Evaluation of Generic 3X Upper Bound Factor Used in Reconstructing External Gamma Doses to Military Participants at Atmospheric Nuclear Weapons Tests

Abstract

Abstract : This report discusses the adequacy of a generic 3X upper bound factor used by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Nuclear Test Personnel Review in reconstructing external personnel gamma doses. Comparisons are performed between reconstructed doses with relevant film badge readings in evaluating the adequacy of applying a 3x upper bound factor to reconstructed mean doses or point estimates of doses with no uncertainty. The use of the 3X upper bound factor was usually found adequate in cases of land exposure in either the Nevada Test Site or Pacific Proving Ground. In the case of shipboard exposures in the Pacific Proving Ground, less adequacy was noted, and further investigation was recommended. Finally, a recommendation was made that doses to unbadged shipboard personnel should be assigned on the basis of badge readings for other participants on that ship, rather than a reconstructed dose.