Animal Experimentation and Radioactive Materials: What You Should Know 

The use of radioactive materials in experimental animals introduces a spectrum of safety challenges and regulatory obligations, beginning with authorization and ending with waste disposal. See section 23 of the Radiation Safety Handbook (also available on our web site) for complete information. The following list highlights some of the important aspects of such work. 

• Investigators who administer radioactive materials to animals in CEAR facilities, or who house animals containing radioactive materials in CEAR facilities, must complete the Protocol for Radioactive Materials in Experimental Animals form. ORS provides the form. Submit it not later than 2 weeks prior to administration of radioactive materials to animals.
• Animal carcasses containing radioactive material in any form or amount are considered to be radioactive waste and must be processed through the radioactive waste program. Do not put them into CEAR freezers; incineration is prohibited unless specifically authorized by ORS. Separate out any paper, bedding, plastic and other non-animal materials. Double-bag and freeze carcasses in small batches. Fill out a radioactive waste card and call ORS for pickup.
• Contaminated animal bedding is considered to be a mixed radioactive/biological waste. Bag it securely, attach a waste card, and call ORS for pickup. Mixing bedding with lime can reduce bacterial growth and odor.
• If you house such animals in CEAR, you are responsible for labeling the cages to indicate the presence of radioactive material, packaging contaminated litter, keeping written waste activity records, and cleaning any contamination on cages, equipment, or facilities.
• Be aware of the sources of, and prevent, unnecessary exposures. Sources of exposure include the stock radioactive materials themselves, accidents during administration, the excreta, and contamination. These potentially may affect CEAR personnel as well as you and your colleagues.
• Notify ORS at the conclusion of the experiment so we can pick up the waste and survey the facility.

Security of Radioactive Materials 

The potential for harm from willful misuse or accidental loss of radioactive materials is a serious concern that each radiation worker must address. Theft or loss of radioactive materials may result in intense scrutiny of your security and record-keeping practices. Securing radioactive materials against unauthorized removal from their place of storage is required. Keep your stock materials in a designated, secure storage location. Consider establishing a check-out procedure whereby materials are signed in and out. Perform periodic inventories, matching inventory forms to stock vials. Use the "line-of-sight" rule; if you are working where you cannot see your stock material, put it away. Keep doors closed and lock your lab when unoccupied. Finally, report any theft or loss of radioactive materials to ORS immediately. After hours, call University Police at 456 and ask them to contact Research Safety.