Permanent Radiation Shielding

Permanent radiation shielding and temporary radiation shielding are distinctions generally reserved for nuclear power plants.  Permanent radiation shielding is designed to provide dose reduction for the lifetime of the plant.  As a permanent installation, it is technically part of the plant and subject to the conditions and requirements of the plant’s operating license from the federal regulatory agency.  This means the shielding is subjected to meeting strict criteria that ensures plant health and safety.  Selection of materials, coatings, fasteners, installation, and fabrication methods are critical.  In addition, the shielding must undergo a formal engineering evaluation to ensure structural integrity if subjected to a seismic event.

Successful permanent radiation shielding projects require collaboration with several groups within a nuclear power facility including Radiation Protection, Engineering, Project Management, Craft (Installers), Maintenance, Operations, and sometimes Security.  The project is successful when the desired dose reduction is achieved, installation is performed safely and on-schedule, and the structure does not inhibit any work activities.  NPO has a long history of successful permanent radiation shielding projects at dozens of nuclear power plants.