INTRODUCTION

The term "cabinet x-ray system" means an x-ray system with the x-ray tube installed in an enclosed, interlocked cabinet.

PA DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONENTAL PROTECTION

Use of x-ray equipment in Pennsylvania is regulated by the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The DEP has established regulations which must be followed by all individuals using energized (x-ray) equipment. These regulations are found in Title 25 Chapter 219, 220, and 227 of the Pennsylvania Code and are available for review in the Environmental Health and Radiation Safety (EHRS) office or on the DEP website at www.dep.state.pa.us.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH AND RADIATION SAFETY (EHRS)

EHRS is responsible for ensuring that radiation and radioactive material is used safety at Penn and associated facilities (e.g., Wistar Institute, CHOP). EHRS staff perform a safety check of each diffraction unit annually (at a minimum). EHRS staff may be reached at 215-898-7187 during the day or via the emergency pager at 215-980-0035 during off hours.

UNIT REGISTRATION

All analytical energized equipment must be registered with Environmental Health and Radiation Safety (EHRS). This can be done by contacting EHRS and must be done when equipment is installed (215-898-7187).

UNIT RELOCATION, DISPOSAL OR TRANSFER

EHRS must be notified prior to relocation, disposal or transfer of cabinet x-ray equipment. This includes moving equipment to a different room within the same building.

WORKER REGISTRATION

All individuals using analytical x-ray units must register with EHRS. This may be done by filling out the form in the back of this guide or by using the EHRS webpage (www.ehrs.upenn.edu).

TRAINING

Individuals may not operate a cabinet x-ray system until they have received a copy of, instruction in, and demonstrated an understanding of, the operating procedures necessary to ensure radiation safety.

SAFETY DEVICES

Cabinet x-ray systems may not operate unless the following conditions are met:

1. All openings are securely closed.

2. Each access door to the cabinet has an interlock that terminates the exposure whenever that door is opened.

3. A warning label should be posted on the cabinet unit which states, "Caution Radiation - This Equipment Produces Radiation When Energized", or words containing a similar warning.