Training Industrial Personnel in Radioisotope Utilization

Abstract

The General Motors Research Laboratories, in conjunction with the General Motors Institute, has been conducting its “Radioisotopes In Industry” Training Program since May, 1957. This technical training activity encompasses, in an intensive ten-week period, subjects ranging from simple atomic physics to highly technical neutron activation techniques. Subject matter coverage is designed to give the participants a broad understanding of the basic physical principles involved in the measurement and manipulation of radioactivity. The curriculum is based upon the premise that each trainee should acquire sufficient knowledge regarding radio-isotopes to be capable of effectively organizing and conducting a radioisotope program for his organization with a minimum of further assistance. Accordingly, in addition to the classical subjects, the following are covered in detail: Radiation Detection and Instrumentation Safety and Health Physics Procedures Radiochemical and Radiophysical Techniques Laboratory and Equipment Design Radiological Decontamination Industrial Hygiene Involving Radioisotopes Federal and State Regulations Radioisotope Engineering Problems Radiography and Autoradiography Radioactive Waste Disposal Radioisotope Procurement Radiation Shielding Design Radioisotope Application Project Design In order to utilize presentation time to the fullest advantage, all of the course material has been carefully organized and programmed along the lines used in General Motors technical training courses. At the request of the U. S. Atomic Energy Commission, Office of Isotope Development, the training program outline is being prepared in book form for public release. In conjunction with this release, to further promote radioisotope utilization by American industry, the Atomic Energy Commission is currently planning and sponsoring courses involving the industrial application of radioisotopes. These courses will have the same general design and intent as the one just described and will be available to technical people from industry at large.