Case Study
GlaxoSmithKline
“I am very grateful to Aurora for their professional support and advice. Their team advised us on all radiological aspects of this project. Before the project started they conducted a radiological survey, prepared risk assessments and method statements and supported our contractors by providing training and guidance on regulatory requirements.”
The Background
The Building 2 radiochemistry laboratories at GSK Stevenage use compounds which incorporate H-3 and C-14 for radiolabelling. As part of laboratory upgrade works the boxes which control the flow of air from fume cupboards through to the roof stack were replaced. The boxes contain a controllable flap which changes flow rate or stops flow and an electronic control system. The flap and inner surfaces of the boxes were contaminated with loose radioactive materials. The boxes were being replaced by Airtech Premier Ltd under supervision by Aurora and GSK site staff.
The Challenges
- User constraints to get the laboratory upgrade work finished on time to continue vital research work and operations
- Radiological survey of the system for risk assessment and waste planning
- Health and safety challenge, work at height, containment tents, loose surface contamination
- Some boxes in the corridor not in the laboratory
- Waste container planning
The Tasks
- Risk Assessment based on survey
- Planning the removal, numbering, monitoring and packaging of each control box.
- Removal.
- Waste inventory.
- Radiation safety training and HSE registration for Airtech.
- Environmental monitoring including air sampling.
The Results
Through extensive planning and co-operation between GSK, Airtech and Aurora the upgrade works were completed safely and on time with the radioactive waste assessed and disposed by off-site incineration under the GSK Environmental Permit.
"I am very grateful to Aurora for their professional support and advice. Their team advised us on all radiological aspects of this project. Before the project started they conducted a radiological survey, prepared risk assessments and method statements and supported our contractors by providing training and guidance on regulatory requirements. The subsequent engineering works were carried out safely and successfully, with no significant contamination events. The work was completed on time and the impact on surrounding areas was minimised. Aurora also assisted with sentencing and disposal of radioactive waste from the project. Well done!”
Dr Karl Cable
Environmental Health and Safety Service • GlaxoSmithKline Stevenage
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