Rapid HPGe well detector gamma bioassay of 137Cs, 60Co, and 192Ir method

Highlights: • Quantifies internal radionuclide contamination by Cs-137, Co-60, or Ir-192 following a radiological emergency. • The analytical method is tailored to meet the needs of a radiological emergency response. • Validation data dose ranges correspond with Clinical Decision Guide values from National Council of Radiation Protection 161. • Method applies general approach for efficiency calibration so method may be applied to more radionuclides of interest. CDC designed a rapid HPGe Bioassay Method for ¹³⁷Cs, ⁶⁰Co, and ¹⁹²Ir that is suitable for a public health response to a radiological incident where people may ingest or inhale radionuclides. The method uses a short count time, small sample volume, and a large volume detector and well size. It measures a patient's urine sample collected post-incident. The levels of concern are directly related to the Clinical Decision Guide levels recommended in the National Council of Radiation Protection 161.