Users’ Guide
University of Pennsylvania
Environmental Health and Radiation Safety (EHRS)
3160 Chestnut Street, Suite 400
(9/99 Edition)
INTRODUCTION
The term "electron microscope" includes equipment utilizing the wave characteristics of electrons that have been accelerated by an electric field to visualize the microscopic structure of material.
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).
EHRS registers all x-ray equipment with the State of Pennsylvania, as required by law. The State charges an annual registration fee to the University for this equipment. This fee will be billed to the respective departments after payment by EHRS.
UNIT RELOCATION, DISPOSAL OR TRANSFER
EHRS must be notified prior to relocation, disposal or transfer of electron microscopes. 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 or conduct maintenance on any electron microscope until they have received a copy of, instruction in, and demonstrated an understanding of, the operating procedures necessary to ensure radiation safety.
SIGNS
A warning label should be posted on the electron microscope which states, "Caution Radiation - This Equipment Produces Radiation When Energized", or words containing a similar warning.