that, if breathed for a working year of 2,000 hours under conditions of
light work (inhalation rate 1.2 cubic meters of air per hour) results in an inhalation of one ALI.
Deviation
A departure from the requirements of this pamphlet.
Dose equivalent
The product of absorbed dose in tissue, quality factor and all other necessary modifying factors at the location of
interest in tissue. The units of dose equivalent are the rem and sievert (Sv).
Effective dose equivalent
The sum of the products of the dose equivalent to the organ or tissue and the weighting factors applicable to each of
the body organs or tissues that are irradiated. The units of dose equivalent are the rem and Sv.
Electromagnetic radiation
Electric and magnetic fields that oscillate at right angles to each other and to their direction of propagation and that
travel at the speed of light in a vacuum (300,000 kilometers per second). Electromagnetic radiation includes gamma
rays, x-rays, ultraviolet radiation, visible light, infrared radiation, RF radiation, and extremely low frequency EMR (see
table 5–3).
Electron volt
A unit of energy equal to 1.6x1019 joule.
Exposure
The frequency and length of time subjected to a hazard.
Extremely low frequency electromagnetic radiation
Electromagnetic radiation with a frequency less than 3 kHz.
Eye dose equivalent
Applies to the external exposure of the lens of the eye and is taken as the dose equivalent at a tissue depth of 0.3
centimeters (300 mg/cm2).
Garrison
The garrison is a table of distribution allowance organization that operates the installation and provides base operations
services to tenant organizations. The garrison normally belongs to the IMCOM.

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Gigahertz
An SI unit prefix indicating a factor of one billion (1x109).
Gray
The SI unit of absorbed dose. One gray is equal to an absorbed dose of 1 joule/kilogram (100 rads).
Hazard
Any real or potential condition that can cause injury, illness, death of personnel, damage to or loss of equipment or
property, or mission degradation.
Hertz
The SI unit of frequency equivalent to one vibration (cycle) per second.
High radiation area
An area, accessible to individuals, in which radiation levels could result in an individual receiving a dose equivalent in
excess of 100 mrem (1 mSv) in 1 hour at 30 centimeters from the radiation source or from any surface that the
radiation penetrates.
Infrared electromagnetic radiation
Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength between 760–780 nm and 1 mm.
Installation
An aggregation of contiguous or near contiguous, common mission-supporting real property holdings under the
jurisdiction of DOD or a state, the District of Columbia, territory, commonwealth, or possession, controlled by and at
which an Army unit or activity (active, USAR, or ARNG) is permanently assigned.
Ionizing radiation
Charged subatomic particles and ionized atoms with kinetic energies greater than 12.4 eV, EMR with photon energies
greater than 12.4 eV, and all free neutrons and other uncharged subatomic particles (except neutrinos and
antineutrinos).
Kilo
SI units prefix indicating a factor of 1000.
Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation (laser)
A laser is a device that produces an intense, coherent, directional beam of light by stimulating electronic or molecular
transitions to higher energy levels. Lasers are classified by the degree of potential hazard (see 21 CFR 1040.10 and
ANSI Z136.1 for comprehensive definitions of laser hazard classes).
a. Class 1 lasers emit at levels that are not hazardous under any viewing or maintenance conditions. They are
exempt from control measures. (However, as a matter of good safety practices avoid intrabeam viewing in case the
laser is mislabeled.)
b. Class 2 lasers (low-power) emit in the visible light portion of the electromagnetic spectrum. They are a potential
eye hazard only for prolonged intrabeam viewing. Eye protection is normally afforded by the aversion response
including the blink reflex.
c. Class 3 (medium-power) lasers emit in the IR, visible, or ultraviolet portions of the electromagnetic spectrum.
They are a hazard for direct intrabeam and specular reflection viewing. Diffuse reflection is not normally a hazard.
(1) Class 3a lasers, even though they emit at Class 3 power levels, have special beam characteristics that make them
eye-safe except when viewed through magnifying optics.
(2) Class 3b lasers are all other Class 3 lasers. Class 3b laser devices are potentially hazardous if the unprotected
eye views the direct or specularly reflected beam, but they normally do not cause hazardous diffuse reflections.
d. Class 4 (high-power) lasers emit in the IR, visible, or ultraviolet portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. They
are hazardous for direct intrabeam exposure and sometimes diffuse reflection exposure to the eyes or skin. They may
also produce fire, material damage, laser generated air contaminants, and hazardous plasma radiation.
Low-level radioactive waste
See radioactive waste, low-level.
Materiel subordinate command
A major subordinate command of the AMC responsible for National Inventory Control Point and National Maintenance
Point functions for assigned items (see AR 725–50).

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Member of the public
Any individual except when that individual is receiving an occupational dose.
Micro
SI units prefix indicating a factor of one one-millionth (1x106).
Military-exempt lasers
Those lasers and laser systems that the FDA has exempted from the provisions of 21 CFR 1040.10 and 21 CFR 1040.
11 and of 21 CFR 1002 (except 21 CFR 1002.20) (exemption no. 76–EL–01 DOD). These laser products are used
exclusively by DOD components and are designed for actual combat or combat training operations or are classified in
the interest of national security.
Milli
SI units prefix indicating a factor of one one-thousandth (0.001).
Naturally occurring or accelerator produced radioactive material
Radioactive material not classified as a by-product, special, or source material; NARM includes naturally occurring
RAM.
Non-ionizing radiation
Electromagnetic radiation with photon energies less than 12.4 eV.
Occupational dose
The dose received by an individual in the course of employment in which the individual’s assigned duties involve
exposure to radiation or to RAM from regulated and unregulated sources of radiation, whether in the possession of the
employer or another person. Occupational dose does not include dose received from background radiation; from any
medical administration the individual has received; from exposure to patients administered RAM and released in
accordance with applicable regulations; from voluntary participation in medical research programs; or as a member of
the public. Workplace exposure to naturally occurring RAM, such as radon, considered background radiation by NRC
may be considered an occupational exposure by OSHA and regulated under 29 CFR 1910.1096.
Optical radiation
See visible light.
Peta
An SI unit prefix indicating a factor of one million billion (1x1015).
Probability
The likelihood that an event will occur.
Qualified expert
A person who, by virtue of training and experience, can provide competent, authoritative guidance on specific aspects
of radiation safety. Being a qualified expert in one aspect of radiation safety does not necessarily mean that a person is
a qualified expert in a different aspect. Forward requests for determination of whether a certain individual is a qualified
expert through command channels to the Army Headquarters (ACOM, ASCC, DRU)/IMCOM RSSO as necessary.
Forward these requests to the Director of Army Safety, DASAF, 9351 Hall Rd, Ft Belvoir, VA 22060, for further
evaluation as necessary.
Quality Factor
The modifying factor (listed in 10 CFR 20.1004) that is used to derive dose equivalent from absorbed dose.
Rad
A unit of absorbed dose. One rad is equal to an absorbed dose of 0.01 joule/kilogram (0.01 gray).
Radiation
For the purposes of this pamphlet, unless otherwise specified, the radiation includes both ionizing and non-ionizing
radiation.
Radiation area
An area, accessible to individuals, in which radiation levels could result in an individual receiving a dose equivalent in

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excess of 0.005 rem (0.05 mSv) in 1 hour at 30 centimeters from the radiation source or from any surface that the
radiation penetrates.
Radiation safety
For the purposes of this pamphlet, a discipline whose objective is the protection of people and the environment from
unnecessary exposure to radiation. Radiation safety is concerned with understanding, evaluating, and controlling the
risks from radiation exposure relative to the benefits derived. Same as “radiation protection.” Health physics has the
same objective, but is a scientific discipline.
Radiation Safety Committee
An advisory committee for the commander/director to assess the adequacy of the command’s RSP. Same as “radiation
control committee” and “radiation protection committee.”
Radiation safety officer
The person that the commander designates, in writing, as the executive agent for the command’s RSP (same as
“radiation protection officer”). These individuals are provided training commensurate with the radiation hazards they
manage. Types of RSOs discussed in this pamphlet include:
a. Garrison RSO. The RSO on the staff of the garrison commander. The garrison RSO normally belongs to the
IMCOM) (For ARNG, the state RSO is considered to be the garrison RSO).
b. Installation RSO. The RSO on the staff of the installation commander for arsenals, depots, and similar areas not
managed by the IMCOM.
c. Mission RSO. The RSO in an “Army Headquarters” activity. The Army Headquarters activity is typically a tenant
organization on an installation (synonymous with tenant activity RSO).
d. Unit RSO. The RSO in an Army unit (typically a brigade, battalion, company, detachment or TDA organization).
Radiation Safety Program
A program to implement the objective of radiation safety. The ARSP includes all aspects of—
a. Measurement and evaluation of radiation and RAM pertaining to the protection of personnel and the environment.
b. Army compliance with Federal and DOD, and Army radiation safety regulations.
c. The Army’s radiation dosimetry; radiation bioassay; radioactive waste disposal; radiation safety training; and
radiation instrument TMDE and calibration programs.
Radioactive commodity
An item of Government property made up in whole or in part of RAM to which a national stock number or part
number is assigned. Examples of Army radioactive commodities include tritium fire control devices, chemical agent
detectors/monitors, lensatic compasses, DU munitions, radioluminescent sights and gauges on vehicles, and moisture
density gauges.
Radioactive waste
Solid, liquid, or gaseous material that contains radionuclides regulated under the Atomic Energy Act, as amended, or is
of sufficient quantity to require an ARA, and is of negligible economic value considering the cost of recovery.
Radioactive waste, low-level
Material the NRC classifies as low-level radioactive waste (see 10 CFR 62.2); waste not classified as high-level
radioactive waste (spent nuclear fuel), as transuranic waste, or as uranium or thorium tailings and waste; material
acceptable for burial in a land disposal facility (see 10 CFR 61).
Radiobioassay
See bioassay.
Radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation
Electromagnetic radiation with frequencies between 3 kHz and 300 GHz.
Radiofrequency controlled environment
Locations where RF exposure may be incurred by persons who are aware of the potential for occupational exposure, by
other cognizant persons, or as the incidental result of transient passage through areas where analysis shows the
exposure levels may be above those shown in DODI 6055.1, but do not exceed those shown in DODI 6055.1. Existing
physical arrangements or areas, such as fences, perimeters, or weather deck(s) of a ship maybe used in establishing a
controlled environment.

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Radiofrequency uncontrolled environments
Locations where RF exposures do not exceed permissible exposure levels in DODI 6055.1. Such locations represent
living quarters, workplaces, or public access areas where personnel would not expect to encounter higher levels of RF
energy.
Radiation Safety Committee recorder
Designee directly responsible for the accuracy and completeness of the RSC minutes. The recorder may designate
someone else to take notes at RSC meetings (for example, an assistant or secretary). The recorder will be the RSO to
help ensure that the minutes meet regulatory requirements.
Rem
A unit of any of the quantities expressed as dose equivalent. The dose equivalent in rems is equal to the absorbed dose
in rads multiplied by the quality factor (1 rem=0.01 sievert).
Residual risk
The levels of risk remaining after controls have been identified, and countermeasures have been selected for hazards
that may result in loss of combat power. Controls are identified and selected until the residual risk is at an acceptable
level or until it cannot be practically reduced any further.
Restricted area
An area, access to which is limited by the licensee for the purpose of protecting individuals against undue risks from
exposure to radiation and radioactive materials. Restricted area does not include areas used as residential quarters, but
separate rooms in a residential building may be set apart as a restricted area.
Risk
A measure of the expected loss from a given hazard or group of hazards; the probability of exposure to the possibility
of injury or loss from a hazard. Risk level is expressed in terms of hazard probability and severity.
Risk assessment
Risk assessment Steps 1 and 2 of the Army’s RM Process, identification and assessment of potential loss in terms of
hazards. An identified hazard is assessed to determine the risk (both the probability and severity) of an incident due to
the presence of the hazard.
a. Hazard severity. An assessment of the expected consequence, defined by the degree of injury or occupational
illness, property damage or effect on the mission that could occur from a hazard. A hazard is coded by an uppercase
Roman numeral according to criteria contained in ATP 5–19.
b. Accident probability. An assessment of the likelihood that, given exposure to a hazard, an accident will result.
Accident probability is coded by an uppercase letter according to criteria contained in ATP 5–19.
Risk acceptance
The decision to accept or not accept the risk(s) associated with an action; made by the commander, leader, or
individual responsible for performing that action and having the appropriate resources to control or eliminate the risk’s
associated hazard.
Risk management integration
The embedding of risk management principles and practices into Army operations, culture, organizations, systems, and
individual behavior.
Severity
The expected consequence of an event (hazardous incident) in terms of degree of injury, property damage, or other
mission impairing factors (loss of combat power and so on) that could occur.
Shallow dose equivalent
Applies to the external exposure of the skin or an extremity and is taken as the dose equivalent at a tissue depth of 0.
007 centimeters (7 mg/cm2) averaged over an area of 1 square centimeter.
Short course
For the purpose of this pamphlet, a course of three weeks duration or less based on the training developers
determination of the precise length of courses.

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Sievert
The SI unit of any of the quantities expressed as dose equivalent. The dose equivalent in sieverts is equal to the
absorbed dose in grays multiplied by the quality factor (1 Sv=100 rem).
Source material
Uranium or thorium, or any combination thereof, in any physical or chemical form or ores that contain by weight onetwentieth of one percent (0.05%) or more of uranium, thorium, or any combination thereof. Source material does not
include special nuclear material.
Special nuclear material
Plutonium, uranium-233, uranium enriched in the isotope 233 or in the isotope 235, or any material artificially enriched
by any of the foregoing.
Tera
An SI unit prefix indicating a factor of one trillion (1x1012).
Total effective dose equivalent
The sum of the deep-dose equivalent (for external exposures) and the CEDE (for internal exposures).
Type classification
A designation the Army uses to indicate acceptability for service use.
Ultraviolet electromagnetic radiation
Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between 100 nm and 380–400 nm.
Unrestricted area
An area, access to which is neither limited nor controlled (for the purposes of ionizing radiation safety).
Very high radiation area
An area, accessible to individuals, in which radiation levels could result in an individual receiving an absorbed dose in
excess of 500 rads (5 Gy) in 1 hour at 1 meter from a radiation source or from any surface that the radiation penetrates.
Visible light
Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between 380–400 nm and 760–780 nm.
Weighting factor
For an organ or tissue, the proportion of the risk of stochastic effects resulting from irradiation of that organ or tissue
to the total risk of stochastic effects when the whole body is irradiated uniformly.
Section III
Special Abbreviations and Terms
ARSP
Army Radiation Safety Program
Bq
Becquerel
CDRR
Central Dosimetry Records Repository
Ci
Curie
CIE
International Commission on Illumination
DCGL
derived concentration guideline

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DDE
deep dose equivalent
dpm
disintegrations per minute
EDE
effective dose equivalent
EMF
electromagnetic field
ERL
exposure reference levels
Gy
Gray
HP
Health physicist
HSA
Historical site assessment
kBq
kilobecquerel
LLEA
local law enforcement agency
MARSSIM
Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual
mCi
milicurie
μCi
microcurie
μm
micrometer
mrem
millirem
mSv
millisievert
NARM
naturally occurring or accelerator produced radioactive materials
PHz
petahertz
RFSO
radiofrequency safety officer
RSP
Radiation Safety Program

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SDE
shallow dose equivalent
Sv
sievert
TBq
terabequerels
THz
terahertz
USPHC
U.S. Army Public Health Command

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UNCLASSIFIED

PIN 083958–000