In this module, the instrument measurement quantity 2π efficiency is used. It is usually provided in the manufacturer’s data and calibration certificate.

For some radionuclides estimating surface activity can be a relatively easy process; however for others, it is more complex. There are various stages to estimating surface activity, these are:

1. Identification of the radionuclides likely to be present and their most significant emissions.

2. Consideration of which of these are detectable by the instrument.

3. Estimation of the effect the surface conditions may have on the measurement.

All calculations of surface activity make a large number of assumptions that any results must carry a large uncertainty.

Good practice online modules

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• Practical radiation monitoring
  
• Practical radiation monitoring units
• Radiation monitoring strategy
• Choice of radiation instrument 
• Radiation monitoring techniques  
• Estimating surface radioactivity
• Radiation instrument calibration
• Uncertainties in radiation measurement 
• Troubleshooting in radiation monitoring