Radiological Control

The Radiological Control Program is a Navy research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) initiative focused on advancing radiation detection, indication, and computation (RADIAC) technologies. The program's primary goal is to ensure the safety of personnel, maintain operational continuity in radiological contingencies, and protect the environment across all Navy, Coast Guard, and Military Sealift Command vessels, as well as shore installations. These objectives are mandated by Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 20 (10 CFR 20), which requires the use of RADIAC instruments for occupational safety and health (OSH) for workers exposed to radioactive materials.

RADIAC development is the core project under this program element, with specific objectives to replace aging, unreliable, and costly radiation monitoring equipment with modern, multifunctional devices. The program seeks to develop instruments that are highly reliable, easier to calibrate and maintain, lightweight, and capable of automatic calibration to reduce lifecycle costs. These improvements support both OSH-related missions, such as Naval Nuclear Propulsion, Nuclear Weapons, Medical, and Radiological Affairs Support, and non-OSH missions, including Radiological Defense, Consequence Management, Training, Technical calibration, and Radiological Search for WMD interdiction.

Primary dosimetry efforts focus on developing and evaluating dosimeters that monitor individual exposure to ionizing radiation, in compliance with 10 CFR 20.1502. The current primary device, a passive Thermo Luminescence Dosimeter, is nearing the end of its service life and must be replaced by 2030. Research is ongoing into newer technologies, such as Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) and passive-active systems that provide real-time dose readings. The Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division (NSWCCD) is conducting extensive testing and evaluation, including neutron correction factor determination and compatibility with existing Neutron Area Monitors.

Secondary dosimetry addresses the need to monitor radiation doses to extremities (hands, feet, eyes), which is critical in medical and industrial applications. The legacy system is being replaced due to vendor support issues, with alternatives under evaluation. These new devices aim to provide accurate, real-time exposure readings and improved durability for operational environments. The replacement electronic personal dosimeters (EPDs) will be utilized by the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program, Radiological Affairs Support Office, Bureau of Medicine and Surgery, and Strategic Systems Programs.

Laboratory test equipment supports the evaluation and calibration of radiation detectors and dosimetry devices. NSWCCD and the Naval Dosimetry Center are the primary users, employing beta and neutron irradiators to assess system performance and analyze accident dosimeters. Recent efforts include procurement, installation, and calibration of new neutron irradiators and conducting low background analyses to ensure accurate measurements in laboratory settings.

Radiological detection system training devices are being developed to simulate the detection of various radiation types (alpha, beta, gamma, neutron, and low energy X-rays) for training purposes, without the use of actual radioactive sources. This approach enhances safety and cost-effectiveness in training, supporting joint interoperability among U.S. services and NATO allies. NSWCCD is leading the development and testing of prototype simulators for alpha and neutron probes, with plans to transition these devices to procurement upon successful evaluation.

Additional objectives include the battery powered air particle sampler (BPAPS) and surface contamination monitor (SCM). The BPAPS project aims to replace the heavy, legacy sampler with lighter, more user-friendly alternatives, supporting radioiodine sampling for Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. The SCM initiative is focused on developing devices to quickly survey large areas for alpha-beta contamination, required for regulatory compliance prior to area release. Both projects involve market research, testing, and certification to ensure suitability for operational use. The Radiological Control Program emphasizes leveraging commercial-off-the-shelf technologies, fixed-price contracts, and continuous technology refresh to improve operational capabilities and reduce total ownership costs.