Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.441 (Radiation level limitations and exclusive use provisions) require?
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According to 49 CFR 173.441, the requirements for Class 7 (radioactive) materials packages and shipments are as follows:
Standard Packages (Non-Exclusive Use):
* Under normal conditions of transportation, each package must be designed and prepared so that the radiation level does not exceed 2 mSv/hour (200 mrem/hour) at any point on its external surface.
* The transport index for a standard package must not exceed 10.
* For non-exclusive use shipments, the sum of the transport indices on a single conveyance cannot exceed 50 (except for cargo aircraft only or seagoing vessels).
Exclusive Use Shipments (Packages exceeding standard limits):
* Any package exceeding the standard radiation level limits must be transported by exclusive use shipment.
* Package Surface Limit: The radiation level on the external surface of the package cannot exceed 2 mSv/h (200 mrem/h), *unless* the shipment is in a closed transport vehicle, the package is securely fixed in position during transport, and there are no loading or unloading operations between the start and end of transport. If these conditions are met, the package surface limit is 10 mSv/h (1000 mrem/h).
* Outer Vehicle Surface Limit: The radiation level cannot exceed 2 mSv/h (200 mrem/h) at any point on the outer surfaces of the vehicle (including the top, underside, and vertical planes/upper surfaces for flat-bed vehicles).
* 2-Meter Distance Limit: The radiation level cannot exceed 0.1 mSv/h (10 mrem/h) at any point 2 meters (6.6 feet) from the outer lateral surfaces of the vehicle (excluding the top and underside).
* Occupied Spaces Limit: The radiation level cannot exceed 0.02 mSv/h (2 mrem/h) in any normally occupied space. However, this limit does not apply to carriers if they operate under a State or federally regulated radiation protection program and the personnel in those spaces wear radiation dosimetry devices.
* Sum of Transport Indices: For exclusive use shipments, there is no limit on the sum of the transport indices aboard a single conveyance, provided the vehicle limits, occupied space limits, and written instructions are met.
* Written Instructions: The offeror must provide the carrier with specific written instructions for maintaining exclusive use shipment controls. These instructions must be included with the shipping papers and must be sufficient to prevent unnecessary delays, increased radiation levels, or increased exposures to workers and the public.
* Aircraft Prohibition: Packages exceeding the maximum surface radiation level or transport index prescribed for standard packages may not be transported by aircraft.