DRAFT 95 4 May 89 CONTRACTOR MEDICAL PLUTONIUM Wheeler visits BNL to discuss the urine analysis for plutonium content of Marshall tsland samples. Recently BNL has sent samples to the University of Utah for a comparison study between laboratories.*” 1 Jun 89 RADIATION According to DOE Secretary James Watkins, at his request the NAS establishes on this date a standing Committee on Radiation Epidemiological Research Programs to provide independentscientific advice to the DOE. The committee will advise DOE on the status of its epidemiology pr m, the creation of a comprehensive epidemiological data repository, the velopment of protocols for the use of this repository, and the granting of independent research proposals.” 5 Jun 89 CONTRACTOR MEDICAL PLUTONIUM RADIATION All of the Rongelap and Utirik urine samples, except one, taken by BNL in May 1989 show plutonium at background levels.*" 10 Jul 89 CONTRACTOR MEDICAL PLUTONIUM In the report, "The Radiological Dose From Pu at RongelapIsland," William L Robison, Casper Sun, and Charles B. Meinhold state that the estimated committed dose equivalent:from plutonium -at'' Rongelap: Island?is “very similar’for both the environmental arid urineanalyses.” BNL‘ and“LLNLagree’ ort 't Rongelap: Island: ies ok z Tt Bes Poe Brak} prec RQ@ach woe of 12°Aug’ 89 } _: 10 jul - “ PLOT we i CONTRACTOR “OS™ . ad i, Peete st i 7 Fa ty ; wks, oe Woe ELE ~ * a | . plutohium dose on MORES ‘: cht TB noo laa a tp eet, * ge ce . i . : . + oy COE .* -— te ~ : Nw a. o “ts ~ MEDICAL PLUTONIUM The BNL conducts whole body counting and urine sampling of Enewetak, Medrin, Rongelap, and Utirik people. The eight team members collect 976 whole body counting records to reconfirm the radiological safety of the Marshallese and 209 urine samples to monitor the Marshallese uptake of plutonium. Precautions are taken during this mission to ensure the minimum amount of contamination of the samples because of the probability of contamination of the 1981-1984 samples during handling. 2 Aug 89 a s 5004853 ADMINISTRATION In testimony before the Senate Committee on Governmental Affairs DOE Secretary James -D. Watkins announces the establishment of a special advisory committee to conduct an independent evaluation of DOE epidemiological activities. Watkins expects the committee also to provide guidance on restructuring and