SECTION 8: Transporting and Shipping Radioactive Materials

• Transfers Within the University
• Transfers between Princeton University and Other Institutions

Transfers within the University (top)

Whenever radioactive material is moved from a laboratory to any other facility, even to adjacent buildings, package it and move it in a way that will avoid spilling the material and unnecessary exposure to anyone. Take the following steps:

1. Contact Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) in advance, if the material is being moved along or across any public street. Under some circumstances, the transportation of radioactive materials across campus must comply with U. S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulations. Normally it will be easy to comply with USDOT requirements. EHS will advise you on how to comply.

2. Surround any container of radioactive liquid with sufficient absorbent material to absorb at least twice the volume of liquid. Use materials such as vermiculite, paper towels, or absorbent padding.

3. Provide adequate shielding.

4. Label the inner container of radioactive materials with a Radioactive Materials label. Label the outer package with the names and addresses of the labs that the package is coming from and going to.

Transfers between Princeton University and Other Institutions (top)

Do not ship or transport radioactive materials to another institution without contacting EHS in advance. In order to transfer and ship radioactive materials properly, take the following steps:

1. Contact EHS well in advance of the planned shipment date. EHS will contact the other institution to obtain a copy of its license and to make arrangements with the other institution for receipt of the package and will advise the Authorized User and lab personnel about packaging and shipping requirements. You can go directly to the planned shipment of radioactive or other hazardous materials form.

2. Plan to use a commercial carrier such as a Federal Express to ship radioactive materials. Do not use a private vehicle to transport radioactive materials because the transportation regulations are complex and because any person transporting hazardous materials must receive specialized training.