The SAM family handhelds and the RD-150 system are designed to support compliance with the relevant national and international standards. This appendix is a working crosswalk for procurement officers, training officers, and program managers.
The defining standard for handheld RIID performance in the United States. ANSI N42.34 specifies: - The set of isotopes a compliant identifier must reliably distinguish (covered in Appendix A) - Response time, minimum activity for identification, and confidence reporting - Environmental operating ranges (temperature, humidity, mechanical shock) - Alarm performance and false-alarm management - Form factor, ergonomics, and battery considerations
SAM family handhelds are designed to meet ANSI N42.34 in their compliant configurations. Confirm the specific configuration of your fielded units against the standard; some optional features (neutron detection, specific connectivity options) may not be present on every unit.
The XML schema for spectra and event data. Compliant instruments produce spectrum files that any compliant analysis tool can read, the basis of vendor-independent reachback.
SAM family instruments export spectra in N42.42 XML format, enabling reachback to any partner that accepts the standard.
The international counterpart to ANSI N42.34, with substantially overlapping requirements. Programs operating internationally or coordinating with international partners reference IEC 62327 alongside the ANSI standard.
Performance standard for vehicle-mountable search systems. Relevant to RD-150 vehicle configurations.
Performance standard for backpack search systems. Relevant to RD-120 backpack.
DHS programs (CWMD, formerly DNDO) and FEMA guidance documents inform the operational use of RIIDs in homeland security missions. Specific program elements that programs should be aware of include:
The SAM family and RD-150 system are widely deployed across DHS-funded state and local programs. Specific funding streams and procurement vehicles change over time; coordinate with your state administrative agent.
International programs reference IAEA Nuclear Security Series documents on instrument-based detection and response. The basic operator-level expectations align with ANSI/IEC; reachback and laboratory tier expectations are also defined.
Every state operates a radiation control program (RCP), typically within the state health department, with primary authority for licensed radioactive materials in the state. RCPs are critical reachback partners for industrial source events, lost-source notifications, and many medical-related calls. Maintain current contact information for your state RCP and exercise the channel before you need it.