DRAFT
99
4 May 89
CONTRACTOR
MEDICAL
PLUTONIUM
Wheeler visits BNL to discuss the urine analysis for plufnium content of
Marshall Island 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 thle
NAS establishes
to provide independentscientific advice to the DOE. The committee
on the status of its epidemiology program, the creation of
epidemiological data repository, the development of protocols fdr
will advise DOE
comprehensive
the use of this
on this date a standing Committee on Radiation Epidemiological
repository, and the granting of independent research proposals.™
rch Programs
5 Jun 89
CONTRACTOR
MEDICAL
PLUTONIUM
RADIATION
All of the Rongelap and Utirik urine samples, except one,itaken 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 Rongelap
§land,” 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 and urine analyses. BNL and LLNL agree on the pitonium dose on
Rongelap Island.”
10 Jul - 12 Aug 89
CONTRACTOR
MEDICAL
PLUTONIUM
The BNL conducts whole body counting and urine sampling
of Enewetak,
Medrin, Rongelap, and Utirik people. The eight team members cbilect 976 whole
body counting records to reconfirm the radiological safety of the Matshallese and 209
urine samples to monitor the Marshallese uptake of plutonium. Preqhutions 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
ADMINISTRATION
In testimony before the Senate Committee on Governmegtal Affairs DOE
Secretary James D. Watkins announces the establishment of a [special advisory
committee to conduct an independent evaluation of DOE epidemidlogicalactivities.
Watkins expects the committee also to provide guidance on
ructuring and