A Surface Contaminated Object (SCO) is a solid item that does not qualify as radioactive material itself, but has radioactive material present on its surfaces. SCOs are categorized into two groups based on their levels of surface contamination. Understanding these categories is crucial for compliance with safety regulations regarding radioactive materials.
The term Surface Contaminated Object is primarily used in the context of nuclear regulation and safety. It is relevant in areas such as environmental law, health and safety regulations, and transportation of hazardous materials. Legal professionals may encounter this term when dealing with compliance issues related to the handling, packaging, and transportation of radioactive materials. Users can manage related legal documentation using templates provided by US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A metal tool used in a nuclear facility that has slight contamination on its surface may be classified as SCO-I if it meets the specified contamination limits.
Example 2: A storage container that exceeds the contamination limits of SCO-I but remains within the limits for SCO-II could be marked accordingly for safe handling and transport. (hypothetical example)
Key regulations governing Surface Contaminated Objects are outlined in Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 71. This part addresses the packaging and transportation of radioactive materials, including the definitions and limits for SCOs.
| Term | Description | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Radioactive Material | Material that emits radiation. | SCOs are not classified as radioactive material themselves. |
| Hazardous Waste | Waste that poses a risk to health or the environment. | SCOs specifically refer to contamination on surfaces, while hazardous waste encompasses broader categories of dangerous materials. |
If you encounter a Surface Contaminated Object, ensure that you understand the contamination limits and handling requirements. It may be beneficial to consult with a professional who specializes in nuclear regulations. Additionally, you can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you manage the related legal documentation effectively.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Classification | SCO-I and SCO-II |
| Contamination Limits for SCO-I | 4 Bq for beta/gamma emitters; 0.4 Bq for other alpha emitters |
| Contamination Limits for SCO-II | 400 Bq for beta/gamma emitters; 40 Bq for other alpha emitters |
SCO-I has lower contamination limits than SCO-II, which allows for higher levels of contamination.