Detect abnormal gamma radiation levels in criticality incidents

Detection of increases in gamma radiation is crucial for facilities working with nuclear material, activating an alarm to evacuate staff. An updated CIDS for this purpose has been designed and tested for compliance with current standards.

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Background

Criticality Incident Detection Systems (CIDS) are used to detect an increase in gamma radiation and raise an alarm to evacuate staff.

It is also vital for CIDS to keep up with modern standards – which can be challenging with current designs.

The solution

A modern CIDS, developed by the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) for internal use, has been designed, to meet or exceed current standards.

Able to withstand fields of radiation encountered during a criticality incident and continue operating, the CIDS technology provides gamma dose information during and after a criticality event, supporting post-incident response.

This updated and redeveloped CIDS has undergone extensive gamma, neutron, electromagnetic, temperature and humidity testing.

Key benefits

Reduced false alarms – due to a ‘two out of N’ voting system.
The CIDS’ continuous diagnostic monitoring ensures any faults in the system are reported. If a channel is faulty, it can be maintained while the system continues to operate.
Safety improvement – designed to achieve Safety Integrity Level 2 (SIL 2) and is tolerant of Single Point Failures (SPF) as far as reasonably practicable.
A backup power supply ensures that alarm operation is maintained even after a loss of electrical supply, enabling continuous operation.
Facility-wide gamma dose information is available centrally and in real-time: before, during, and after a criticality event.

Potential applications

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Facilities requiring CIDS

This CIDS technology is applicable to facilities working with nuclear material.