This standard defines, for various types ofinstrumentation, the essential performanceparameters, and general placement for monitoringthe release of radionuclides associated witha postulated serious accident at a reactor facility.This standard does not specify which ofthe instruments or systems are required nordoes it consider the number or specific locationsof such instruments. This standard alsodoes not address single failure criteria associatedwith nuclear safety instrumentation. Forthe purpose of this standard, the predominantconsideration in the assessment of radiationemergencies is the measurement of fissionproducts promptly enough to permit timelyemergency decisions to be made.Where instruments utilized for routine operationsfulfill the criteria herein, they neednot be duplicated in order to have separateemergency instrumentation. Dual purpose instrumentationmust meet the requirements ofthis standard.1.1 Introduction. Regulatory agencies requirethe development of comprehensive emergencyplans for nuclear reactor facilities. Such plansmust include the provision of adequate radiologicalinstrumentation to detect and quantify accidental releases of radioactivity from these facilities.This standard presents performance criteria for instrumentation for detecting and quantifying such release of radioactive materials. The criteria are based on estimates of the quantity and characterization of radio-active material that could escape as a result of a postulated accident at a reactor facility.Throughout these criteria, three verbs have been used to indicate the degree of rigor intended by the specific criterion. The word shall is used to denote a requirement, the word should to denote a recommendation, and the word may to denote permission,neither a requirement nor a recommendation.It is important that instruments, systems, orindividual components intended for emergencyapplication be:(1) Qualified for use under extreme conditions(2) Preoperationally tested over the entirerange of operation(3) Periodically checked and calibrated accordingto an appropriate calibration programThe criteria herein apply only to instrumentationinstalled or located at the reactorfacility and intended for use by facility personnelin the conduct of emergency operations.Instrument selection will of necessity be determinedon a case by case basis considering individualfacility emergency plans and sitespecific parameters. These plans involve severalelements including measurement of meteorologicalparameters, establishment of communications,arrangement for off-site worksupport personnel, identification of capabilities,capability of detecting emergency conditions,and quantifying releases.
ANSI N320-1979 Referenced Document
ANSI N323-1978 Radiation protection instrumentation - Test and calibration
ANSI N320-1979 history
2005ANSI N320-2005 Performance Specifications for Reactor Emergency Radiological Monitoring Instrumentation
1978ANSI N320-1979 Performance specifications for reactor emergency radiological monitoring instrumentation