BETA RADIATION PROTECTION CONSIDERATIONS IN THE MINING AND MILLING OF HIGH GRADE URANIUM ORE.

Several conclusions are apparent. First, the beta dose from immersion in airborne ore dust is inconsequential compared to other potential sources of beta exposure. Second, while the beta doses are likely to be very small for ore grades in the order of 1% U//3O//8, or less, it is appropriate to ensure that skin dose from beta exposure to certain designated worker categories, such as yellowcake operators or field mechanics, be maintained at suitably low levels. Finally, although not considered explicitly in this paper, protection of the eyes from beta radiation is most important as energy is deposited primarily in the surface area (about a 30 um depth) and could pose a danger to the lens of the eye.