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| NORM is an acronym for naturally occurring radioactive material which is radioactive elements found in the environment. These are long lived radioisotopes such as Uranium, Thorium, Potassium and any of their radioactive decay products, such as Radium and Radon. They are elements which have always been present in the earth's crust and within the tissues of all living beings, plant and animal.
Although the concentration of NORM in most natural substances is quite low, higher concentrations may be found as a result of industrial practices. For example, calcium scale precipitated from oil recovery brine may contain the radioisotope Radium-226 at higher concentrations than the water source itself. The radium originally was found in minute amounts suspended within the oil and rock formations where the oil was found. Over time, these minute concentrations could precipitate out onto scale in pipes and vessels and in much higher concentrations. The processing of raw materials in many resource-based industries may increase the concentration of radioactive elements in those materials, to levels at which special precautions are needed for the handling, storing transporting and disposal of materials, byproducts, end-products or process equipment.
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| Part of the problem with NORM is that it is a relatively new concept which very few people are familiar with. An effective NORM management program must include training of personnel on both the risks inherent with NORM and how to manage it. Our training services offers a NORM course which can be scaled to fit the needs of the client. Topics covered in the course include the origin and properties of NORM; detection of NORM; a review of the guidelines applicable to NORM and instruction in radiation safety. |
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The first step in managing NORM is its detection. We offer a broad array of radiation detection equipment for either sale or rent. Some companies, however, do not feel they have personnel qualified to perform a survey for NORM properly. Experienced personnel are available from Stuart Hunt & Associates to perform NORM surveys of client's facilities or lands. Our personnel are trained in the use of a variety of radiation detection equipment and are knowledgeable about the issue of surrounding NORM. A NORM survey performed by Stuart Hunt & Associates will include a gamma-ray survey of all equipment - indicating areas found to contain higher than normal radiation levels; and the taking of samples for analysis to determine the concentration of NORM, if necessary.
In order to make the appropriate decisions regarding NORM, it is vital that the amount of contamination is known. Our low-level laboratory has been outfitted with the latest in digital gamma-ray spectroscopy allowing us to accurately measure the concentrations of NORM present in a sample. Samples submitted to our laboratory are prepared into counting vials, heat sealed and placed in temporary storage to allow the sample to reach an equilibrium between the long-lived radioactive parents and it's short-lived daughter products. After a minimum of 30 days, the sample is then counted using the extra-low background 28% hyperpure germanium detector. Results are delivered in an easy to read format which helps you formulate a strategy to deal with the NORM problem. |
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| Developing a strategy for managing NORM can be a daunting task, especially when there are no regulations regarding its handling. Our experience in the field of radiation protection and transportation of radioactive materials can assist you in making the right choices on how to handle NORM. Our primary goal in radiation protection has always been the safe management of radioactive material and we approach NORM in the same manner. This results in our clients receiving advice which is directed at providing the safest handling of the material, while at the same time minimizing the cost. Whether it is a transportation issue, a radiation protection issue or understanding the guidelines regarding NORM, our staff can provide knowledgeable assistance to you so that you can make reasonable and informed decisions. |
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