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SECTION 5: Authorization and
Registration for "Radiation Producing Machines and Devices"
Authorization to use "Radiation
Producing Machines and Devices" is handled similarly to that
for radioisotopes. However, there are substantial inherent differences
which arise from such factors as the length and uncertainties of the acquisition
process and the complexity of installation. These result in the continuing
involvement of the "Health
Physicist" with the individual acquiring the machine or device,
culminating in a final authorization after the machine or device has been
installed and tested. The procedures which follow have been devised to
take into account these differences and to allow some flexibility in the
process.
Approval (top)
All persons planning to possess or use "Radiation Producing Machines
or Devices"must first consult with and obtain the approval of the
"Health Physicist" before purchasing, accepting, or receiving
as a gift any such machine or device.
Authorization Procedure (top)
The procedure for obtaining authorization to use "Radiation
Producing Machines and Devices" is handled as follows:
- Prior to the acquisition of such a machine, the individual who will
be responsible for the machine or device must consult with the "Health
Physicist."
- The "Health Physicist" reviews with the individual the
intended use, the safety specifications of the machine or device,
the rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of the machine
or device, and other aspects of radiation safety.
- On the basis of the information obtained during the discussions,
the "Health Physicist" issues an initial authorization which
permits acquisition to proceed. The initial authorization takes the
form of a memo to the individual which states that acquisition of
the machine or device is approved and which details the conditions,
if any, under which acquisition is authorized.
- The individual notifies the Office of Environmental Health and Safety
when the machine or device arrives so that he or she may review plans
for installation with the "Health Physicist." At this time
such factors as the adequacy of shielding, direction of the beam,
and occupancy of adjoining areas are considered.
- Final authorization to use the machine or device is given by the
"Health Physicist" after compliance with the appropriate
regulations has been demonstrated and after initial radiation surveys
have demonstrated that the machine or device can be operated safely.
At the discretion of the "Health Physicist," final authorization
to use the machine or device may be referred to the Radiation Safety
Committee.
- Authorization for a machine or device constructed at the University
follows the procedures given above except that contact between the
responsible individual and the "Health Physicist" is more
continuous and extensive.
State Registration (top)
Every "Radiation Producing Machine or Device," with the exceptions
noted below, must be registered with the State of New Jersey's Bureau
of Radiological Health within 30 days of its initial installation. Electrical
equipment, not primarily intended to produce radiation, which generates
radiation levels of 0.5 mrem/hour or less at 5 cm from any readily accessible
surface and machines or devices in storage do not need to be registered.
The registration process is performed by the Office of Environmental
Health and Safety which maintains the centralized records. An initial
registration fee and an annual fee are assessed by the State for each
registered "Radiation Producing Machine and Device" and are
ultimately paid by the department and/or "Authorized
User." The Office of Environmental Health and Safety must also
be notified when a machine or device is disassembled, taken out of service,
sold, transferred, or discarded so that the State can be notified.
Requirements (top)
The requirements for labeling, warning signs, procedures, and dose
limits for "Radiation Producing Machines and Devices" are
given in Section 16.
Purchase Orders (top)
Under a formal agreement between the Purchasing Department and the
Office of Environmental Health and Safety, requisitions for the purchase
of x-ray diffraction machines, electron microscopes, and other types
of "Radiation Producing Machines and Devices" are forwarded
to the Office of Environmental Health and Safety for approval. Because
there may be requirements and State specifications of which the purchaser
is unaware, it is in the purchaser's best interest to confer with the
"Health Physicist" before a price quotation or delivery date
is requested.
Changes in Responsibility or Location (top)
The Office of Environmental Health and Safety must be promptly notified
of changes in responsibility for and location of such machines or devices.
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