Year
1970
Abstract
The presence of \"noise\" due to measurement uncertainties at times makes it difficult for a safeguards system to determine how well material is being accounted for. Only by identifying and controlling the masking effect of this background \"noise\" can one determine the significance of apparent losses of material. Described is a simple replicate sampling approach useful for determining systematic and random errors associated with SNM quantities. The Division of Nuclear Materials Safeguards' experience in implementing this sampling method for verifying inventories at licensee facilities is discussed. The general inspection procedure of the Division is reviewed, and a summary of systematic and random errors observed at certain licensee facilities is presented.