ABSTRACT
The first steps in the interdiction of a sample of radioactive material take place in the field, far from the controlled environment of a radiochemical forensic facility. The field analyst will have but limited instrumentation to help make a material identification, discover the level of hazard associated with it, and package it for safe and reliable delivery to the laboratory or other disposition site. Instruments for the determination of radiation in the field must be easy to use, rugged, and portable. These instruments have two primary purposes: protection of personnel and initial identification and rough characterization of the material.
