Question 130: 10 CFR 20.1603 (a), Footnote 2, exempts a
nuclear power plant from the requirements of �.1603
unless a non-self-shielded irradiator is used at the
reactor. (a) If the source used for the calibration of
high-radiation instruments is non-self-shielded, and the
absorbed dose at 1 meter distance could exceed 500 rads in
1 hour, is the source an irradiator? b) Do the provisions
of �.1603 (a) apply?
Answer: (a) No. An "irradiator," as the term is used in
10 CFR 20.1603, uses gamma radiation to irradiate products
to change their characteristics in some way (55 FR 50008,
12/4/90, Licenses and Radiation Safety Requirements for
Large Irradiators, proposed 10 CFR Part 36). A radioactive
source used for calibrating radiation survey instruments is
not an "irradiator."
b) No. However, the provisions of 10 CFR 20.1602 would
apply. (Reference: 10 CFR 20.1603).