NASA Procedural Requirements

NPR 1800.1E Effective Date: March 16, 2023 Expiration Date: March 16, 2028

Subject: NASA Occupational Health Program Procedures

Responsible Office: Office of the Chief Health & Medical Officer

Chapter 4. Environmental Health

4.1 General

4.1.1 Program

4.1.1.1 This chapter contains requirements in addition to Federal regulatory requirements (e.g., OSHA, NRC, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Department of Defense, and Department of Energy (DOE), although some could be enforced under the OSHA general duty clause. The NPR is not meant to replace or repeat those regulatory requirements.

4.1.2 Responsibilities

4.1.2.1 The OCHMO shall establish policy requirements for the EH programs and ensure the Center EH policies and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews. The OCHMO does not directly oversee day-to-day operations or programs at Centers or other NASA institutions.

4.1.2.2 In addition to Federal, state, and local requirements, Centers shall:

a. Comply with applicable and appropriate consensus standards and proprietary standards (e.g., American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) Threshold Limit Values and Biological Exposure Indices for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents; ANSI; American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE); and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE)).

b. Ensure EH organizations have a direct line of authority to the Center Director, such that other organizations with conflicting interests in EH decisions are not in the path of authority.

4.1.3 Recordkeeping

4.1.3.1 Centers shall:

a. Keep EH records to:

(1) Evaluate trends and outcomes.

(2) Validate the effectiveness of EH programs.

(3) Document employee and EH staff training and pertinent EH events.

(4) Provide a mechanism for active managerial control over EH programs covered in chapter 4.

b. Ensure records are:

(1) Managed in accordance with chapter 1.

(2) Complete, accurate, timely, appropriate for the task, and provide for a continuity of information.

(3) Historically traceable.

(4) Subject to periodic review for quality, efficacy, and consistency by the OCHMO.

(5) Generated, retained, and disposed of according to NASA records requirements as outline in chapter 1.

c. Use the Agency EHRS IH module and questionnaires to the maximum extent possible for OCHMO-defined IH requirements, including all EH sampling data used for personal exposure characterizations and records retention (e.g., routine shop surveys, ergonomics evaluation, exposure or incident investigations, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) surveys, and EH instrumentation inventory records).

4.1.4 Center policies and procedures

4.1.4.1 Centers shall:

a. Implement Center-level policy documents, as required by EH applicable regulations and this document.

b. Develop and maintain procedural level documentation to implement their programs adequately and consistently.

4.1.5 Emergency Management

4.1.5.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on EH emergency management and ensure EH emergency management policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.1.5.2 EH organizations shall:

a. Develop emergency management plans to implement their roles and responsibilities as specified in their respective Center emergency management plans.

b. Participate, at least annually, in emergency drills and lessons learned.

c. Use lessons learned to improve EH emergency responses.

4.1.6 Notification requirements

4.1.6.1 In addition to the reporting requirements specified in section 1.2.3, Centers shall:

a. Inform the DASHO and the Senior Environmental Health Officer (SEHO), by the most expeditious means, in less than 24 hours of the following Center events:

(1) Work-related death or in-patient hospitalization.

(2) Refusal of entry of any Federal, state, or local safety or EH regulatory agency.

(3) Receipt of Federal, state, or local safety or EH regulatory citations.

(4) Health and safety-related reports of reprisal or discrimination.

(5) Reports of Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health (IDLH) working conditions.

(6) Health and safety-related warrants/subpoenas.

(7) Other EH-related contact (i.e., OSHA Letter of Inquiry) with any Federal or state agency or organization involving regulatory issues or agency-related agreements.

b. Inform the DASHO and OSMA within three working days of:

(1) Results of any IH/HP/FS focused regulatory agency, Federal, state, or local inspections and investigative reports of OSHA reportable events.

(2) CA reports and OSHA reportable events replies to OSHA inspections, and reports of unsafe working conditions that are unresolved in 30 days.

c. Inform the SEHO of all IH, HP or FS program coordination, partnering, collaboration, and other such agreements with Federal or state agencies within ten days of first contact.

4.1.7 Training Requirements

4.1.7.1 Centers shall:

a. Ensure all employees are effectively and adequately trained for the tasks they perform and meet at least the minimum applicable regulatory requirements for training and certification, see OSHA 2254-09R, Training Requirements in OSHA Standards.

b. Meet safety training requirements in accordance with Basic Program Elements for Federal Employee Occupational Safety and Health Programs and Related Matters, 29 CFR pt. 1960, 29 CFR pt. 1910, and Safety and Health Regulations for Construction, 29 CFR pt. 1926. For additional information see NPR 8715.1, NASA Safety and Health Programs.

4.1.8 Budget and Resources

4.1.8.1 The CHMO shall ensure the Agency budget submission includes appropriate financial and other resources to effectively implement and administer the Agency's EH program per Financial Management, 29 CFR § 1960.7.

4.1.8.2 The DASHO, Center Directors, senior center management, and discipline program managers shall be responsible for planning, requesting resources, implementing, and evaluating EH program budgets in accordance with 29 CFR § 1960.7 and other relevant documents. For additional information see OMB Circular A-11, Preparation, Submission, and Execution of the Budget (sections 13.2(f) and 13.5(f)).

4.1.8.3 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on the EH budget and resources and ensure EH budget and resources are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.1.8.4 Centers shall provide resources for EH programs including, but not be limited to:

a. Adequate employees to implement and administer the program at all levels, including necessary administrative costs such as training, travel, and PPE.

b. Abatement of unsafe or unhealthy working conditions related to Agency operations or infrastructure.

c. Safety and health sampling, testing, and diagnostic and analytical tools and equipment, including laboratory analyses.

d. The capability to identify, analyze, and evaluate unsafe and unhealthy working conditions and operations.

e. Educational promotional material such as publications, posters, or films.

f. Technical information, documents, books, standards, codes, periodicals, and publications.

g. Medical surveillance programs for employees.

h. Employees, equipment, and other resources needed in support of the Agency EHRS IH module and questionnaires.

4.2 Occupational Exposure Limits

4.2.1 General

Unless specified elsewhere in this chapter, Centers shall utilize OSHA Permissible Exposure Limits (PEL), Threshold Limit Values (TLV) issued by the ACGIH, or specific NASA Health Standards issued by the OCHMO, whichever is more protective, or whichever is selected by a competent person.

Note: While the OSHA PELs carry the weight of law, most of these regulations were adopted in 1970 from 1968 consensus values and often do not reflect current scientific data. Additionally, there are currently only PELs established for approximately 400 chemicals, which is a relatively small percentage of the thousands of chemicals that exist. For these reasons, NASA adopts the use of OELs as a necessary and prudent practice.

4.2.2 Responsibilities

4.2.2.1 The OCHMO shall:

a. Provide guidance and advice to Centers on OELs.

b. Ensure Center OEL policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.2.2.2 Centers shall:

a. At a minimum, follow the OELs required by law, recommended and established by acknowledged authorities, and those developed specifically by NASA and apply whichever is more protective in the judgment of a competent person, such as a Certified Industrial Hygienist.

b. Ensure monitoring of the workplace and workforce, selecting the most appropriate and protective OEL's for the work being performed.

c. Ensure people with appropriate training implement OELs.

d. Coordinate with the OCHMO on the development of OELs in the absence of an existing OEL for a specific chemical and notify the OCHMO of all newly established OELs.

e. Thoroughly document all the available data used to establish the OEL including the rationale used in establishing an OEL. The rationale should consider, summarize, and weigh the importance of all data. Additionally, experience and professional judgment will be applied to weigh all information and apply an appropriate safety factor, based on the strength of the available data, before an OEL is established.

4.2.3 Process

4.2.3.1 In the absence of a specific PEL, TLV, or NASA Standard, other sources of OELs will be utilized, including:

a. The NIOSH Recommended Exposure Limits.

b. ANSI Standards.

c. The National Academy of Science recommendations

d. The American Industrial Hygiene Association Workplace Environmental Exposure Levels.

e. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommendations.

f. The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area) Maximum Allowable Concentrations.

g. The British Health & Safety Commission and Health & Safety Executive Occupational Exposure Limits.

h. Chemical manufacturers' recommended exposure values.

Note: When no established OEL exists for a specific chemical, a working OEL should be established by a competent person based on a thorough examination of the data available for that chemical and by following established IH exposure limit setting guidelines. The process of establishing a working OEL should consider chemical analogy, animal experimentation and extrapolation, and human experience and epidemiological data. In lieu of establishing a working OEL, Centers may take the approach of using control banding until an OEL is set by one of the organizations listed above. If Centers need assistance in determining OELs, the OCHMO will pursue individual requests with the appropriate Federal agency or standard-setting organization.

4.3 Occupational Exposure Assessment and Management

4.3.1 General

Centers shall use a systematic and comprehensive approach to exposure assessment to anticipate, recognize, evaluate, and control health hazards in the workplace to manage effectively and proactively all EH programs.

4.3.2 Responsibilities

4.3.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on occupational exposure assessment and management and ensure Center occupational exposure assessment and management policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.3.2.2 Centers shall employ a systematic and comprehensive approach to exposure assessment, establishing and implementing effective exposure assessment and management programs to anticipate, recognize, evaluate, and control health hazards in the workplace.

4.3.2.3 EH programs shall:

a. Establish a written occupational exposure assessment and management program whose purpose is to collect and organize available information on the workplace; the workforce; chemical, physical, and biological agents; existing exposure controls; historical exposure data; biological monitoring data; and any other available source of information such as OELs that includes: (1) program goals, (2) objectives, and (3) an initial comprehensive exposure assessment updated periodically to remain current.

b. Document the outcome of this exposure assessment effort in the Agency EHRS IH Module and questionnaires with a complete summary of available, essential information on employees, tasks, chemical, physical and biological agents, potential exposures (factoring in frequency and duration) and potential health effects.

c. Create Similar Exposure Groups (SEG) and define exposure profiles for all identified exposure groups. The exception to this requirement is research and test operations, which do not lend themselves to having similar exposures.

d. Make a determination about the acceptability, unacceptability, or uncertainty of the exposure profile defined for each SEG leading to the follow-up steps: (1) uncertain exposures lead to further information gathering, (2) unacceptable exposures lead to control of the exposure, and (3) acceptable exposures lead to a periodic programmed reassessment based on risk.

e. Ensure exposure groups with unacceptable exposures are prioritized and a strategy developed for exposure control.

f. Notify Clinics regarding action level and unacceptable exposures for medical surveillance purposes and to identify SEGs.

g. Ensure exposure assessment programs have a component that involves continual information gathering for the purpose of setting priorities on exposure groups for additional characterization and further information gathering. This can be either qualitative or quantitative information and used to enhance the basic characterization and better define exposure groups, their profile, and the risks posed by exposure profiles.

h. Ensure exposures are periodically (periodicity should be based on a risk-based approach) re-characterized and reassessed to update exposure groups and exposure profiles.

4.3.3 Process

4.3.3.1 The following hierarchy of controls will be followed:

a. Apply engineering controls first.

b. Until engineering controls are implemented or when engineering controls are not feasible, use administrative controls or PPE.

c. Use PPE as a last control measure.

4.3.3.2 The following records will be maintained in accordance with NPR 1441.1 and this document:

a. Lists of SEGs.

b. Exposure profiles.

c. Judgments of acceptability.

4.4 Sampling, Analytical Methods, and Equipment Calibration

4.4.1 General

Centers shall adhere to OSHA, NIOSH, or other recognized sampling and analytical methods using properly calibrated equipment with the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) traceability, where applicable, to ensure the integrity of critical data.

4.4.2 Responsibilities

4.4.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on sampling, analytical methods, and equipment calibration and ensure Center sampling, analytical methods, and equipment calibration policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.4.2.2 Centers shall:

a. Develop policies and procedures to ensure proper sampling techniques, analytical methods, and equipment calibration are used throughout the data collection process with adherence to OSHA, NIOSH, or other recognized sampling and analytical methods.

b. Use properly calibrated equipment with NIST traceability, where applicable. Calibration should be at least to manufacturers specifications.

c. Develop written policies and procedures for sampling, analytical methods, and equipment calibration utilizing methods established by professional or regulatory bodies which at a minimum address the following:

(1) Sample planning.

(2) Sampling methodology.

(3) Pre-survey calibration.

(4) Survey performance.

(5) Sample collection.

(6) Post-survey calibration.

(7) Sample documentation.

(8) Shipment of sample media.

(9) Equipment calibration and maintenance.

(10) Recordkeeping.

d. Apply the following hierarchy of engineering, administrative, and PPE controls whenever the sample exceeds the applicable OEL:

(1) Apply engineering controls first.

(2) Until engineering controls are implemented or when engineering controls are not feasible, use administrative controls or PPE.

(3) Use PPE as a last control measure.

e. Document the outcome of sampling in the Agency EHRS IH Module and questionnaires.

f. Maintain results in accordance with NPR 1441.1.

4.5 Reproductive and Developmental Health

4.5.1 General

4.5.1.1 Centers shall protect the reproductive health of the workforce and others from exposures to hazardous materials and articles (chemical, biological, radiological, and physical) that are known or suspected of being capable of posing a hazard to human reproduction by:

a. Identifying potential reproductive and developmental hazards and implementing appropriate exposure control measures.

b. Keeping exposures As Low As is Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) since short-term exposures to reproductive hazards can result in long-term health effects, and a developing fetus may also be adversely affected by exposures lower than those generally considered safe for adults.

4.5.2 Responsibilities

4.5.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on reproductive and developmental health and ensure Center reproductive and developmental health policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.5.2.2 Centers shall develop, implement, administer, and maintain written developmental and reproductive health protection programs designed to ensure the workforce and their unborn children are adequately protected from recognized hazards.

4.5.2.3 EH Programs shall:

a. Write developmental and reproductive health protection guidelines that include provisions for:

(1) Evaluating areas where potential chemical, biological, or physical reproductive hazards exist.

(2) Determining the extent of potential exposures.

(3) Developing/implementing procedures to reduce workplace exposures to reproductive hazards (i.e., engineering controls, job rotation, use of PPE, etc.).

(4) Providing information and training on the chemical, physical, and biological hazards that may be present in the work area which may be reproductive and developmental health hazards.

(5) Providing training on the proper use of PPE, safety devices, and other methods of decreasing exposure, including information on the declaration of pregnancy for radiological issues.

(6) Implementing measures (for declared pregnancies) to achieve the lower exposure limit (0.5 rem to embryo/fetus during entire gestation period) and conducting dose monitoring.

(7) Managing written licensee’s policy on declared pregnant individuals and written declaration of pregnancies for employees exposed to radiological hazards.

Note: See sections 4.14 Radioactive Materials and 4.15 Ionizing Radiation-Generating Equipment for more information.

(8) Ensuring that known reproductive hazards specific to a work area are described in a written Job Safety Analysis, Job Hazard Analysis, or another hazard documentation.

(9) Ensuring that supervisors provide individual operational training to ensure reduced risk of exposures.

(10) Maximizing employee privacy when implementing the elements of the program.

(11) Notifying Clinics of areas with potential exposures for medical surveillance purposes.

(12) Notifying IH regarding new areas that may require workplace reproductive hazard assessment.

(13) Ensuring that alternate job duties are considered when indicated by the Clinic.

(14) Designating the person responsible for arranging reasonable accommodations, if available.

(15) Designating the person responsible for counseling the affected person about other options, including sick leave and family leave when a reasonable accommodation is not available.

b. Perform additional workplace reproductive hazard assessments upon request or when changes occur to ensure existing controls (engineering, administrative, and PPE) are adequate to protect employees from reproductive hazards.

c. Include the following in the workplace hazard assessment:

(1) Identification of chemical, biological, physical, and radioactive agents in the workplace that present a potential exposure risk.

(2) A qualitative exposure assessment of the concerned employee.

(3) A review of work practices and PPE used, and recommendations for additional control measures, if needed.

(4) A review of past EH reports and historical sampling results, if available.

4.6 Nanotoxicology

4.6.1 General

Nanomaterial, as currently defined by NIOSH, may pose an unusual risk to human health due to their unique composition, reactivity, size, and ability to cross cell membranes. All work with manufactured nanomaterial will be prudently conducted in a manner that is responsible and safe.

4.6.2 Responsibilities

4.6.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on nanotechnology and ensure Center nanotechnology policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.6.2.2 Centers with nanomaterials shall:

a. Ensure all work with manufactured nanomaterial adheres to the following requirements.

b. Develop written nanotoxicology programs that are designed and implemented to ensure all work with manufactured nanomaterial minimizes exposures to an As Low As is Reasonably Practicable (ALARP) level, or to other exposure standards as described in this document and encompass the requirements of this section.

4.6.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Ensure transportation, storage, use, and disposal of manufactured nanomaterial is conducted in accordance with all Federal, state, local, Agency, and Center requirements.

b. Ensure employees potentially exposed to manufactured nanomaterials be informed of the risks associated through training programs, safety data sheets, labeling, and signage.

c. Conform to best available work practices, such as, but not limited to, those from NIOSH, OSHA, and FDA for products that utilize nanotechnology and/or contain manufactured nanomaterial.

d. Conduct Hazard Assessments (HA) prior to beginning work with manufactured nanomaterial.

e. Designate a competent person to conduct HAs.

f. Ensure exposures to manufactured nanomaterial be kept to a minimum ALARP by utilizing the basic hierarchy of controls described below, as prescribed by a competent person except for a material being in solution or embedded in substrate where it cannot become airborne:

Note: Although traditional OELs exist for many of the materials from which nanomaterial is made, the OEL for a nanomaterial of these substances is not yet clear. As a result, NASA’s approach for controlling exposures to nanomaterial differs from those of traditional hazardous materials covered in the section 4.3 Occupational Exposure Assessment and Management.

(1) Engineering. These controls may include local exhaust ventilation and localized filtration.

(2) Administrative. It is important to incorporate administrative controls, such as scheduling maintenance of fume hoods on off hours, and limit potential exposure time into operations involving nanomaterial's due to the ambiguity about nanomaterial OELs. The incorporation of good work practices helps to minimize exposure to manufactured nanoparticles.

(3) PPE. Employees will wear typical chemistry laboratory apparel and PPE when working with manufactured nanomaterial. This includes long pants, shirts, and shoes, as well as safety glasses, laboratory coats, gloves, and eye protection. Open sandals and skirts are prohibited. Respiratory protection is utilized when local exhaust ventilation and filtration are not available or feasible for work involving manufactured nanomaterial not suspended in liquids or embedded in substrate. However, the preferred method for manipulating manufactured nanomaterial is in solution, and every effort should be made to design and implement effective engineering controls for any operation where manufactured nanomaterial is used.

g. Ensure spill management be addressed, emphasizing that all debris resulting from the cleanup of a manufactured nanomaterial spill is handled as though it were hazardous and include procedures for access control and cleanup of both dry and wet materials.

4.6.2.4 Employees conducting HAs shall:

a. Identify appropriate engineering control, administrative controls, and PPE to ensure employee safety.

b. Ensure HAs evaluate several factors, including, but not limited to, the physical and chemical properties of the nanomaterial, the process by which it is generated and/or used, and the adequacy of existing engineering controls (e.g., fume hood and glove box).

Note: In some instances, the competent person may recommend collecting occupational exposure measurements (e.g., sampling) to further understand potential hazards or to identify specific processes or equipment requiring additional engineering controls.

4.7 Control of Hazardous Materials and Articles Acquisitions

4.7.1 General

Centers shall protect the health of the workforce and others from exposures to hazardous materials and articles (chemical, biological, radiological, and physical) that are known or suspected of being capable of posing a hazard to humans.

4.7.2 Responsibilities

4.7.2.1 The OCHMO shall guide and advise Centers on hazardous materials and articles acquisitions and ensure Center hazardous materials and articles acquisition policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.7.2.2 Centers shall:

a. Administer and identify hazardous material and article acquisitions.

b. Perform a hazard analysis.

c. Maintain and monitor the effectiveness of hazardous material and/or article acquisition programs, including all mechanisms for acquiring hazardous materials and articles.

d. Review the records of purchases, at least annually, to ensure that hazardous material and/or article acquisitions are being properly reviewed and approved by competent persons and OH safety requirements are being properly implemented prior to acquisition.

e. Follow, at a minimum, the manufacturer's product recommendations and requirements, except when directed by a competent person to use alternate controls or where inconsistent with the requirements of section 4.8 or generally accepted practices.

f. Ensure the requirements of this section are included in all contract procurements with provisions to extend the requirements into subcontracts.

g. Designate competent persons to review procurements and other acquisitions of hazardous materials and/or articles, and coordinate with safety and health organizations to (1) Identify hazards associated with the materials and/or articles being obtained, (2) Identify alternatives, where available, to reduce risk, (3) Determine safety and health requirements for the safe use of hazardous materials and/or articles, and (4) Disapprove acquisitions of hazardous materials and/or articles that cannot be safely used.

h. Evaluate the potential exposure issues involved with the use of hazardous materials and articles (e.g., equipment, x-ray machines, 3-D printers, lasers). See Table 4-1, Partial Listing of Hazardous and Potentially Hazardous Articles and Substances.

i. Ensure hazardous materials and/or articles are not procured or otherwise acquired until an adequate hazard analysis has been completed and adequate controls have been determined.

j. Ensure hazardous materials and/or articles are not brought onto Centers until adequate controls have been implemented.

k. Implement a means to control and regulate acquisitions of hazardous materials and/or articles.

l. Implement a means to hold purchasers and receivers accountable for the proper and safe acquisition of hazardous materials and articles.

m. Implement the following requirements prior to hazardous materials and/or articles acquisition:

(1) Use of less hazardous materials or articles if materials and/or articles can reasonably be substituted.

(2) Acquisition of the smallest reasonable amount, size, activity, and/or hazard potential.

(3) Approval of the acquisition by a competent person.

(4) Completion of hazard determinations, training, and other pertinent preparations adequate to ensure safe use.

n. Implement the hazardous materials storage and handling requirements delineated in NPR 8715.1.

Table 4-1. Partial Listing of Hazardous and Potentially Hazardous Articles
and Substances

4.8 Hearing Conservation

4.8.1 General

4.8.1.1 This section outlines additional requirements to those established in Occupational Noise Exposure, 29 CFR § 1910.95 and Recording Criteria for Cases Involving Occupational Hearing Loss, 29 CFR § 1904.10 for prevention of noise-induced hearing loss where employees are occupationally exposed to hazardous noise and applies to all NASA occupational settings except spaceflight.

4.8.1.2 Any work area where the environmental noise level is at or above 85 dBA, or where the environmental impulse noise level is at or above 140 dB peak C-weighted (dBC) or linear, regardless of duration of exposure or number of impulses, will constitute a hazardous noise area.

4.8.1.3 Implementation of a written site-specific Hearing Conservation Program (HCP) will be the mandatory means by which Centers and other field facilities apply Federal, state, local and NASA Hearing Conservation standards and associated program requirements.

4.8.1.4 Disposable Hearing Protection Devices (HPD) are for the exclusive use of each person and not to be traded or shared. If non-disposable HPDs are used, properly sanitize and inspect prior to use.

4.8.1.5 The American Medical Association Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment will be used as a guideline in determining hearing impairment.

4.8.2 Responsibilities

4.8.2.1 The OCHMO shall guide and advise Centers on hearing conservation and ensure Center hearing conservation policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.8.2.2 Centers shall:

a. Protect and conserve the hearing of the workforce from occupational exposures to hazardous noise by identifying hazardous noise areas and appropriately implementing noise exposure control measures.

b. Implement a written site-specific HCP that includes the items listed in Table 4-2, Hearing Conservation Program Elements

c. Administer a continuing, effective HCP in conformance with the requirements of this section with all the affected employees included in the program.

d. Ensure employees knowledgeable in sound analysis, noise exposure assessment, hearing protection, audiometric testing, and noise abatement strategies implement HCP and associated programs.

Table 4-2. Hearing Conservation Program Elements

e. Document and perform HCP self-reviews at least annually. A self-review consists of items such as, but not limited to, review of STS, review of hazardous noise areas, and review of monitoring equipment.

f. Develop/implement requirements for handling threshold shifts that include those listed in Table 4-3, Requirements for Handling Threshold Shifts.

g. Utilize engineering controls as the first and primary means of controlling hazardous noise to reduce noise emissions (measured at operator position or equivalent) to below 85 dBA. The feasibility and cost of engineering controls may be considered when making decisions about these controls.

h. Utilize administrative controls, only if engineering controls fail to reduce sound levels to the requirements specified in this section. Examples of administrative controls include access restrictions and time limitations in the hazardous noise area. Specific requirements for administrative controls include maximizing the distance between the person and the hazardous noise source to the extent practical and appropriately identifying hazardous noise areas.

Table 4-3. Requirements for Handling Threshold Shifts

i. Utilize HPDs to bring exposures to acceptable levels, only if engineering and administrative controls fail to reduce sound levels to within the requirements specified in this section,

j. Identify hazardous noise areas and hazardous noise producing equipment according to the following criteria:

(1) Use signs to clearly indicate the presence of hazardous noise and state the requirement to wear hearing protection.

(2) Post signs at the entrance(s) to or the periphery of hazardous noise area(s).

k. Use HPDs that attenuate noise exposure to:

(1) An eight-hour, Time Weighted Average (TWA) of 85 dBA or less.

(2) An eight-hour, TWA of 82 dBA or less for those persons with an STS.

Note: The published HPD Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) value may be used, if available.

l. When using de-rating criteria for each noise area, determine HPD attenuation by the most conservative method for defining the NRR of HPDs.

m. Reevaluate the adequacy of HPD attenuation whenever employees’ noise exposures increase. Special hearing-protective equipment, such as sound-suppression or noise-cancellation communication headsets, will be regularly inspected if they are used in hazardous noise areas.

n. Remove any sound-suppression and noise-cancellation headsets that have been damaged, altered, or modified in any way that affect the attenuation characteristics.

o. Ensure that sound-suppression and noise-cancellation headsets which have not been permanently assigned to a single individual are cleaned and sanitized before re-issuance.

p. Ensure noisy areas are surveyed to determine if they are hazardous noise areas in accordance with the following requirements:

(1) Conduct measurement of potentially hazardous sound levels when any information, observation, or calculation indicates that a person may be exposed to noise at or above the action level (50 percent of the OEL).

(2) Conduct noise surveys whenever any changes to facilities, equipment, work practices, procedures, or noise-control measures alter potential noise exposures.

(3) Identify, select and survey hazardous noise areas, and document a review of each hazardous noise area for changes in conditions, noise sources, and configuration. Provide workers and/or their representatives an opportunity to observe noise dosimetry and area monitoring activities.

(4) Conduct octave band analysis, as necessary, to establish the characteristics of the noise source and to help determine appropriate abatement techniques.

(5) When a noise survey is performed, determine the presence of compounding hearing related circumstances present in the environment (e.g., certain solvents, heavy metals, carbon monoxide, heat, and vibration) to ensure proper mitigation.

(6) Conduct exposure monitoring when a noise survey shows that an employee(s) may be exposed to noise at or above 82 dBA, eight-hour TWA.

(7) In determining TWA exposures, integrate all continuous, intermittent, and impact/impulse sound levels into the noise measurements.

(8) Conduct assessments of each operation, job, or procedure having the potential to create hazardous noise and ensure adequacy of planned precautions and/or noise controls implemented.

(9) Evaluate new equipment, operations, jobs, or procedures with the potential for creating hazardous noise about noise emissions prior to operational start up.

(10) Utilize instruments that are field-calibrated or calibrated to manufacture’s specifications prior to use and checked and calibrated at least annually by the manufacturer, a representative of the manufacturer, or an approved laboratory.

(11) Set sound-level meters at “slow” response and A-weighting.

(12) Notify affected employees in writing of the results of noise dosimetry monitoring.

(13) Notify employers of affected employees and their responsible OHP managers when noise measurement data indicated that noise exposures equal or exceed the action level in Table 4-4, NASA’s Action Level Equivalent Exposures. Written reports of the hazardous noise surveys will identify survey observations, findings, and conclusions.

q. Enroll employees exposed to noise equal to or exceeding the NASA action level of 82 dBA TWA for 30 days or more per year, or those who can be expected to be exposed to 85 dBA TWA for any one day, in an HCP that meets the requirements of this document. Exposures are computed without regard to any attenuation provided using personal protective equipment.

Note: NASA's Action Level for noise is the equivalent to an 82 dBA, eight-hour TWA exposure, using a three-dB exchange rate, as shown in Table 4-4.

r. Ensure all employees who enter designated areas or who perform tasks where exposure to noise is greater than or equal to 82 dBA, regardless of the duration of exposure, are provided with personal HPDs.

Table 4-4. NASA's Action Level Equivalent Exposures

s. Ensure all employees who enter designated hazardous noise areas or who perform tasks where exposure to noise is greater than or equal to 85 dBA or 140 peak dBC or linear, regardless of the duration of exposure or number of impulses, are provided with and required to wear personal HPDs, unless exposure data shows that the employee stays below the action level.

Note. NASA's noise exposure limit (Criterion Sound Level (CSL)) is the equivalent to an 85 dBA, eight-hour TWA exposure using a three-dB exchange rate as shown in Table 4-5, Noise Exposure Limits (Equivalent Exposures).

t. Ensure all exposures exceeding the limits in Table 4-5 be controlled, reduced, or eliminated through a hierarchical combination of engineering controls, administrative controls, and HPDs.

4.8.2.3 Clinics shall:

a. Ensure audiometric test equipment is calibrated to meet the requirements specified in the latest revision of ANSI/ASA S3.6, Specification for Audiometers.

Table 4-5. Noise Exposure Limits (Equivalent Exposures)

Note: The definitions in 29 CFR 1910.95 are applicable to this section unless otherwise specified in Appendix A of this document.

b. Ensure ambient noise levels in audiometric test rooms and booths meet the specifications in the latest version of ANSI/ASA S3.1, Maximum Permissible Ambient Noise Levels for Audiometric Test Rooms.

c. Provide medical surveillance to all employees enrolled in an HCP in accordance with the following requirements:

(1) Ensure employees receiving medical surveillance undergo a baseline audiometric examination before beginning work assignments in hazardous noise areas. If it is not possible to obtain the baseline prior to noise assignment, then employees will undergo a baseline audiometric examination within 30 days of initial exposure to hazardous noise.

(a) Ensure employees wear personal HPDs, during this 30-day period, which reduce their exposure to 82 dBA TWA or below.

(b) Conduct audiometric evaluation within 30 days of the discovery for any employees found to have already been assigned to a position that may expose them to hazardous noise but have not yet had an audiometric examination performed by audiologists, physicians, or CAOHC certified occupational hearing conservationists

(c) Ensure employees wear personal hearing protection that reduces their exposure to 82 dBA TWA or below until audiometry has been conducted.

(2) Ensure audiologists, physicians, or CAOHC certified occupational hearing conservationists conduct audiometric examinations, include audiometry and an otoscopic examination, to identify any existing abnormal medical conditions of the ear, and an update to the person's medical record to document past noise exposure and other otopathological factors.

(3) Validate that the employee has no apparent or suspected ear, nose, or throat problems that might compromise the validity of the audiogram. When a person has an acute disease that may compromise the validity of the test, delay audiometry until the condition has abated.

(4) Inquire about ototoxic medications and exposure to ototoxic substances or materials during the exposure and medical history taken at the time of the audiometric examination.

(5) Take all reasonable measures to ensure that employees suffering from acute diseases of the ear are not placed in hazardous noise areas until the condition has abated, particularly if such diseases preclude the wearing of hearing protectors.

(6) Take all reasonable measures to ensure that employees who have participated in the HCP medical surveillance program receive a final audiometric examination prior to termination of employment, transfer to duties not involving noise exposures, transfer to another installation, or retirement. An annual audiogram, if completed within six months prior to termination, transfer, or retirement date, may serve as the final audiogram.

(7) When employees at a Center retain their work role position but change employers due to contract award to a new employer, all medical records applicable to hearing conservation will follow them to their new employer, including their current baseline threshold.

d. Perform audiometric testing upon initial assignment, and annually thereafter, in accordance with 29 CFR § 1910.95, sections (g) and (h) and additionally as follows:

(1) Ensure all audiometric testing is conducted by CAOHC-certified occupational hearing conservationists and reviewed by audiologists and/or physicians knowledgeable in hearing conservation.

(2) Ensure employees who conduct audiometric testing are familiar with the provisions of this section.

(3) Ensure all baseline audiograms and confirmation audiograms, following the identification of an STS, are preceded by a period of at least 14 hours, during which no exposure to noise above 82 dBA TWA, on or off the job, occurs. Hearing protectors that lower workplace noise to the equivalent of 82 dBA TWA, using the appropriate noise-reduction rating, may be used to conform to this requirement.

Note: An STS is defined as a decline in hearing threshold, relative to the baseline audiogram, of an average of 10 dB or more at 2000, 3000, and 4000 Hz in either ear.

(4) Provide the employee and their employer written notification of the requirement to perform a functional ability evaluation, for any employee identified during any medical evaluation, as listed in Appendix C, or audiometric examination as potentially unable to perform their job safely or identified as having a hearing profile equal to or worse than that listed in Table 4-6, Unacceptable Employee Hearing Profile, below. The written notification includes results of pertinent work history and relevant conditions (e.g., visual impairment, that may affect ability to safely perform the work expected in the position held or to wear appropriate personal hearing protection equipment in a hazardous noise area).

Table 4-6. Unacceptable Employee Hearing Profile

e. Ensure accurate HCP records are maintained in accordance with NRRS 1441.1 in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.95 and chapter 1 of this document.

f. Conduct all HCP and/or hazardous noise training such that:

(1) Each Occupational Hearing Conservationist obtain CAOHC certification. A CAOHC refresher course will be taken at least every five years

(2) Occupational health personnel who conduct assessments receive initial training on their Center's hearing conservation program and in the hazards of noise exposure

g. Document official HCP-related activities as follows:

(1) Audiometric test records will include, as a minimum:

(i) Hearing threshold levels at 500, 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 6000, and 8000 Hz.

(ii) Audiometric reference level to which the audiometer was calibrated at the time of testing.

(iii) Date of the audiogram.

(iv) Employee’s first and last names, employee number, and job classification.

(v) Examiner's name and position.

(vi) Date of the last calibration of the audiometer.

(2) Audiograms and noise-exposure records will be maintained as a permanent part of an employee’s medical record.

(3) When noise exposure measurement records are representative of the exposures of other individuals participating in the HCP and to the extent allowable by 5 U.S.C. § 552a and, where applicable, Pub. L. 104-191, the range of noise levels and the average noise doses will be made a permanent part of the medical records of those other individuals.

4.8.2.4 Medical Directors shall ensure medical evaluations relative to occupational noise are properly performed, appropriate records are maintained, and that all examination results are communicated to the affected employee as specified in this document.

4.8.2.5 Unless it has been determined that an STS is not work related or aggravated by occupational noise, physicians shall take the following steps when an STS occurs:

a. Refer employees to an otolaryngologist/physician knowledgeable in hearing conservation or to an audiologist for more comprehensive testing when it is suspected medical pathology of the ear is caused or aggravated by the wearing of hearing protectors.

b. Inform employees of the need for an otological examination if a medical pathology of the ear unrelated to the use of hearing protectors is suspected.

c. Refer employees to their supervisors for persistent failure to obtain a valid audiogram.

d. Notify the appropriate office for safety mishap documentation and investigation.

4.8.2.6 Organizations responsible for introducing changes to facilities, operations, or procedures shall notify OH employees of:

a. Changes in operations or equipment that increases noise levels.

b. New, uncontrolled, or previously unidentified areas, operations, or equipment that may produce hazardous noise or may not comply with the requirements of this section.

4.9 Ergonomics

4.9.1 General

4.9.1.1 Industry standards applicable to ergonomics equipment are considered requirements of this section.

4.9.2 Responsibilities

The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on ergonomics and ensure Center ergonomics policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.9.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Support and approve a Center ergonomics policy whose program includes, at a minimum, the following elements:

(1) Establishing a method for employees (and their designated representatives) to report signs and symptoms of Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSD); obtain responses to reports; and participate in developing, implementing, and evaluating each element of the program.

(2) Ensuring policies or practices encourage employees to participate in the program and report signs and symptoms of MSDs.

(3) Evaluating employee reports of signs and symptoms of an MSD to determine whether an MSD has occurred.

(4) Providing information to employees periodically that explains how to identify and report signs and symptoms of an MSD.

b. Establish a written ergonomics program that includes at least the following elements:

(1) Management support and employee participation.

(2) Worksite analysis.

(3) Job analysis.

(4) Medical management.

(5) Training.

(6) Program evaluation.

c. Implement and maintain effective ergonomics programs, consistent with the requirements stated herein and with current professional guidance from organizations such as OSHA and NIOSH, that ensure proper fit between the job tasks, equipment, and the employee performing the duties.

d. Encourage active participation in developing, implementing, and evaluating ergonomics programs.

e. Ensure reevaluation of their ergonomics programs at least annually and implement changes to ensure coverage of all potential ergonomics hazards.

f. Maintain metrics that document the efficacy of the ergonomics program used to improve the program and further reduce MSD risks.

g. Assure that IH is involved in the procurement and selection of computer workstations.

h. Ensure employees be provided proper ergonomics training to make them aware of the ergonomics program, common MSD hazards, and methods for eliminating MSD hazards.

i. Encourage employees to report MSD signs or symptoms.

j. Ensure all MSD signs and symptoms are evaluated in all areas where potential ergonomics hazards exist, and all ergonomics hazards eliminated, reduced to the extent feasible, or materially reduced using an incremental abatement process.

k. Ensure a worksite analysis be performed in all areas where potential ergonomics hazards exist and whenever operations are introduced or modified creating the potential for new ergonomic hazards. This includes, but is not limited to, examination and tracking of injury and illness records to identify patterns of traumas or strains that may indicate the development of MSDs.

l. Analyze all operations with the presence of significant ergonomics risk factors to fully define the ergonomics risk factors that could result in MSD hazards and an incremental abatement process implemented to eliminate, reduce to the extent feasible, or materially reduce ergonomics hazards.

m. Have a medical intervention and/or management program that is:

(1) Designed and implemented to eliminate or reduce the risk of development of MSDs through early identification and treatment.

(2) Implemented by qualified medical providers with concerted efforts made to return employees to work as soon as medically possible.

4.10 Indoor Air Quality

4.10.1 General

4.10.1.1 This section outlines the requirements to minimize the negative impact that poor IAQ can have in the workplace on employee health, productivity, morale, and absenteeism. It establishes minimum standards for IAQ programs about complaint investigation, IAQ testing, communication of IAQ information, mold remediation, recordkeeping, and general requirements.

4.10.2 Responsibilities

4.10.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on IAQ and ensure IAQ policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.10.2.2 Centers shall:

a. Develop written IAQ programs intended to ensure all indoor environments are adequately controlled for recognized IAQ-related hazards.

b. Ensure their IAQ programs include provisions for the following:

(1) Investigating IAQ complaints; conducting IAQ testing; offering technical guidance and support on minimizing the impact of construction, renovation, and maintenance activities on IAQ; recommending CAs to resolve all IAQ problems; communicating IAQ information to employees; remediating mold, and recordkeeping.

(2) Evaluating the medical condition of employees who report signs or symptoms that they suspect may be related to indoor air contaminants.

(3) Evaluating building Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) system designs and modifications to determine if recommended standards, including ASHRAE guidelines are met and do not adversely affect local exhaust ventilation systems used to control hazardous materials.

(4) Evaluating housekeeping services to help ensure they are minimizing dust accumulation and food wastes and maintaining floor surfaces (including carpets) in an effective manner to lessen the likelihood of IAQ complaints.

(5) Assessing the process for moisture control and mold remediation to help ensure it is effective.

(6) Developing a plan for remediation when mold is found to be present commensurate with current governmental, industry, and consensus guidelines and recommendations. The methods used for mold remediation depend on the type of material and the extent of the area with mold growth.

c. Eliminate or minimize indoor air-related hazards (i.e., visible mold, pesticides, ozone from copiers, insufficient ventilation, chemicals in open containers, outdoor sources, etc.) that may contribute to IAQ problems.

d. Minimize the impact of construction, renovation, and maintenance activities on IAQ; resolve all IAQ problems; and communicate IAQ information to affected employees.

e. Involve the cooperation of other internal organizations in IAQ investigations, including, but not limited to, affected individuals, IH, OM, building managers, janitorial staff, maintenance, and operations staff.

f. Ensure an open, transparent, and effective communication process with affected employees regarding an IAQ investigation's findings and subsequent CAs be developed and followed for significant IAQ problems which includes:

(1) Communication efforts starting at the earliest stages of an IAQ investigation.

(2) Both verbal and written communication.

(3) Communication continued until the IAQ concern is effectively resolved.

g. Follow three basic IAQ investigation steps (these are not necessarily distinct stages, and some may be intermixed depending on the situation and discretion of the investigator):

(1) Identification and investigation of the IAQ concern by competent employees within the appropriate IH organization.

(2) Collection of appropriate and representative samples and other survey documentation.

(3) Evaluation of data, recommendations and conclusions, and report generation.

h. Notify employees about building conditions, policies, procedures, and plans that may have a significant adverse impact (e.g., planned renovation, remodeling, and maintenance or pest control activities) on IAQ and operational activities.

i. Ensure IAQ investigation results are evaluated, and conclusions and recommendations derived and documented with a summary compiled into a report and distributed/communicated to all affected parties, at the conclusion of the IAQ investigation.

j. Ensure records for all IAQ investigations be maintained as objective evidence of compliance with this section and include the following:

(1) A log of IAQ complaints.

(2) All IAQ interview questionnaires and forms.

(3) Any monitoring and IH sampling conducted during the investigation.

(4) All IAQ reports with conclusions and recommendations.

4.10.2.3 EH employees shall collaborate with facilities maintenance and operational management employees to ensure the following additional IAQ best practice requirements are incorporated into each IAQ program:

a. Plan and manage construction and maintenance activities in occupied buildings to minimize the release of dust, vapors, fumes, and other air contaminants and protect employees and building occupants.

b. Use low/no Volatile Organic Compound emitting building and office materials such as paint, carpet, upholstery, cushions, adhesives, and furniture which will not significantly contribute to IAQ problems.

c. Maintain carpets to ensure they do not become a source of dust, mold, bacteria, and other indoor air contaminants.

d. Follow Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles to minimize occupant exposure to pest- and pesticide-related contaminants and reduce vapors and dusts created during pesticide applications.

e. Prohibit parked vehicles, such as those in loading docks, from remaining running near building air intakes where exhaust contaminants may be entrained into the building.

f. Locate designated smoking areas away from air intake systems or entry/exit doors where smoke may be entrained into the building.

g. Immediately attend to water spills and leaks and report water leaks without delay.

h. Properly maintain decorative plants as to not create an environment for mold or bacteria.

i. Maintain water reservoirs (i.e., cooling towers, condensate pans, hot water tanks, stagnant plumbing systems such as eye washes) to limit biological growth.

4.11 Biosafety

4.11.1 General

4.11.1.1 The scope of these requirements is limited to direct work and handling of biological hazards. This includes, but is not limited to, non-medical biological laboratory employees and animal handlers. These requirements do not apply to potential or incidental exposure to biological hazards because of a complication to one's normal industrial work (such as a plumber or custodian) or to clinical medical functions. Such aspects will be covered under program/project-specific plans such as BBP and procedures.

4.11.1.2 For purposes of these requirements, the hazards associated with Animal Biosafety Levels (ABSL) and the Biosafety Levels (BSL) described in the CDC Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) are equivalent. All BSL requirements apply to ABSLs.

4.11.1.3 The applicable recommended practices, requirements, safety equipment, training, and facility safeguards described in the latest edition of the BMBL as recommended by OSHA will be used as a reference.

4.11.2 Responsibilities

4.11.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on biosafety and ensure biosafety policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.11.2.2 Centers shall:

a. Protect the health of employees and others from the risks associated with the use of hazardous biological materials, agents, and/or animals.

b. Develop written biosafety programs that ensure implementation of the provisions of this section, that includes at a minimum, the approach for adhering to the mandatory requirements of all applicable regulators and includes provisions for engineering controls, administrative controls, work practices, decontamination, infectious waste management, and disposal.

c. Develop a Biosafety Operations Manual that identifies specific hazards that may be encountered and that specifies practices and procedures designed to minimize or eliminate exposures to those hazards.

d. Implement and maintain effective biosafety programs consistent with the requirements stated herein and with current professional guidance from organizations such as National Institutes of Health (NIH), USDA, and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee.

e. Ensure a hazard analysis or exposure assessment be conducted on all work with biologically hazardous materials, agents, and/or animals, including mammalian tissues or cells, and animal products.

f. Determine co-application of BSLs, ABSLs, and NIH Risk Groups (RG) by a protocol driven risk assessment and adjust the exposure controls accordingly.

g. Ensure equivalent control measures be taken to protect employees from potential exposures to animal borne biological agents.

h. Adhere to the following training requirements when using biohazardous agents:

(1) Ensure employees using biohazardous agents are trained and knowledgeable about the risks to which they may be occupationally exposed, the types of exposures that place their health at risk, the nature and significance of such risks, as well as the appropriate first aid and follow up for potential exposures.

(2) Ensure employees read, understand, and follow the required practices and procedures and consult with safety or health professionals about risk assessment prior to use of those materials or organisms.

(3) Provide refresher training at least annually, at the time of any significant change in job responsibility and following recognized and suspected exposures.

(4) Use employees who are adequately trained and experienced when conducting experiments or engaging in work with potential biological exposures at a BSL-1 or 2 and RG-1 or 2.

i. Meet the following criteria for work involving hazardous biological agents:

(1) Enroll employees working with human cells and tissues that are capable of transmitting disease in the BBP program.

(2) Provide medical support to ensure proper employee surveillance.

(3) Verify performance of proper hazard analysis and/or exposure assessment.

(4) Perform an annual review of all program elements, hazards, medical surveillance, training, etc.

j. Dispose of waste contaminated with biological agents and/or potentially infectious materials in accordance with the Center's infectious, biological, and/or hazardous waste disposal procedures and policies.

k. Prohibit use of and work with the following biological agents:

(1) Select agents and toxins. See Select Agents and Toxins, 42 CFR pt. 73, Possession, Use, and Transfer of Select Agents and Toxins, 7 CFR pt. 331, and Possession, Use, and Transfer of Select Agents and Toxins, 9 CFR pt. 121.

(2) Prions.

(3) BSL-3 and 4 agents.

(4) RG-3 and 4 agents.

4.11.2.3 Medical Directors shall:

a. Ensure clinics are cognizant of potential hazards encountered by employees working with biohazards to assure proper medical surveillance.

b. Evaluate affected employees’ previous and ongoing medical conditions, current medications, allergies (i.e., medicines, animals, and other environmental proteins) and prior immunizations.

c. Determine what medical services are needed to permit safe performance of the duties of the position.

4.11.2.4 EH organizations shall:

a. Review and approve all proposed facility designs and equipment purchases for use with biohazardous agents prior to their procurements.

b. Ensure an appropriate hazard analysis or exposure assessment has been performed.

c. Review and assess the knowledge and experience of the intended user.

d. Ensure safety inspection and certification of Biological Safety Cabinets and other containment devices before use and, at least annually, thereafter or more frequently if required by local authorities or recommended by the manufacturer to conform to the requirements of this section and NSF/ANSI 49, Biosafety Cabinets Design and Performance.

4.11.2.5 Supervisors shall:

a. Provide a description of the requirements, proposed tasks, and responsibilities of each position involving hazardous biological agents to the Medical Director to guide the medical evaluation and surveillance requirements.

b. Coordinate with EH professionals to identify the potential worksite biohazards.

c. Either complete or assist the EH organization in completing a hazard analysis or exposure assessment.

4.11.2.6 Employees working with biologically hazardous materials, agents, and/or animals, to include animal products, shall work under the policies and guidelines established by the Center's biosafety program.

4.12 Food Safety

4.12.1 General

4.12.1.1 OCHMO is the overall NASA authority for FS and coordinates such matters with outside agencies.

4.12.1.2 The FS requirements contained herein apply to all retail food establishments operated by NASA, NASA contractors, or vendors.

4.12.1.3 The FDA IFS17, Food Code, 2017 Recommendations of the United States Public Health Service, will be used as the basis for regulating retail FS at food establishments under NASA jurisdiction, unless otherwise noted. Where conflicts exist between the most recent FDA Food Code, this section, and any additional state or local food code requirements, where applicable, the one that lowers the risk of foodborne illness the most will be applied.

4.12.2 Responsibilities

4.12.2.1 The CHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on FS.

4.12.2.2 The OCHMO shall ensure FS policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular OH reviews.

4.12.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Protect the health of employees and others by controlling the risk factors for foodborne illness.

b. Ensure food is protected during all stages of production to assure that it is safe and unadulterated. This applies to the receiving, transporting, storing, preparing, serving, and vending of food provided. It also applies equally to all appropriated funded, non-appropriated funded, organizational, contractor, and/or catered food activities (defined in Appendix A, Definitions) held on Centers.

Note: When food is prepared, handled, stored, served, or consumed for personal use, office luncheons, and parties, the specific individual employees involved will be solely responsible for the FS aspects of those activities.

c. Develop and maintain written FS policy that:

(i) Implements and maintains effective FS programs consistent with the requirements stated herein and with current professional guidance from organizations such as FDA.

(ii) Assigns responsibility, accountability, and authority to pertinent Center organizations, departments, and employees.

(iii) Ensures prompt notification of a responsible individual in the event of an emergency resulting in conditions that could create an imminent hazard (e.g., fire, flood, extended interruption of electrical service or water service, sewage backup or a report of foodborne illness) or any other unsanitary occurrence/condition that might contaminate food and endanger employee health.

d. Serve and vend food at Centers from approved sources that are monitored and regulated under Federal, state, or local FS inspection programs

e. Ensure the requirements and provisions of this section are included in food and beverage services contracts and other applicable contracts/agreements.

f. Mitigate potential FS hazards by establishing a primary prevention approach to FS that encompasses planning and reviews of all proposed projects, processes, and procedures to mitigate potential FS hazards.

g. Ensure FS through the implementation of appropriate procedures, training, and active monitoring to reduce risk.

h. Notify the OCHMO of major FS incidents and other incidents related to food service or vending facilities, meeting the definition of reportable mishaps defined in NPR 8621.1, within 3 days and by the most expeditious means.

Note: A major FS incident constitutes any of the following or related events occurring at an establishment at NASA facilities on NASA property: a known poisoning resulting in hospitalization; two or more suspected poisonings; any known or suspected incident of food contamination resulting or potentially resulting in exposure to employees; or any similar or related incidents. All major FS incidents will be categorized and investigated, see NPR 8621.1.

i. Notify state and local health departments, the CDC, and/or the Department of Homeland Security, consistent with applicable reporting requirements, of foodborne disease outbreaks.

j. Accomplish FS measures established in the FDA Food Code through the implementation of active managerial controls using Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles and risk-based FS inspections (See FDA Food Code, Annex 5, Table 1, Risk Categorization of Food Establishments).

k. Impose constraints/controls upon substances/products/operations subject to the provisions of this section that are no less than those required by applicable regulatory authorities and include any additional special constraints deemed necessary by OCHMO because of unique or operational characteristics.

l. Ensure there is an effective and well communicated mechanism for employees to raise concerns about FS issues and concerns.

m. Ensure the FS program has an established system to detect, collect, investigate, and respond to complaints and emergencies that involve foodborne illness, injury, and intentional and unintentional food contamination.

n. Ensure that vermin are controlled through an IPM program that integrates housekeeping, maintenance, and pest control services to prevent the creation of a health hazard to humans. The IPM program will be site specific and tailored to food establishment operations.

o. Ensure communication with all stakeholder organizations on matters concerning FS.

p. Ensure organizations operating vending machines that dispense Temperature Controlled for Safety (TCS) food or beverages provide the EH office with a list of onsite vending machines and their locations.

4.12.2.4 EH offices shall:

a. Coordinate with appropriate employees and stakeholders, and approve in advance, all new and redesigned facilities and changes to meet the principles outlined in state and local codes, where applicable, and the FDA Food Code.

b. Ensure FS inspectors are included in the procurement of food establishment equipment and provide recommendations concerning FS provisions.

c. Work with the Center’s Exchange and food vendors to determine the best ways to ensure retail food establishments (see Appendix A, Definition) develop procedures, effectively train their associates, and verify that all procedures are being implemented.

d. Identify and provide support concerning certification and training requirements for food managers and food handlers.

e. Establish inspection protocol to ensure uniformity among inspection staff in interpretation and application of laws, regulations, policies, and procedures.

f. Ensure food establishments implement FS management plans that incorporate active managerial controls using HACCP principles, training requirements, hygiene standards, cleaning and sanitary practices, illness reporting agreements, food hazards of significance, monitoring procedures, recordkeeping, CA processes, and proper certification of food service employees.

g. Ensure FS Program elements are implemented and maintained.

h. Conduct a program of continuing inspection and surveillance of all food establishments focusing on the status of risk factors, compliance with FS principles and good practices, and immediate- and long-term correction of out-of-control risk factors through active managerial control.

i. Ensure that FS inspectors have the knowledge, skills, and ability to adequately perform their required duties.

j. Perform unannounced onsite, risk-based FS inspections of food establishments as recommended by the FDA Food Code, Annex 5, Table 1, that include:

(1) Identification and assessment of the hazards and associated risks.

(2) Determination and implementation of Critical Control Points (CCP), Critical Limits (CL), and procedures necessary to reduce risk of foodborne illness.

(3) Determination of active managerial controls through the use of HACCP principles.

k. Ensure food establishments correct inspection violations in a reasonable length of time and track to closure with documentation verifying the violation was adequately addressed.

l. Ensure the review of plans by FS inspectors for temporary events that involve food and provide recommendations concerning FS provisions.

m. Provide consultation in the preparation of state and/or local permit applications for food service activities, where applicable.

n. Ensure that senior management is routinely apprised of the status of major FS incidents.

o. Ensure FS records are generated, retained, and disposed of in accordance with EH records requirements found in NPR 1441.1.

4.12.2.5 Food Establishment Operators shall:

a. Develop a FS plan that:

(1) Implements active managerial controls through the use of HACCP principles and methodology.

(2) Focuses on self-inspection and continuous improvement.

(3) Considers unique conditions within each facility.

(4) Includes procedures relating to food employee reporting agreements designed to ensure that FS employees notify the food manager when experiencing any symptoms of illness transmissible through food.

(5) Includes procedures for the clean-up of vomiting and diarrheal events for employees.

(6) Identifies potential hazards of significance and includes preventive measures to ensure and improve FS.

(7) Addresses how deficiencies noted on food safety inspections will be corrected in a reasonable amount of time.

b. Provide for the purposeful incorporation of specific actions or procedures into the operation of food service establishments to attain control over foodborne illness risk factors (e.g., CCPs and CLs).

c. Ensure all food handlers report to a physician when any symptoms of infections and/or communicable diseases are present.

d. Ensure food handlers annually sign employee reporting agreements to immediately report symptoms of illness that may be transmissible through food to their supervisor.

Note: The FDA Food Code provides Form 1-B Conditional Employee or Food Employee Reporting Agreement which can be used by Centers for this requirement.

e. Ensure all food handlers returning to work after an illness-related absence associated with any of the conditions below are medically cleared.

(1) A diagnosed illness of norovirus, typhoid fever (salmonella typhi), shigellosis (shigella spp.), e. coli O157:H7 infection (or other EHEC/STEC (enterohemorrhagic or shiga toxin-producing e. coli), or hepatitis A virus (hepatitis A) or nontyphoidal salmonella.

(2) Symptoms of gastrointestinal illness such as diarrhea, fever, vomiting, jaundice, or sore throat with fever.

(3) A lesion, boil, or wound containing pus that is open or draining and is located on the hands, wrists, or exposed portions of arms.

(4) Illness from consuming food that was implicated in or caused an outbreak.

f. Ensure training is provided to maintain any certification requirements food service managers/food handlers may need.

g. Ensure all food handlers receive refresher training on a routine basis to ensure FS principles and practices are reinforced.

h. Ensure all food items in vending machines suspected to be contaminated, unwholesome, out-of-date, or otherwise deemed unfit for consumption are removed from service or sale.

i. Maintain accurate and complete survey and inspection data records for the last three months or last three inspections, whichever time span is greater, and have them available for review by FS inspectors and food establishment customers.

j. Ensure records are available for review by the OCHMO and Federal, state, and/or local FS inspectors. These include applicable training records, inspection records, cold and hot holding logs, cooking temperature logs, cooling logs, food receiving logs, maintenance logs, sanitizer concentration logs, and dishwasher temperature logs.

k. Ensure the most recent inspection report is prominently posted for customers to view or a sign/placard notifying customers that inspectional information is available for review.

l. Maintain copies of state and/or local permits, and associated records.

4.12.3 Farmers Markets

4.12.3.1 Cottage foods and produce are the only foods that can be sold by farmers market vendors on NASA property. Foods that may not be sold include:

a. Fish or other aquatic species.

b. Livestock, a livestock product, or livestock by-product.

c. Planting seed.

d. Poultry, a poultry product, or poultry by-product.

e. Wildlife processed for food or by-products.

f. A time/TCS food made from a product described in this paragraph by a farmer or other producer who grew or processed the product.

4.12.3.2 Responsibilities

a. Centers shall hold farmers market vendors offering produce samples (e.g., cut fruits and vegetables) to state and local retail FS requirements, where applicable.

b. FS inspectors shall:

(a) Conduct appropriate inspections at farmers markets.

(b) Ensure produce vendors are managing the risk factors for FS appropriately.

(c) Ensure produce and cottage foods vendors are following all applicable state and local codes.

c. Market managers shall:

(a) Ensure FS through the implementation of appropriate agreements, communication, and active monitoring to reduce risk when operating on NASA property.

(b) Prior to participating at the farmers market, obtain from cottage food vendors:

(1) A product list of cottage foods the vendor plans to offer at the farmers market.

(2) Required state and local certifications, registrations, or licenses to operate cottage food kitchens.

(3) A vendor-signed agreement to operate following FS practices and applicable state cottage food laws and other applicable state and local codes.

d. Ensure all cottage foods sold at the farmers market are allowed by applicable state and local cottage food laws.

e. Ensure all cottage foods sold at the farmers market are labelled according to applicable state and local cottage food laws. Typically, this signage informs customers of where the food comes from and that the operation is not subject to the state FS regulations.

f. Prior to participating at the farmers market, obtain from farmers or their representative (produce vendors):

(1) A product list of produce the vendor plans on offering for sale.

(2) Required state and local certifications, registrations, or licenses.

(3) A vendor-signed agreement to operate following FS practices and applicable state and local codes.

g. Inform employees participating in farmers markets through signage or messaging that the food from the markets may come from an operation not necessarily covered by the more stringent United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) or FDA FS regulations or other state and local codes.

h. Coordinate with the appropriate safety office regarding the safe set up of vendor space regarding generators, cords, etc.

i. Establish a policy for ensuring food waste and garbage is appropriately handled and removed at the end of the market designating whether the farmers market vendors or NASA is responsible for handling waste removal. Part of this policy will include pest control and how it is handled since the food or waste may attract pests such as bees or flies.

4.12.4 Food Trucks

4.12.4.1 Centers shall hold food truck operations to state and local retail FS requirements, where applicable, and requirements contained in this section of NPR 1800.1.

4.12.4.2 Exchanges or EH Offices shall:

a. Ensure FS of food trucks through the implementation of appropriate agreements outlining the requirements of this section.

b. Prior to a food truck being allowed on Center, notify the Center’s fire protection office to inspect the truck for fire safety risks related to cooking operations, portable generators, use of propane, and proper fire suppression systems for the types of operations conducted.

c. Prior to a food truck being allowed on Center, obtain copies of the following and check for currency (based on state and local regulations, where applicable):

(1) Vendor’s business license to operate.

(2) Vehicle license (the truck itself and its drivers).

(3) Manager/handler food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe or equivalent).

(4) Health department permit verifying inspection by the local health department.

(5) A copy of menu items offered.

4.12.4.3 FS inspectors shall:

a. Ensure a risk-based approach to food truck inspections.

b. Conduct food truck inspections prior to initial service. If concerns are noted during inspections, more frequent inspections may be warranted based on findings.

c. Recommend to Center leadership the removal of any vendor found to have foods arrive in a manner that is considered unsafe.

d. Focus inspection on the following FS risk factors:

(1) Proper handwashing with handwashing sign posted.

(2) Use of gloves when handling food.

(3) Food from approved sources (such as a retail grocery store that’s properly licensed for food processing).

(4) Foods kept at safe temperatures (i.e., cooking and cold and hot holding).

(5) No occurrence of cross-contamination between raw and cooked products.

(6) Labeling and date marking of time-temperature control for safety foods.

(7) Good housekeeping (e.g., properly cleaned floors, walls, ceilings, food contact surfaces, etc.).

4.13 Radiation, General

4.13.1 General

4.13.1.1 This section outlines the requirements to minimize the negative impact that exposures to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation can have on employee health.

4.13.1.2 Occupational exposures to ionizing radiation from radioactive materials and limiting the release of radioactive materials into the environment should be maintained ALARA.

4.13.1.3 Occupational exposure to naturally occurring radon are maintained ALARA.

4.13.1.4 Occupational exposure to non-ionizing radiation is maintained ALARP.

4.13.2 Responsibilities

4.13.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on radiation and ensure Center radiation policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.13.2.2 The SEHO shall recommend Agency-level radiation policy and requirements to the CHMO.

4.13.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Maintain and preserve the radiological health of their workforce by minimizing occupational exposures, eliminating unnecessary exposures, and reducing the potential for accidental exposures to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

Note: The OSMA maintains purview concerning the launching of Radioactive Material (RAM), as documented in NPR 8715.26, Nuclear Flight Safety, except in cases where OSMA has specifically issued a determination that the type and quantity of RAM poses insufficient risk to the public to warrant an OSMA-based nuclear flight safety review. In these cases, OCHMO maintains purview.

b. Ensure exposures to ionizing radiation are maintained ALARA and exposures to non-ionizing radiation are maintained ALARP.

c. Ensure occupational exposure to naturally occurring radon are maintained ALARA.

d. Achieve the ALARA objective using active managerial controls, safe operating procedures, appropriate equipment, a comprehensive maintenance and surveillance program, adequate shielding and distance, and/or limiting employee exposure time.

e. Achieve ALARP by using the same concepts of ALARA while using every reasonable effort to maintain exposures as low as is practical, consistent with budgetary and operation constraints, but never exceeding legal or consensus OELs.

f. Designate in writing competent and qualified approval authorities to administer radiation protection programs (e.g., Radiation Safety Officer (RSO), Radiation Safety Committee (RSC), and Laser Safety Officer (LSO)).

g. Have centralized control and accountability over sources of potentially hazardous ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

h. Ensure compliance with applicable Federal, state, and local requirements through independent QA checks.

i. Ensure adequate employees, facilities, equipment, training, and operational and emergency controls are maintained for all operations utilizing ionizing or non-ionizing radiation.

j. Ensure that radiation sources are used safely and in accordance with written procedures based on sound radiation protection and engineering principles.

4.13.2.4 Centers in which operations exist that expose employees or the public to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation shall:

a. Administer a comprehensive radiation protection program to identify and control those radiation exposures in accordance with this section.

b. Implement radiation protection programs by written procedures and review the programs and procedures annually to evaluate their content and effective implementation as per Center annual OH review requirements found in chapter 7.

c. Provide training according to the following criteria:

(1) Training will be commensurate with the potential hazards and provided prior to unescorted access to restricted areas and prior to receiving occupational exposure.

(2) Initial and recurrent training will provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for maintaining radiation employees’ doses below applicable limits.

(3) Training will provide employees with an understanding of the risks associated with radiation and the means for recognizing and addressing workplace hazards that may lead to increased risks. NRC, Regulatory Guide 8.29, Instruction Concerning Risks from Occupational Radiation Exposure, describes the instruction that should be provided to the employee concerning biological risks from occupational radiation exposure.

(4) A declared pregnant employee will be provided with the information contained in the NRC, Regulatory Guide 8.13, Instruction Concerning Prenatal Radiation Exposure. Once an employee declares pregnancy, the information should also be provided to any employee or supervisor who may be affected by a declaration of pregnancy or who may have to take action in response to such a declaration.

d. Ensure only persons qualified by training are authorized to use potentially hazardous ionizing or non-ionizing radiation.

e. Conduct medical surveillance in accordance with chapter 2 of this document.

f. Ensure a comprehensive inventory of all hazardous ionizing and non-ionizing radiation sources be completed and verified annually.

g. Ensure a formalized approval process based on hazards analyses be implemented prior to the authorization of any source of hazardous ionizing and/or non-ionizing radiation (e.g., use authorization or use permit).

h. Eliminate hazards to employees by engineering design to the maximum extent practicable.

i. Develop procedures and/or provide equipment to mitigate hazards that cannot be eliminated by engineering design.

j. Conduct work activities as specified by the controlling, written authorization.

k. Ensure sources of potentially hazardous ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, whether in use or in storage, be controlled and secured from unauthorized access or removal according to the following criteria:

(1) Controls will be commensurate with the hazards and provide flexibility for consideration of other hazards (e.g., industrial safety, IH, environmental hazards).

(2) Use and storage locations will afford adequate safety and security.

(3) Restricted areas will be established and posted to warn individuals that they are entering areas controlled for radiation protection purposes. Access will be limited to authorized employees.

(4) Activities involving ionizing or non-ionizing radiation determined to be a threat to health or property will be immediately terminated.

l. Develop and maintain written operating, maintenance, service, and emergency procedures and use authorizing documentation with ionizing or non-ionizing radiation sources for easily accessible reference. These procedures and procedural controls will be commensurate with the hazards, activity, and the education, training, and skills of the individuals who may be exposed to the hazards.

m. Designate a competent person, trained to evaluate and document the magnitude and extent of radiation emissions and potential radiological hazards and to verify the efficacy of controls and procedures, to perform surveillance and monitoring of approved facilities, equipment, and operations in accordance with the following specifications:

(1) Surveillance and monitoring will be conducted at least annually based on applicable regulatory requirements and license conditions and be commensurate with the potential for changes in the radiation fields and the potential magnitude of the changes.

(2) Instrumentation used to perform radiation surveys will be capable of accurately measuring the types of radiation at the dose rates and under the environmental conditions that may be encountered.

(3) Instruments and equipment used for quantitative radiation measurements will be calibrated for the radiation measured at intervals not to exceed 12 months or per the manufacturer's recommendation.

(4) When components affecting the radiation safety of a system are serviced or replaced, a qualified expert will perform a survey of the installations to ensure continuity of adequate radiation safety.

(5) Surveillance and monitoring results will be evaluated and investigations initiated to resolve unexpected results.

n. Ensure exposures to ionizing and non-ionizing radiation in excess of the applicable regulatory limits are reported by the most expeditious means to the appropriate regulatory authorities according to the regulations and to the SEHO.

o. Ensure records are maintained to document conformance to this section, applicable regulations and standards, and with the provisions of Center's radiation protection programs. Unless otherwise specified in this section, retain records until final disposition is authorized in accordance with section 1.10.

4.14 Radioactive Materials

4.14.1 General

4.14.1.1 This section outlines the requirements to minimize the negative impact exposures to radioactive materials can have on employee health.

4.14.1.2 Occupational exposures to radioactive materials are maintained ALARA.

4.14.1.3 Occupational exposure to naturally occurring radon are maintained ALARP.

4.14.2 Responsibilities

4.14.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on radioactive materials and ensure Center radioactive materials policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.14.2.2 Center Senior Management shall designate in writing, competent and qualified employees (i.e., RSO and RSC) to administer a program for control and accountability of radioactive materials.

4.14.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Control the receipt, use, storage, or transfer of radioactive materials, or equipment containing radioactive materials subject to NRC or Agreement state licensing. Coordinate with DOE on the control, receipt, use, storage, or transfer of radioactive materials, or equipment containing radioactive materials, for DOE owned assets (e.g., major radiological source missions).

b. Coordinate procurement, use, transfer, and disposal of radioactive materials with the designated radiation protection competent approval authority (e.g., RSO and RSC).

c. Maintain employee exposures to ionizing radiation ALARA. Employee exposures will not be permitted to exceed applicable Federal or state regulatory limits except in the event of extreme emergency, as defined by relevant and applicable regulations and controls.

4.14.2.4 Centers with operations potentially exposing employees or the public to ionizing radiation from radioactive materials shall:

a. Control the receipt, use, storage, or transfer of radioactive materials, or equipment containing radioactive materials subject to NRC or Agreement state licensing. If applicable, for DOE assets in a Center’s possession, coordinate with DOE in the control, receipt, use, storage, or transfer of radioactive materials, or equipment containing radioactive materials.

b. Develop written procedures to identify and control those radiation exposures in accordance with this section and the appropriate paragraphs of section 4.13.

c. To accomplish NASA's objective of maintaining individual doses below regulatory limits and ALARA, establish administrative control levels below the regulatory dose limits.

d. Include reasonable controls directed toward reducing exposure, preventing the spread of radiological contamination, and minimizing the generation of contaminated wastes and the release of effluents for all operations and activities.

e. Use a National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) accredited processor to process personal dosimeters that require processing to determine the radiation dose and are used to comply with the individual monitoring requirement for external doses. RSOs should consult with their NVLAP-accredited processor for its recommendation for exchange frequency and proper use of the dosimeter.

f. For purposes of assessing doses used to determine compliance with occupational dose equivalent limits, when required, take suitable and timely air measurements of radioactive materials in work areas; or quantities of radionuclides in the body; or quantities of radionuclides excreted from the body, or combinations of these measurements.

g. Comply with ANSI/HPS N43.3, For General Radiation Safety - Installations Using Non-Medical X-Ray and Sealed Gamma-Ray Sources, Energies up to 10 MeV, when using irradiation facilities with non-medical x-ray and sealed gamma-ray sources.

h. Meet the following criteria for operations involving radioactive materials:

(1) Control of radioactive contamination will be achieved by using engineering controls and employee performance to contain contamination at the source, reducing existing areas of contamination, and promptly decontaminating areas that become contaminated.

(2) Contaminated surfaces will be controlled in a manner commensurate with the physical and chemical characteristics of the contaminant, the radionuclides present, and the fixed and removable contamination levels.

(3) Contamination levels caused by ongoing work will be monitored and maintained ALARA.

(4) Contamination found in unrestricted areas will be immediately decontaminated to background levels. When it is not possible to get to background levels, the contamination levels listed in the governing NRC or Agreement state issued specific materials license documents are not to be exceeded. Surface Contamination Values, 10 CFR pt. 835, Appendix D, are applicable where contamination limits are not specified under NRC or Agreement state issued specific materials license documents.

(5) When equipment or facilities that are potentially contaminated are to be released for unrestricted use, the requirements in paragraph) 4.14.2.4.h(4) provide the maximum acceptable residual levels. To the extent practicable, it is appropriate to decontaminate to below these levels. Surface contamination surveys should be conducted for both removable and fixed contamination before these facilities or equipment are released from restricted to unrestricted use to ensure that they meet these limits.

(6) A standardized method for smear testing of a relatively uniform area should be used to aid in comparing contamination at different times and places. A smear taken from an area of about 100 cm2 is acceptable to indicate levels of removable contamination.

i. Ensure smoking, eating, and drinking are prohibited in restricted areas.

4.14.2.5 RSO and/or RSC shall oversee ionizing radiation safety, approve radioactive material usage, ensure activities involving radioactive materials are conducted in accordance with applicable requirements, and take prompt corrective measures to appropriately manage or control hazards.

4.15 Ionizing Radiation-Generating Equipment

4.15.1 General

This section outlines the requirements to minimize the negative impact that exposures to ionizing radiation-generating equipment can have on employee health.

4.15.2 Responsibilities

4.15.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on ionizing radiation-generating equipment and ensure ionizing radiation-generating equipment policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.15.2.2 Center senior management shall designate, in writing, competent and qualified employees (i.e., RSO and RSC) to administer a program for control and accountability of radiation-generating equipment.

4.15.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Institute radiation protection requirements for electronic radiation-generating equipment (e.g., x-ray machine and particle beams) and equipment that produces radiation incidental to its operation (e.g., electron microscope).

b. Ensure procurement, use, transfer, and disposal of radiation-generating equipment is coordinated with the designated radiation protection competent approval authority (e.g., RSO and RSC).

4.15.2.4 Centers with operations potentially exposing employees or the public to ionizing radiation from radiation-generating equipment shall:

a. Develop written policies and procedures to identify and control those exposures in accordance with this section.

b. To accomplish NASA's objective of maintaining individual doses below regulatory limits and ALARA, establish administrative control levels below the regulatory dose limits.

c. Use a NVLAP-accredited processor to process personal dosimeters that require processing to determine the radiation dose and are used to comply with the individual monitoring requirement for external doses. Center RSOs should consult with their NVLAP-accredited processor for its recommendation for exchange frequency and proper use of the dosimeter.

d. Meet the following criteria for all radiation-generating equipment:

(1) Procurement, use, transfer, and disposal will be pre-approved by the RSO or RSC.

(2) Design and operation of irradiation facilities using non-medical x-ray will comply with ANSI/HPS N43.3 with amendments and changes through most recent reaffirmation.

(3) Design and operation of installations using x-ray diffraction and fluorescence analysis equipment will comply with the requirements contained in ANSI/HPS N43.2 Radiation Safety for X-ray Diffraction and Fluorescence Analysis Equipment, and with amendments and changes through most recent reaffirmation.

(4) Certified cabinet x-ray systems will be surveyed at intervals not to exceed 12 months to ensure conformance with Federal performance standards.

(5) Diagnostic x-ray systems will be surveyed at intervals not to exceed 24 months to ensure conformance with Federal performance standards.

(6) Diagnostic x-ray systems will be operated in accordance with a Recommendation for Quality Assurance Programs in Diagnostic Radiology Facilities, 21 CFR § 1000.55 conforming quality assurance program.

(7) Special considerations for particle accelerator or other high dose rate operations will include the presence of extremely high dose rates, high energy and heavy particles, activation products, ozone generation, and detection and monitoring difficulties associated with pulsed or high energy radiation.

4.15.2.5 RSOs and/or RSCs shall:

a. Oversee ionizing radiation safety.

b. Approve radiation generating equipment usage.

c. Ensure activities involving radiation generating equipment are conducted in accordance with applicable OSHA, state, and Agency requirements.

d. Take prompt corrective measures to appropriately manage or control hazards.

4.16 Laser and Non-Laser Optical Radiation

4.16.1 General

4.16.1.1 This section outlines the requirements to minimize the negative impact that exposures to laser and non-laser optical radiation can have on employee health.

4.16.1.2 The Laser Safety Review Board (LSRB) is the final review body for all NASA sponsored, (to include NASA’s International Partners), outdoor Over the Horizon (OTH) laser operations in support of current and future NASA programs. Their purview includes laser safety concurrence for use of lasers in space, space to ground, ground and sea based, and airborne laser missions. The review is specific to those that have the potential to interfere with air traffic and crew, space assets, or pose a hazard to employees or the public, to ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and adherence to exposure limits.

4.16.2 Responsibilities

4.16.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on laser and non-laser optical radiation and ensure laser and non-laser optical radiation programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews. The OCHMO also resolves conflicts between Centers and states, the U.S. Military, and other Federal agencies.

4.16.2.2 Center senior management shall designate in writing, a competent and qualified person (i.e., LSO and RSO) to administer a program for control and accountability of laser and non-laser optical radiation sources, on behalf of the government, which:

(1) Oversees laser and non-laser optical radiation source safety.

(2) Approves laser and non-laser optical radiation source usage, including use locations.

(3) Ensures activities involving laser and non-laser optical radiation sources are conducted in accordance with Federal, state, and Agency requirements.

(4) Takes prompt corrective measures to eliminate hazards.

4.16.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Institute radiation protection requirements for laser and non-laser optical radiation-generating equipment (i.e., ultraviolet, infrared, and high-intensity lights) at Centers.

b. Coordinate procurement, use, transfer, and disposal of hazardous non-ionizing radiation-generating equipment with the designated radiation protection competent approval authority (e.g., LSO, RSO, and RSC).

c. Comply with the following:

(1) Maximum Permissible Exposure Limits (MPEL) for laser radiation specified in ANSI Z136.1 American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers, and as applicable, comply with the ANSI Z136 standards (e.g., ANSI Z136.2, 3, 6, and 8).

(2) The ANSI Z136.6, Safe Use of Lasers Outdoors and NASA specific requirements for OTH laser operations. (See section 4.16.4 for additional information on NASA outdoor laser use requirements).

(3) The OELs for non-laser optical radiation specified in the ACGIH, Threshold Limit Values for Chemical Substances and Physical Agents & Biological Exposure Indices.

d. Coordinate exemptions for standards using FDA’s Exemptions from Electronic Product Regulations, A Compilation of Exemptions for Electronic Production Found in 21 CFR Chapter I, Sub-Chapter J – Radiological Health Parts 1000 - 1050.

4.16.2.4 Centers with operations potentially exposing employees or the public to laser or hazardous non-laser optical radiation shall:

a. Procure or manufacture only laser products that comply with Performance Standards for Light-Emitting Products, 21 CFR pt. 1040, except for lasers used in research, unless a specific exemption is obtained from the FDA.

Note: Lasers should be reclassified in accordance with ANSI Z136.1 when the laser beam output parameters are modified from those provided by the manufacturer (lasers and general laser products or systems). The laser proponent should perform a QA verification to include laser parameters that include wavelength, radiant power, energy, pulse width, pulse repetition frequency, and beam divergence.

b. Develop written procedures to identify and control radiation exposures in accordance with this section and applicable paragraphs of section 4.13. Base requirements on accessible emission levels and ancillary non-beam hazards.

c. Train employees working with Class 3B and 4 lasers and hazardous sources of non-laser optical radiation in safe work practices for controlling or mitigating personal exposures.

Note: The level of training will be commensurate with the degree of potential laser hazards, both from the laser radiation and non-beam hazards. If planned use could potentially exceed MPELs of Class 1M, Class 2, Class 2M and Class 3R, provide training.

d. Ensure laser safety training include warnings against the misuse of lasers.

e. Require a hazard assessment and approval authorization by the LSO and/or Laser Safety Committee (LSC), for all Class 3B and 4 lasers and laser systems, whether indoors or outdoors.

f. Ensure hazards to employees are eliminated, or procedures developed, and equipment provided to control those hazards that cannot be eliminated by engineering design prior to source approval.

g. Employ protective measures to ensure employees are not exposed to laser and non-laser optical radiation in excess of the MPE limits.

h. During periods of service or maintenance, implement control measures appropriate to the class of the embedded laser when the engineering controls are removed (e.g., beam enclosures and interlocks) and beam access is possible. Service and maintenance functions may require access to hazardous laser radiation not accessible during the laser systems intended use (operation).

4.16.4 Outdoor Laser Operations

4.16.4.1 Centers shall:

a. Ensure all outdoor lasers comply with the applicable requirements of the OCHMO chartered LSRB, in addition to ANSI Z136.6.

b. Coordinate outdoor laser details, anytime operating lasers in unrestricted airspace, and request a Letter of Determination (LoD) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prior to propagation of the related mission’s laser beam through the U.S. navigable airspace.

c. Coordinate with, and obtain permission from, the controlling authority (e.g., military base command), when operating lasers in restricted airspace.

d. Ensure against inadvertent laser emissions and mitigate potential catastrophic events, when operating lasers in restricted or unrestricted airspace, but utilizing a combination of safety measures, such as, but not limited to:

(1) A combination of interlocks and high-speed shutdown systems, as deemed necessary by engineering analyses.

(2) Considerations and other examples of safety measures are found in the SAE International standards (e.g., ARP5293, Safety Considerations for Lasers Projected in the Navigable Airspace).

e. Review existing software systems to assure that safety precautions are provided. If software that is deemed safety-critical is used in conjunction with lasers, it is subject to software safety analysis requirements. See NASA-STD-8739.8, Software Assurance and Software Safety Standard.

f. Coordinate laser mission details for DoD owned, funded, or operated land, air, sea or space-based systems, conducting lasing operations in space or intending to direct energy above the horizon, with, and obtain permission from the U.S. Strategic Command Laser Clearinghouse (USSCLCH) under authority issued by the Joint Force Space Command Component prior to propagation of the related mission's laser beam. Refer to DoD Instruction 3100.11, Management of Laser Illumination of Objects in Space, for detailed description of coordination.

Note: Some satellites have sensitive detectors that can be damaged by intense laser sources originating from Earth. The USSCLCH can determine if a laser has the potential for interference or damage to satellites. When operating unterminated lasers that have a very small divergence and can pose high irradiance for fluence values at high altitudes, it may be necessary to deconflict potential issues with satellites by contacting the USSCLCH. Center LSOs should determine if laser meets this criterion.

4.16.4.2 The LSRB shall:

a. Make recommendations to the CHMO on matters related to outdoor laser use and review the use of all lasers that propagate intentionally over the horizon (OTH), without a backstop, into navigable airspace (air to ground, ground to air), space (space to ground, ground to space, and space to space), that have the potential to negatively impact the public, employees, NASA assets, or aircraft crew.

b. Honor objections, verbal or written, to the use of specific outdoor lasers by the FAA or the U.S. Military, until the LSRB reviews the complaint and decides on continuation of operations.

c. Review any previously grandfathered or concurred outdoor laser system(s) whenever conditions change that negate an issued FAA LoD. Examples of these changes include increased level of exposure to the public, employees, flight crew, space and ground assets, or changes to a flight track.

d. Review and concur /non-concur with new FAA LoD(s) or written correspondences of non-objection that are submitted.

4.16.4.3 The LSO and/or LSC shall:

a. Prepare a hazard evaluation package and submit to the LSRB for review and concurrence. This package, at a minimum, will contain the following documentation:

(1) Center pre-approved laser safety plan and use permit/use authorization (LSO and/or LSC approval prior to use).

(2) FAA Form 7140-1, Notice of Proposed Outdoor Laser Operation(s), and FAA LoDs for each laser (as applicable).

(3) USSCLCH centralized laser deconfliction authorization (as required).

(4) A comprehensive hazard evaluation report of the laser system. The report will include:

(a) A deterministic hazard evaluation based upon anticipated exposure levels relative to established safety exposure limits, MPEs.

(b) Wavelength effects region, visual and retinal hazard regions, extended sources, reflections (specular and diffuse), atmospheric effects, visual interference levels, protection distances Nominal Ocular Hazard Distance, visual interference distance, protection zones Nominal Hazard Zone, visual interference zones, and optical density for laser eye protection or windows.

(c) Accessible Emission Limit levels for unaided (naked eye), and likely anticipated common aided viewing (binoculars and telescopes), as applicable to mission.

b. Provide updated FAA LoD(s) for previously reviewed and LSRB concurred laser systems, including grandfathered existing laser systems, to the LSRB, when updated and issued.

4.17 Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Radiation

4.17.1 General

4.17.1.1 This section outlines the requirements to minimize the negative impact that exposures to electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation can have on employee health.

Note: The recommendations in Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) C95.1 may not prevent interference with medical and implantable electronic devices that may be susceptible to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI). The recipient and provider of these devices should be aware of the potential for hazards and precautions that might be necessary with such devices while working around EMI. Refer to the employee’s medical practitioner and/or the manufacturer of the device for limit precautions. Examples of such devices where there are concerns for interactions include pacemakers, defibrillators, drug delivery pumps, neuro-stimulators, hearing aids, powered wheelchairs and AEDs. The ACGIH offers static magnetic field exposure limit guidelines for medical implant device wearers in the TLVs and Biological Exposure Indices document.

4.17.1.2 Apart from the negligible potential non-ionizing radiation hazard characteristically represented by devices or sources that are considered below the potential for hazardous exposure threshold under the conditions of normal use, non-ionizing radiation exposures should be maintained ALARP.

4.17.2 Responsibilities

4.17.2.1 The OCHMO shall provide guidance and advice to Centers on electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation and ensure electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation policy and programs are assessed for efficacy through regular periodic reviews.

4.17.2.2 Center senior management shall designate competent and qualified employees (e.g., Radio Frequency Safety Officer (RFSO) and RSO) to administer a program for control and accountability of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation devices, who:

a. Oversee electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation safety.

b. Approve hazardous electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation equipment usage.

c. Ensure activities involving electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation equipment are conducted in accordance with applicable OSHA, Federal Communications Commission, state, and Agency requirements.

d. Take prompt corrective measures to eliminate hazards.

4.17.2.3 Centers shall:

a. Comply with the limits for IEEE C95.1, IEEE Standard for Safety Levels with Respect to Human Exposure to Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields, 0 Hz to 300 GHz.

b. Institute radiation protection requirements for electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation-generating equipment.

c. Coordinate procurement, use, transfer, and disposal of hazardous electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation-generating equipment with the designated radiation protection competent approval authority (e.g., RFSO, LSO, RSO and RSC).

Note: All RF-related procurements (radio-based communications systems; wireless systems, which include Local Area Networks, Wireless Access Point, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, walkie-talkies, and wireless microphone; active or passive remote-sensing systems; all systems employing satellite (space) communication or transmission/receiving systems; and any associated Earth-station sites and facilities) should be made with the approval of the applicable Center/facility spectrum manager and in compliance with Federal and NASA policies, including NPR 2570.1C, NASA Radio Frequency (RF) Spectrum Management Manual.

d. Implement an RF safety program, such as described in IEEE C95.7, IEEE Recommended Practice for Radio Frequency Safety Programs, 0 Hz to 300 GHz, whenever the lower tier Dosimetric Reference Levels (DRL), or corresponding Exposure Reference Levels (ERL), can be exceeded. This is the Safety Program Initiation Level (SPIL).

e. Implement radiation protection requirements to prevent or control potential risks associated with exposure to electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields that operate in the frequency range of 0 Hertz (Hz) and 300 Gigahertz (GHz). This includes but is not limited to radar systems, spacecraft and vehicle telemetry and communications systems, Earth stations, microwave diathermy units, RF generators, and RF heat sealers.

Note: Hazards of electromagnetic radiation to ordnance are documented in NASA-STD-8719.12, Safety Standard for Explosives, Propellants, and pyrotechnics.

f. Identify restricted environments via an exposure assessment.

(1) For persons in unrestricted environments, the lower tier exposure levels will not be exceeded.

(2) For persons permitted in restricted environments, the upper tier exposure levels will not be exceeded.

g. Develop written procedures to identify, document, and control those radiation exposures in accordance with IEEE C95.7.

h. Ensure techniques and instrumentation for the measurement and computation of potentially hazardous electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation both in the near field and the far field of a RF/microwave transmitting source, including contact voltage and contact and induced currents (as applicable) are in accordance with IEEE C95.3, IEEE Recommended Practice for Measurements and Computations of Electric, Magnetic, and Electromagnetic Fields with Respect to Human Exposure to Such Fields, 0 Hz to 300 GHz.

i. Ensure all employees with exposures likely to exceed the SPIL are appropriately trained in safe work practices for controlling or mitigating personal exposures.

j. Ensure exposures, of the general public and employees who do not have occupational duties requiring them to enter into RF-restricted environments (controlled), are kept below SPIL for unrestricted areas as specified in IEEE C95.1.

k. Follow the applicable safety program guidance and procedures where higher ERLs and DRLs are applicable for all exposures of employees who are permitted in restricted (controlled) environments.

l. Provide initial and recurrent training to employees who are permitted to work in restricted (controlled) environments and cover the hazards of exposure; safe work practices; concepts of time-averaged exposure; and the methods to reduce, eliminate, or mitigate the hazards.

m. Base electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation equipment approvals and controls on documented exposure assessments, which include direct measurements when practicable.

n. Provide employees with exposure assessments and specific information from surveys or computations and guidance to prevent exposure greater than the restricted (upper tier) exposure limit.

o. Ensure operations and activities include reasonable controls directed toward reducing exposure. Such controls include engineering and administrative controls as well as the use of PPE, placement of appropriate electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic safety signage, designation of restricted access areas, and electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic radiation safety awareness training.

p. Maintain the beam height of RF and microwave transmitters at a level that does not intercept occupied facilities or structures, or employees within the identified hazard distance.

4.17.3 Program Devices and Sources Below Hazardous Thresholds

4.17.3.1 A variety of commercially available consumer, business, and industrial application electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields radiation devices are considered below the potential for hazardous exposure threshold under the conditions of normal use. These sources should be considered for exemption from a Center’s radiation protection program use authorization because of their negligible potential for exposure and their common use by consumers and NASA. The following general categories of electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields radiation devices are considered below hazardous thresholds:

a. Devices with transmitter power of seven watts or less and an antenna gain of unity (two-way radios, car phones, cellular phones).

b. Speed monitoring devices (radar guns).

c. Automotive radar detectors.

d. Electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields radiation devices operated in a completely enclosed configuration where no open-air transmission is possible.

e. Electric, magnetic, and electromagnetic fields radiation devices designed to operate in a hard-lined, closed loop configuration where no open-air transmission is possible.

f. Devices or systems which have no reasonable possibility or have been shown by documented worst case analysis that they are incapable of emitting radiation levels greater than applicable DRLs and ERLs, based on transmitter power, gain, and frequency.

4.17.3.2 Exemptions are valid for the general categories of equipment, instruments, and systems identified by Paragraph 4.17.4.1 of this section provided that:

a. The individual item is maintained in its original design configuration and used for its originally intended use over the useful life of the item.

b. The design and manufacture of the commercial items follows the specifications of the Performance Standards for Electronic Products: General, 21 CFR pt. 1010.

c. The item is operated in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended operating procedures.

d. Maintenance, service, or repair activities which could expose employees to accessible levels of radiation, equal to or greater than the applicable exposure level, are performed only by appropriately authorized and qualified employees.

4.17.4 General Precautions for Exempted Items

Exemption of radiation devices from the authorization requirements of NASA’s Non-ionizing radiation protection programs will not be construed to exempt the user from other safety requirements relating to potential hazards associated with operation of the item such as electrical hazards.

DISTRIBUTION:
NODIS

This document does not bind the public, except as authorized by law or as incorporated into a contract. This document is uncontrolled when printed. Check the NASA Online Directives Information System (NODIS) Library to verify that this is the correct version before use: https://nodis3.gsfc.nasa.gov.