LIGO Contamination Control Plan

Document #:

LIGO-E0900047-v5

Document type:

E - Engineering documents

Abstract:

The LIGO interferometers are extremely sensitive to optical scattering or absorption losses induced by both particulate and hydrocarbon contamination. In order to minimize the likelihood of contamination of optical surfaces, numerous operational practices have been implemented at the LIGO Observatories. The purpose of this document is to describe the operational practices that have been implemented so that it can serve as a reference for observatory staff and visitors.

Files in Document:

• Contamination_Control_Plan_E0900047_v5.pdf (52.3 kB)

Other Files:

• Contamination_Control_Plan_E0900047_v5.doc (236.0 kB)

Topics:

• Observatory Facilities

Authors:

• Betsy Weaver

Notes and Changes:

As per Dennis, checked or changed that the following had been incorporated:
- No paper (identify low NVR alternative) in contamination sensitive area
- no more "30 second rule" for exit/re-entry to clean rooms
- full cleanroom 'bunny suits' for assembly (not just for chamber entry)
- no re-use of booties
- HEPA filtered gowning rooms to be used everywhere
- use hard enclosures instead of CPStat(TM) bags and UHV Al foil where practical
- minimize UHV Al foil use and shear, don't tear, off roll -- and do so outside the clean room for clean parts
- hard enclosures preferred over UHV foil wrapping where practical (smaller bulk items)

Still to do:
- define requirements for large/multiple aperture VE access vs single door limited entry (see T080067)
- add pix on wrapping stations and hard enclosures
- references to equipment SOPs