1.1 This practice outlines dosimetric procedures to be followed
with self-contained dry-storage gamma irradiators. For
irradiators used for routine processing, procedures are given to
ensure that product processed will receive absorbed doses
within prescribed limits.
1.2 This practice covers dosimetry in the use of dry-storage
gamma irradiators, namely self-contained dry-storage 137Cs or
60Co irradiators (shielded freestanding irradiators). It does not
cover underwater pool sources, panoramic gamma sources, nor
does it cover self-contained bremsstrahlung X-ray units.
1.3 The absorbed-dose range for the use of the dry-storage
self-contained gamma irradiators covered by this practice is
typically 1 to 105 Gy, depending on the application. The
absorbed-dose rate range typically is from 10–2 to 103 Gy/min.
1.4 For irradiators supplied for specific applications, specific
ISO/ASTM or ASTM practices and guides provide
dosimetric procedures for the application. For procedures
specific to dosimetry in blood irradiation, see ISO/ASTM
Practice 51939. For procedures specific to dosimetry in radiation
research on food and agricultural products, see ISO/ASTM
Practice 51900. For procedures specific to radiation hardness
testing, see ASTM Practice E1249. For procedures specific to
the dosimetry in the irradiation of insects for sterile release
programs, see ISO/ASTM Guide 51940. In those cases covered
by ISO/ASTM 51939, 51900, 51940, or ASTM E1249, those
standards take precedence.
1.5 This document is one of a set of standards that provides
recommendations for properly implementing and utilizing
dosimetry in radiation processing. It is intended to be read in
conjunction with ASTM E2628, “Practice for Dosimetry in
Radiation Processing”.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate
safety and health practices and determine the applicability
of regulatory limitations prior to use.