RadNet

RadNet Sampling and Analyses Schedules

Under normal conditions, RadNet air monitors operate continuously and samples of air, precipitation and drinking water are analyzed on a routine schedule. In a radiological emergency, EPA can send RadNet portable deployableHelpdeployableIn the RadNet system, portable monitors that can be sent (deployed) quickly to a location where they are needed. monitors to any U.S. location and increase sampling and analyses frequency.

Routine Sampling

Medium

Sampling Frequency

Testing Frequency

Air Filters

Continuous (real time) Continuous (real time)

Precipitation

As rainfall, snow or sleet occurs Monthly analysis of a composite sample

Drinking Water

Quarterly Quarterly


Routine Sample Analyses

Medium

Analyses

Air Filters

Individual Samples

Annual Composite Samples

  • Gamma analysis is performed on all annual composite samples.
  • Isotopic plutonium (Pu) and uranium (U) analyses are performed on composite samples from one-fourth of the stations on a four-year rotating schedule.

Precipitation

Monthly Composite Samples

Drinking Water

Individual Samples

  • Tritium (H-3) analysis is performed on each quarterly sample received. 
  • Iodine-131 (I-131) analyses are performed on one sample per station per year.

Composite Samples

RadNet sampling and analysis are particularly useful when an event such as an explosion or fire sends significant levels of radionuclides into the air. Results of real-time data acquisition and subsequent sample analysis can provide critical information on the identity and concentration of radionuclides in air, precipitation and drinking water. Data from RadNet are useful in dose assessments, as health physicists estimate the immediate and long-term environmental and public health effects.

Learn how RadNet was used during and after Chernobyl, Fukushima and other radiological incidents on the Historical Radiological Event Monitoring page and in the report, Historical Uses of RadNet Data (PDF) (36 pp, 564.16 K, About PDF)