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24 May 2012

Answer to Question #399 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Radiation Effects — Effects by Radionuclides

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

We have an old container of thorium nitrate in a storage area. We measured 0.3 millirem/hour about three inches from the container. We have employees in the storage area 365 days per year. Are there any significant risks to our employees? Where can I get literature that may help explain the risks associated with this level of radiation?

The first part of the question involves the assessment of health protection and associated liability, therefore I should not venture to provide a specific answer. To do so would require a more detailed evaluation of material, container, concentration, and storage parameters.

This said, a quick "warm and fuzzy" answer would be that there is likely to be little, if any, external radiation exposure hazard from a properly stored small container of ThNO₃. The potential for internal exposure could be significant, however, if the material were to be accidentally inhaled or ingested. A few places on the Web to begin finding information associated with radiation exposure issues are:

Robert L. Coleman
Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Answer posted on 25 September 2000. The information and material posted on this website is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Website. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.