Guide to performing a suitable wipe test

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

1. Update or amend form details.
2. Write the Purchase Order Number on the form (no wipe tests can be analysed without a PO number).
3. Label a sealable plastic bag with the serial number of the gauge/area being wipe tested.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. Place the filter paper, unfolded, into the plastic bag and seal it.
7. Repeat steps 1 to 5 for each gauge/source.
8. Wipe a dampened filter paper on a metallic surface away from gauges/sources and seal this in a plastic bag labelled Control.
9. 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.