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Home > Case Studies > Case Two Reduction of radiation dose during maintenance of nuclear plant The Problem Regulations require critical maintenance to be supervised by a second operator at all times, but this means that both men receive radiation. The environment is very cramped, and it is not possible to deploy conventional CCTV cameras to monitor this work, even if it were, the time involved in this deployment means additional exposure to radiation. The Solution A specially-developed system using a miniature CCTV camera worn on a head harness by the operator (this can be worn in a pressurised suit if necessary). The signals are transmitted by a lightweight low power radio transmitter worn in a specially designed vest under the protective clothing. The material of this vest is a high-tech fibre designed to avoid perspiration and subsequent discomfort. A two-way audio link is also provided, and this allows the supervising operator to view the complete process from the same viewpoint as the primary operator, with normal conversation between the two, whilst permitting the supervisor to be located in a low or zero-dose area. The high-quality colour pictures are displayed on a video monitor, and both pictures and audio are recorded by the equipment for archiving if required. The complete system is packed in an aluminium case the size of an overnight bag, and is completely self-contained, requiring only local electrical power at the supervisor's location. Deployment of this equipment has halved the overall dose rates for this maintenance task. |
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