This International Standard is applicable to a portable or transportable photon spectrometry assembly using a high purity germanium (HPGe) detector to survey, in situ, generally at 1 m above ground level, areas in the environment for discrete radionuclides. Such equipment is used to make rapid assessments of activity levels and corresponding free air exposure rates from photon emitting radionuclides. Such measurements may be used to develop guidance for subsequent follow-up action, for example including radiological assessments, sampling and monitoring programmes. (This standard does not apply to mobile measurement systems that are covered by a separate standard. See IEC 62438.)
This standard specifies for such an assembly the general characteristics and test methods for evaluating radiation, electrical, mechanical, safety and environmental characteristics specific to the applications described above. Advice is also provided in annexes as to the calibration, appropriate use and interpretation of the system for in situ measurements.
An in situ spectrometry system is a combination of instruments or assemblies designed to measure, in situ, the fluence of gamma-rays incident on the detector, in order to rapidly survey areas for discrete radionuclides present in the soil or air, either natural or manmade.
The purpose of this standard is to specify the performance characteristics of assemblies intended for the determination of surface soil activity.
Accordingly, this standard
a) specifies the functions and performance characteristics of measuring assemblies; and
b) specifies the methods of testing compliance against the requirements of this standard.
