TM-9-2350-311-34-1
HULL, POWERPLANT, DRIVE CONTROLS, TRACKS, SUSPENSION, AND ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS: HOWITZER, MEDIUM, SELF-PROPELLED, 155MM
TECHNICAL MANUAL; DIRECT SUPPORT AND GENERAL SUPPORT MAINTENANCE MANUAL
SEPTEMBER 1994
TM-9-2350-311-34-1 - Page 3 of 352
TM 9-2350-311-34-1
WARNING
RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL(S) TRITIUM (HYDROGEN-3) GAS
Handle with care. In the event the radioluminous source is broken, cracked, or there is no illumination,
immediately wrap device in plastic bag (item 4, Appx B) and notify the local Radiation Protection Officer
(RPO). Contact the base safety office for the name and telephone number of your local RPO:
LOCAL RPO:
TELEPHONE:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
SAFETY PROCEDURES FOR NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION
(NRC) TRITIUM FIRE CONTROL DEVICES
Purpose: To implement mandatory license requirements for use and maintenance of tritium
radioluminous fire control devices used on howitzers, mortars, tanks, and rifles.
Scope: This procedure is applicable to all personnel working with tritium devices, including unit,
direct support, general support maintenance, and operator’s levels.
Radiological hazard: The beta radiation emitted by tritium presents no external radiation hazard.
However, if taken internally, it can damage soft tissue. If a capsule is broken, the tritium gas will
dissipate into the surrounding air and surfaces near the vicinity of the break may become
contaminated. Tritium can be taken into the body by inhalation, ingestion, or percutaneous (skin)
absorption/injection
Safety precautions:
a. Check for illumination prior to use or service in low light or darkroom. If not illuminated, do not
repair. Wrap the entire device in plastic bag (item 4, Appx B) and notify the local RPO.
b. No eating, drinking, or smoking will be allowed in tritium device work areas.
Emergency procedures: If a tritium source breaks, inform other personnel to vacate the area or
move upwind. If skin contact is made with any area contaminated with tritium, wash immediately
with nonabrasive soap and water. Report the incident to the local RPO. Actions below will be taken
under supervision or direction of the local RPO.
a. Personnel handling the device should wear rubber or latex gloves (item 8, Appx B). Device
must be immediately double wrapped in plastic, sealed, packaged, and evacuated to depot.
Outside package must be identified as “Broken Tritium Device -Do Not Open”. Dispose of used
gloves as radioactive waste, per instructions from local RPO and wash hands well.
b. Personnel who may have handled the broken tritium should report to health clinic for tritium
bioassay. Optimum bioassay sample is at least 4 hours after exposure.
c. Broken tritium sources indoors may result in tritium contamination in the area, such as work
bench or table. The area must be cordoned off, restricted until wipe tests indicate no
contamination.
a
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