Choosing the LBGR is part of an iterative process used to determine the number of data points, N, needed. The LGBR can be set at the median residual radioactivity concentration believed to be remaining in the survey unit. If the true, but unknown, concentration in the survey unit is in the grey region, there will be difficulty in determining if the survey unit concentration is less than the DCGLW. Take the following into account the following when choosing the LBGR:

• variation of the concentrations in the survey unit (determined from prior surveys of the survey unit)
• variation in the measurements due to instrumentation at the candidate values for the LBGR
• possibility a survey unit could fail even though its average concentration is, in fact, less that the DCGL_W
• costs of measurements at the sensitivities needed to measure the candidate values for the LBGR

Optimize the trade-offs between increased instrument sensitivity, costs, and the number of data points needed by setting the LBGR so the relative shift is greater than one and less than three.

When no other information is available, MARSSIM suggests a default value for the LBGR equal to ½ the DCGL_W. After this, begin the iterative process described in “How do I choose the LBGR?”

For more information on the MARSSIM process, visit Multi-Agency Radiation Survey and Site Investigation Manual (MARSSIM).

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