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Industrial and Cabinet X-ray Safety Training

Analytical radiation machines include, but are not limited to, X-ray diffraction, fluorescence analysis, spectroscopy, and particle size analysis. Some of these are considered to be cabinet X-ray systems if the X-ray tube is installed in an enclosure that is independent of existing architectural structures other than the floor upon which the device is placed. In addition, cabinet x-ray systems are designed to completely enclose the material being inspected or tested, provide sufficient radiation shielding for operators and nearby personnel, and keep people from placing any portion of the body, including hands, in the direct path of a radiation beam. Some devices use electrical interlocks or structural materials to achieve the shielding or beam termination objectives.

However, did you know that State requirements governing the receipt, use, and inspection of X-ray producing machines vary? Did you know that States typically require registration of these machines and inspection prior to use? Did you know that many states also require repeat inspections and surveys to be performed at regular interval? And did you know that individuals using analytical, industrial or cabinet X-ray machines must be qualified by training and experience prior to using one of these machines? It is important that owners of radiation-producing machines understand and implement these requirements in order to own and operate these devices legally, and ensure all personnel are adequately protected from unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation.

To that end, Plexus-NSD is pleased to provide training for individuals and organizations to assure that equipment operators have the necessary knowledge and tools for using the equipment correctly and legally, and for ensuring their radiation exposures are kept as low as reasonably achievable. Our course, designed and delivered by Certified Health Physicists (CHPs), includes class room training on the following topics at a minimum:

Radiation Fundamentals

  • Radiation and Physics of an X-ray tube
  • Radiation Quantities and units
  • How radiation interacts with matter
  • Sources of radiation (Background, Occupational, and others)
  • Radiation Exposure and Health Effects
  • Recognition of symptoms of an acute localized exposure
  • Principles of Radiation Protection (Time, Distance and Shielding)
  • Radiation Detection Instruments and Calibration

Radiation Protection Standards

  • Radiation Dose Limits
  • Monitoring and Survey Requirements
  • Machine Registration and State standards
  • Radiation Safety Procedures
  • Record-keeping and Reporting

Safe Use of the Equipment

  • Identification of radiation hazards associated with the use of the equipment
  • Radiation warning signs
  • Safety devices and interlocks
  • Proper operating and safety procedures for the radiation machine
  • Employee protection and Deliberate Misconduct

At Plexus-NSD, we are true believers in coursework being as specific to our student’s needs as possible. This and our other radiation safety courses are customizable and tailored to cover the information pertinent to you, your staff, your specific state requirements and the device or devices in your inventory. The course, which can be delivered at your facility or via webinar, also serves as helpful and appropriate refresher training for the safety staff and device operators. In all cases, certificates of completion and a comprehensive training package are issued.

Contact Plexus-NSD for information when the next webinar-based class is scheduled, to receive early notification of when registration will open for up-coming webinars, pricing for on-site classes, and for webinar tuition (there are discounts if more than one student from a facility participates).  We are confident you will find X-ray Safety Training by Plexus-NSD to be interesting, helpful, compliant with all requirements, and a cost-effective means of ensuring compliance and safety.