The 4Q07 dosimetry badge reading results indicated an exposure of 261,067 mrem shallow dose, beta, probably from P-32. It is believed that this reading may be a result of leaving a contaminated glove in a lab coat pocket following work, and then placing the badge in the same pocket, and the two remaining together for a period of over a month. The worker has been withdrawn from all radiation work. An investigation is in progress.
02/06/08 - Radiation Safety Officer [REDACTED] of OHSU (License #OR-90731) notified [OREGON PUBLIC HEALTH] at the Agency that while reviewing dosimetry reports from Global Dosimetry Co., he discovered one user who had a 261,067 mrem shallow dose. [OREGON PUBLIC HEALTH] contacted [RSO] regarding the high dose and found that the dose was reported on a whole body badge for 4Q07. Further, it was found through this discussion that the isotope was P-32 and the user told [RSO] that he placed a contaminated glove in the pocket of his lab jacket and later placed his whole-body badge in the pocket with the glove. This was done approximately after 1 month into 4Q07 and the dosimetry and jacket were not used for 2 months. Unknown dose to the user during the first month from the glove. The glove was checked when found in the pocket and found to have 1100cpm (3400dpm) at that time. The user has been suspended from using radioactive material until an investigation (both OHSU and State Radiation Protection Services) can be performed and results determined. [RSO] is writing a preliminary report to be sent to [OREGON PUBLIC HEALTH] and [OREGON PUBLIC HEALTH] this afternoon or tomorrow.
02/06/08: SA-300 consulted, potential dose exceeds 250
rem shallow dose level. Notified NRC Operations Center by phone per significant reportable event requirements at 1458 EST (11:58 PST) and received Event number 43966. Relayed preliminary information as acquired so far, will follow with fax of this information as well. Licensee to issue preliminary investigative report sometime this afternoon or early tomorrow.