A Practical Approach to the Radiochemical Analysis of Environmental Samples for the Next Millennium

摘要

The factors affecting a working radiochemical laboratory have changed significantly during the last few years. With the introduction of more powerful computers and very sensitive detectors, nucleonic equipment has become increasingly more sophisticated. Conversely there have been few changes in the established radiochemical methods used to prepare counting sources during the same period. There is increased economic pressure to do 'more with less' and to obtain lower limits of detection. There is a requirement to demonstrate to customers the quality of the analysis through third part accreditation. Compliance with legislation covering safety and environmental issues also restricts some activities which were previously undertaken. To meet all of these requirements and to continue to deliver a high quality service, it is essential to optimise all of the available resources. This includes improved training procedures, prioritisation of work, usage of equipment and effective quality control procedures. A practical approach which has been shown to meet the demands of the customer and the constraints imposed upon the laboratory has been implemented at the Veterinary Laboratories Agency. The process by which this was done, the options available and some of the problems encountered are discussed in this paper.