The program is directed toward experienced material handlers and supervisory and senior staff personnel and others with a strong interest in criticality safety. A basic background in mathematics and science is helpful, but math beyond simple algebra will be avoided. Examples and common analogies are used to explain complex concepts and processes.

Course Schedule
These courses are scheduled at the rate of about one every other month. This can be increased or decreased depending on demand. Class size is limited to 15, and classes with fewer than 10 registrants 14 days prior to the start date will be cancelled. Contact the HSR-6 Group Office (505 667-4614) for a current schedule of courses or go to the Registration page.

Course Registration
This course is intended for LANL employees only. For course schedule and registration go here .

Syllabus
Lecture Sessions:

• Introduction
  • Safety Philosophy - Fundamentals of Safety
  • Radiation Safety versus Criticality Safety
  • Risk in Perspective
• Basic Concepts and Nomenclature
  • Atoms and Neutrons, Sizes and Masses
  • Neutron Cross Sections
  • Fission Processes
  • Prompt and Delayed Neutrons
• Idealized and Real Fissioning Systems
  • Neutron Slowing Down
  • Neutron Life Cycle
  • Multiplication Factor
  • Metal versus Solution Systems
• Time Behavior of Fissioning Systems
  • Delayed Neutron Effefcts
  • Prompt and Delayed Neutrons
  • Reactor Period
• Minimum Critical Masses
• Standards, Guides, Computer Codes, and Other Information Sources
• Accident and Incident Experience - Case Descriptions - Lessons Learned
• Factors that Influence Criticality and Practical Criticality Control
  • Slab, Annular, and Poisoned Tanks
  • Limited-Volume Dissolvers
  • Solution Storage in Six-Inch Tanks
  • Storage Vaults - Interaction
  • Moderation Control - Dry Oxide Poisoning
  • Concentration Control
  • Mass Limits
  • Reflection
  • Density Effects
  • Enrichment - Slightly Enriched Uranium