ME
operating from an LCU with sample return from the LCU to Parry by heli-
copter.
A limited number of recoveries were made using trucks and heavy
equipment, such as_tractors.
Recovery by this means was limited to the
complexes on which safe parking was possible during the shot.
This system
was successfully used on the Rojoa complex for recovery of the detector
cable lines; however, prompt recovery on the Teiteiripucchi complex by this
method was unsuccessful due to contamination of the tractor and land areas.
This recovery was delayed for several days and, eventually, was accomplished
using substitute equipment.
Precautionary measures were observed on those missions entering hot
areas where engine failure or other mishaps could result in dangerous radiation overdose. Recovery teams and helicopter or boat crews were thoroughly briefed on the procedures to be followed and the signals to be used,
and stand-by helicopters and boats were provided.
At Eniwetok Atoll, the main camp on Parry was not evacuated for any
of the events. Up-island camps were evacuated as required by specific
events. Re-entry consisted of postshot recovery missions as governed by
the radiological conditions; and as levels went down, by the re-entry of work.
parties preparing for subsequent shots; and in the case of Runit, by reestablishment of the camp on a limited basis five days after
as
fired.
.
Loy
3.11.3
+
~
Bikini Recovery and Re-entry
The scope of the data recovery problem at Bikini depended on the
number of experimental projects participating on a given shot. Once the
early recoveries were completed, later recoveries phased into and became
a part of the general re-entry, which involved, among other things, the early
transfer of control of operations from ship to shore without interruption and
without disruption of transportation services, and re-establishment of camp
services as soon as possible,
The procedure used to accomplish this recovery—re-entry was, in
general, as follows. When the Badoeng Strait had closed to within about
five miles of Enyu Island (usually at approximately H+ 1-1/2 hours), two
radiological survey helicopters were launched (via USS Curtiss for Rad-Safe
Officers and the CP on Enyu, as appropriate, for CTG 7.1) to obtain infor-
mation concerning radiological situation at Enyu and in the lagoon, and, as
conditions permitted, general lines and levels of contamination throughout
the atoll. As soon as definite indication was received that Enyu and the
anchorage were clear, permission was obtained to proceed with early recovery missions and with the initial phase of re-entry. By mutual agreement,
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was
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