This standard describes the performance requirements for hand-held radionuclide identifying instruments.The requirements stated are based on instruments used in support of efforts associated with the Department of Homeland Security.

This standard specifies general requirements and test procedures, radiation response requirements, and electrical, mechanical, and environmental requirements. Successful completion of the tests described in this standard should not be construed as an ability to successfully identify all isotopes in all environments.

This standard addresses instruments that can be used for homeland security applications to detect and identify radionuclides, for gamma doserate measurement, and for indication of neutron radiation.