Part 420: Radiation-Producing Equipment Operating Procedures

• 420.10 Introduction
• 420.20 Radiation-Producing Equipment Operation Instructions
• 420.30 Radiation-Producing Equipment Use Log
• 420.40 Frequency of Surveys
• 420.50 Leakage
• 420.60 Radiation-Producing Equipment Inspection, Servicing and Maintenance

420.10 Introduction

Ensuring radiation-producing equipment is operated correctly, is adequately shielded, has appropriate interlocks and safety features, and is routinely monitored for radiation leakage and proper operation of safety features are key components of any radiation safety program.

420.20 Radiation-Producing Equipment Operation Instructions

Specific operating and emergency procedures including testing of safety features and interlocks shall be posted in the radiation-producing equipment area, and all personnel shall be familiar with and comply with these instructions. A copy of the Certificate of Registration issued by the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare must be posted on or immediately adjacent to each radiation-producing machine.

420.30 Radiation-Producing Equipment Use Log

All users shall maintain a separate log showing the use of radiation-producing equipment in possession, including the date the equipment was used, the purpose and personnel present on that date. This log will be kept in a clear and concise format that can easily be understood by the radiation safety officer or other inspector.

420.40 Frequency of Surveys

Frequency and type of surveys will be according to those approved by the Radiation Safety Committee at time of authorization, or to the applicable section(s) of the Idaho Radiation Control Regulations for the type of radiation-producing equipment in question. Surveys must be made of all new installations, and after any significant service to the equipment (replacement of x-ray tube, beam filtration changes, etc.).

420.50 Leakage

If leakage is found in excess of the limits specified in the applicable section(s) of the Idaho Radiation Control regulations for the type of radiation-producing equipment in question, the equipment must be made inoperable and the radiation safety officer or designee notified immediately. Such equipment shall not be used until the problems causing the leakage are corrected, and further surveys confirm leakage is below the allowable limits.

420.60 Radiation-Producing Equipment Inspection, Servicing and Maintenance

All users shall follow any equipment control measures specified by the manufacturer and/or Radiation Safety Committee. The authorized user shall also comply with all other applicable sections of the Idaho Radiation Control Regulations for the type of radiation-producing equipment in question. All adjustments, maintenance and servicing necessary for safe use of the equipment must be performed on a regular basis as recommended by the manufacturer, and records shall be kept by the authorized user for review by the radiation safety officer or other inspector. Any changes to the equipment set-up which could affect the potential radiation hazard must be approved by the radiation safety officer or designee. Certain aspects of radiation-producing equipment must be monitored frequently:

1. Operational Specifications - Orientation of the radiation beam, voltage, current, time, permanent filter and maximum aperture shall be in agreement with the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific application.
2. Shutters and Locks - Shutter mechanisms and interlocking devices shall be inspected by the radiation safety officer or designee at least every six months for proper operation.
3. Warning Devices and Radiation-Monitoring Equipment - All visual and audible warning devices and monitoring equipment shall be inspected by the radiation safety officer or designee every six months for proper operation.
4. Survey Meter:
1. The use of a survey meter is appropriate for x-ray emitting equipment.
2. All survey meters and detectors must be approved by the radiation safety officer.
3. Prior to each survey, the batteries must be tested, and a check standard must be used to establish that the survey meter is operable and properly detecting the radiation field.
4. The area surveyed must be large enough to adequately cover the area of possible leakage.
5. The results of leakage surveys can be recorded on the Contamination Survey Form RSM-3 or the equivalent information can be recorded in a user's log book. Background radiation levels must also be recorded.
6. Survey meters and detectors should be calibrated annually. A certificate of calibration will be required as verification that the instrument has been properly calibrated.
7. Survey meters and detectors can be calibrated by returning the meter and detector to the manufacturer or other commercial vendor providing calibration services. While user's meter and detector are being calibrated, a survey meter and detector may be borrowed from the radiation safety officer.