5.3.4 Radiation Safety Procedure

Policy

The safety of individuals from the effects of both X-ray and radioisotope exposure is the responsibility of the principal user. However, the Office of Environmental Health and Safety (OEHS) has been given the responsibility of overseeing the program and maintaining the license for the use of isotopes and X-rays.

At the present time the campus departments/units that have the principal users of X-rays and radioisotopes include: Biology, Chemistry, Health Sciences, Physics, and Student Health Services. Any individual faculty member may use radioactive materials in pursuit of his or her research or teaching; however, before obtaining the materials, the following items must be completed:

1. The potential user of X-rays or radioisotopes must file an application with the OEHS. The application can be obtained from the OEHS or one of the Radiation Safety Committee members. The application must show the following:
   • The type of radiation to be used.
   • The amounts of radiation to be used.
   • How the radiation will be used.
   • Experience in the use of radiation.
   • Disposal methods.
2. The University Radiation Safety Committee will review the application. If it is approved, the potential user will be allowed to order and work with the isotopes.
3. The laboratory where the radiation is to be used and stored will be inspected to ensure it meets the standards.
4. The potential user will be required to read and understand the Illinois Department of Nuclear Safety's regulations and the University's Radiation Safety Manual (available from the OEHS). All requirements identified in these materials must be adhered to or the user could lose his or her privilege to use radiation under the University's license.

Specific information regarding Radiation Safety can be obtained by connecting to the link below.

Links

Office of Environmental Health and Safety