Setting Up a Shipment in ISIP
A shipment can consist of a single package with our without a shipping cask or hundreds of individual packages up to the weight limit of the vehicle used. An activity table is constructed for the shipment in the same manner as it is constructed for the packages. Package activities are added together to complete the shipment activity table. The activity table, defined for the shipment, is used to show compliance with the regulations applicable to shipments of radioactive materials. For NRC-approved Type A casks, the program automatically invokes the interim NRC ruling and determines the LSA limits using the old DOT rules.
(Most of the information needed to prepare shipping papers and manifests is already defined before the user reaches this point. A shipment can be defined by Selecting the consignee and carrier, adding a brief description, and then selecting the package(s) into the shipment. One the shipment is created papers appropriate to any disposition can be generated. The data base information stored for a radioactive material package is always the same whether it is a box of laundry or Class C resins).
Shipments are restricted in terms of overall activity depending on exclusivity of the shipment, and the form of the materials included. The program automatically checks the shipment for compliance with applicable regulations. It also is used to create the mandatory forms required to accompany the shipment. Because of the construction of the program and the depth of data that is maintained, programming of individual forms is very flexible and generally does not involve changes to the internal routines of the program. Programming and testing a new form can be achieved with a minimum of effort without the need to retest other parts of the program. Forms are displayed and printed in the same format so the user knows exactly how the final form will appear.
When a cask is used for a radioactive material or waste shipment, the user must predefine the load limits for the cask for the specific type of container used. Loading cases are defined based on cask manufacturer’s licensed conditions for use. Minimum radioactive shipment survey information required for the cask includes the dose rate at 1 meter which is used to determine the transport index for fissile exempt shipments, contact dose rate, driver compartment dose rate, and 2 meter dose rate.