DPT 8.0
Radiation Detection
•Instrumentation
–G.M. Survey Meter
–Dose Rate Meter - Ionization                                 Chamber
–Alpha Meter
–Neutron Meter
•Personal Dosimeters
–Film Badge
–Thermoluminescent Dosimeter
–Quartz Fiber Dosimeter
–Electronic Instantaneous Read Out Dosimeter
RADIATION DETECTION

Unfortunately our body senses cannot detect radiation.  We cannot see, smell, taste, feel, or hear radiation, but we have very good instrumentation to detect it.  Radiation monitoring instruments detect the presence of radiation, usually by collecting charged particles (ions).  The radiation measured is usually expressed as exposure per unit time, using various units of measure, including mrads/hr (or rads/hr), and counts per minute (CPM).  The most commonly used instruments to detect the presence of radiation include:

1.  Geiger Mueller Survey Meter or Geiger Counter.  The Geiger-Mueller (GM) survey meter will detect low levels of gamma and most beta radiation.  The instrument typically has a capability to distinguish between gamma and beta radiation.  This instrument is used to measure background radiation levels and to quickly evaluate potentially contaminated victims.  If a greater level of radiation emission is anticipated, a higher range instrument  should be used.  At high levels, the GM meter will often display incorrect (low or off-scale) readings.

2.  Ionization Chamber Survey Meter.  When properly configured, ionization chamber survey meters measure beta and gamma radiation.  The meters are not used for measuring low levels of contamination.