7-11 July 2019
EV62 - PEP T2: Where Did This Come From? Lessons Learned from High-Routine Bioassay Investigations (Rosenberg)Orange B 12:15 - 14:15 |
| This PEP class provides actual case studies of high routine bioassay measurements addressing the investigation process, resolution, and lessons learned from each. The considerations made during these investigations could be of benefit to other sites that run internal dosimetry programs. High routine bioassay results can come from several sources, including false positive results, laboratory errors, interference from non-occupational sources, and previous occupational intakes, as well as new intakes. It is incumbent upon the site performing a high bioassay result investigation to thoroughly address all possibilities before classifying a high routine as a new intake. The presenter has encountered all of the foregoing issues in the course of investigating high routine bioassay measurements at the US Department of Energy Hanford Site. The important lessons learned include, 1) have good measurement verification protocols, 2) confirm intakes by more than one bioassay measurement, 3) conduct interviews with workers concerning their specific circumstances and recollections, 4) have good retrievable site records for work history reviews, 5) exercise good professional judgment in putting the pieces together to form a conclusion, and 6) clearly communicate the conclusions to the worker, the employer, and the regulatory agency. |
