xrayguide

30 X-Ray Safety L. Laboratory Safety The Laboratory Safety Manual outlines the minimum requirements for safe laboratory operations at ISU. PIs and authorized personnel will be subject to the requirements of the Laboratory Safety Manual. The potential hazards associated with working with sources of ionizing radiation can be minimized through the use of appropriately designed and constructed facilities and by adherence to standard laboratory safety rules and practices. Facility Requirements The majority of research laboratories at Iowa State University (ISU) are adequate for the use of radiation producing devices (RPDs). However, additional x-ray shielding may be needed for larger systems.. Specific requirements will be determined by EH&S on a case-by case basis. Procedures, Practices, and Rules for the Safe Use In general, exposure to ionizing radiation can be maintained As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) through the adherence to a number of standard procedures, practices and rules. These include: • Individuals who have not been approved for the x-ray system must not operate it. • Security of RPD keys or passwords must be maintained at all times to prevent unauthorized use or tampering. • A x-ray sign must be conspicuously posted in the laboratory. • A State of Iowa “Notice to Employees” must be posted. • Dosimeters, if issued, must be worn when operating the radiation-producing devices. Annual Reviews In order to ensure that safety rules are observed and that RPD’s have been adequately controlled and operated, EH&S staff conducts periodic surveys and audits of radiation laboratories. During these audits general safety surveys (GSS) may also be completed. The criteria for the GSS can be found on the EH&S website. Facility Audits X-ray and RPD laboratory audits are performed at least annually. During each audit, the Principal Investigator (PI), authorization, standard operating procedures (SOPs), security, training records, and usage logs are reviewed andworker performance is evaluated.