Nuclear moisture gauges utilise radioactive sources for the determination of the moisture content of soils.
Though the radioactivity of the sources is sufficiently low to present a negligible and acceptable risk to the operators, the gauges are classified as potentially hazardous devices and may only be used, repaired or adjusted by trained and authorised persons.
These guidelines specify the working practices, procedures and safety rules to be followed when handling nuclear moisture gauges. All handling, operation, maintenance and repairs must be carried out in accordance with these procedures.