Radioactive contamination control programmes in radioactive installations of biological research

Radioactive compounds are nowadays widely used in biological research. There is a great quantity of analytic radioisotopic techniques since they yield evident advantages like specificity, versatility and sensitivity in comparison with non radioactive protocols. Nevertheless, it is obvious that manipulation of radioactive unsealed sources may generate risks for exposed workers. The aim of our work has been to evaluate the probability and incidence of several contamination types that can occur. In order to achieve this purpose, we have make an exhaustive analysis of the most common radioisotopic techniques used in our research centers. Also, we have taken into account physical characteristics and radiotoxicity of the radioisotopes used in such techniques. The main factors that we have considered in relation to the probability and incidence of possible contamination are: maximum activity used per assay (assays carry out 'in vivo' or 'in vitro'), physicochemical characteristics of radioactive compounds used, and of his main and residual compounds; technical complexity (manipulation type and equipment needed). This information has been quite useful to set up the contamination control program that we expose below. (author)