A temporary hot cell and related method for handling high radiation level sources having wall, ceiling and floor structures comprised at least in part of temporary structures forming an enclosure to reduce to acceptable levels radiation of the surround from high level radiation sources handled within the enclosure. Preferably one or more manipulator arms extended through a wall structure of the enclosure to permit handling of the high level radiation sources within the enclosure by an operator located external to the enclosure. A window is positioned in the wall structure of the enclosure to allow an external operator to view handling of the radiation sources. The hot cell preferably also has a false floor, a filter and vent system sheeting to cover portions of the inner surface of the temporary structure forming the enclosure hot cell.