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3.
Radiation Safety Guidelines
To ensure the health and safety of the operator and all others in the vicinity of
operating x-ray inspection equipment, the following guidelines are recommended
for establishing a basic radiation safety program.
Note: Federal, State, and some local government agencies
may have more stringent regulations concerning the operation
and use of equipment that produces ionizing radiation (x-rays).
The requirements of these governing agencies supersede the
recommendations made by the manufacturer.
1. A copy of the operating instructions should be kept at the machine at
all times.
2. Personnel operating the equipment should be trained in the proper and
safe operation of the machine.
3. Radiation surveys should be performed periodically to ensure that the
amount of radiation being emitted by the machine is less than
0.5mR/hour. We recommend performing a radiation survey:
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Following initial installation – before placing the x-ray system
into service.
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Whenever the x-ray system is relocated.
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Whenever the x-ray system receives a strong jolt (e.g., being
dropped ore than one inch or struck sufficiently hard to dent or
deform the exterior cabinet).
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Whenever a leaded component (such as the x-ray generator,
shielding, inspection tunnel curtains, LXDA or collimator cover)
is removed for any reason or period of time.
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Annually – from the date of the most recent radiation survey
4. All controls and indicators should be checked daily to e nsure proper
operation.
5. Do not operate the x-ray system if it is not in good repair. Do not
attempt to remove or bypass any controls (e.g. foot pedals and key-
switches), interlocks, status indicators, leaded components (including
the inspection tunnel curtains) or physical barriers. In the event of
failure or breakage, these items should only be replaced by a qualified
service technician using factory-approved parts.
6. Service of the equipment should only be performed by or under the
instruction of trained PACE personnel.