A wipe test kit should be assembled containing:
- copy of the wipe test submission form (PDF 123KB)
- filter papers with a diameter no larger than 100 mm (available from any laboratory supplier)
- sealable plastic bags (plus labels if bags cannot be written on clearly)
- disposable gloves
- permanent marker
- small bottle for water or suitable solvent
- pen
- copy of this document.

Procedure
- Update or amend form details.
- Write the Purchase Order Number on the form (no wipe tests can be analysed without a PO number).
- Label a sealable plastic bag with the serial number of the gauge/area being wipe tested.
- Tick the Wipe Sent box on the form and record the date. Dampen a filter paper with water (or other suitable solvent in the presence of high voltages). Avoid folding the filter paper at any stage.
- Wear disposable gloves (or use tongs for housings with high surface dose rates), wipe an area on the surface of the gauge/source around any seals or openings.
- Place the filter paper, unfolded, into the plastic bag and seal it.
- Repeat steps 1 to 5 for each gauge/source.
- Wipe a dampened filter paper on a metallic surface away from gauges/sources and seal this in a plastic bag labelled Control.
- Return all the bags with the completed form to the Radiation Health Unit.
More information
Radiation Health Unit
Phone: 9222 2000
Email: radiation.health@health.wa.gov.au
Visit Radiological Council (external site) for further information on radiation health.