Material & Disbursement Services (MSD)
POLICY 46
Effective Date: 07/01/1995
Last Modified Date: 11/19/2003
Introduction
Various types of equipment produce radiation by design or incidental to the primary purpose of the device. Design and performance standards have been imposed on manufacturers through the "Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act," administered by the Center for Devices and Radiological Health, FDA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The purpose of the Act is to protect the public from unnecessary exposure to radiation from "electronic product radiation." The Act applies to products that emit x-ray, ultraviolet, infrared, or microwave radiation, and to lasers and ultrasonic equipment.
Oversight
Because the degree of hazard is dependent on method or location of installation and, in some cases, may change with the age of the equipment, the Department of Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) reviews purchase requisitions for radiation-producing equipment to ensure proper installation and periodic surveillance.
Placing an Order
Purchase Requisitions for radiation-producing equipment should be sent directly to EHS. EHS will review the requisitions, noting the location where the equipment is to be installed, and will determine whether shielding or other special requirements are necessary. A brief description of how the equipment will be used and any special safety precautions or operating procedures will help in expediting the review.
Installation of Equipment
Radiation-producing equipment must be installed by the vendor or other qualified persons; in some cases these installers must be registered with the State Radiation Protection Agency. The using department should notify EHS on arrival of the equipment so that appropriate surveys and reports required by State and Federal agencies can be completed. EHS will review operating procedures before use.
Periodic Surveys
EHS will make periodic surveys of equipment as appropriate.
Assistance
For assistance or information concerning radiation-producing equipment, call EHS (962-5507).
Additional Information
See also:
MSD Appendix 7, Radiation-Producing Equipment
Department of Environment, Health & Safety
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