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April 20, 1954
Thomas L. Shipman, M. D., Health Division Leader, LASL
BLOOD COUBTS FOLLOWING TEST OPERATIONS
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Until we get into the field of massive doses of radiation (25 r to 50 r
at least), blood counts are of absolutely no value in determining the
presence or absence of exposure to radiation. The principal value of
eau
Given H. Dugger, Safety & Fire Protection Branch,
routine blood counts is to detect as early as possible the existence of
some form of blood disease which might possibly be attributed to radiation.
This is the reason why we like to have blood counts done on test personnel
before a test starts. There is little or no actual value in repeating such
counts again at the completion of a test miless ons at the start showed some
abnormality. I+ would be my recommendation, therefore, that EG&G, as well
as other concerns in a similar position, should require all their employees
to have annual physical examinations carried out by a competent physician.
These exans should include a complete blood sount and a chest I ray.
Actually, for a firm like EG&G this is no more than good business practice;
most of their workers are valuable to then the year
represent investments which are worth protecting. If any of their workers
ere terminating their employment at the close
undergo a physical exam including blood count and Z ray at the time.
In
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addition, I em perfectly certain tha
ae
ministrative requirements of all test organisations ani that special pretest
exams Would mot be necessary.
Wherever possible, it is advisable to have periodic examinations of this type
performed by the same physician. Some people in the EG&G organisation aight
like to have theirs done in Boston, some in Las Vegas, and possibly some in
Albuquerque er Honolulu.
I would be very happy, if requested, to assist
EG6G in setting up a comprehensive physical examination program to cover all
ef their employees; I am sure that such a procedure would be a thoroughly
justifiable expense.
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COLLECTION
BOX No.
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VRIGURAL SIGNED BY TidalL, SutaaAN, ALD.
THOMAS L, SHIPMAN, M. D.
Health Division Leader
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