Safety Measures for X-Ray Equipment

Using X-Ray equipment can be dangerous. The analytical x-ray produces intense beams of low-energy x-rays that are highly damaging to the body. Luckily, newer instruments have been designed to minimize radiation exposure with hood enclosures, interlocks, and beam shielding. But the primary beam can still cause a dangerous exposure rate of 40,000 Roentgen per minute. Radiation hazards can also be a result of leakage and scatter radiation.

X-ray system

X-ray equipment includes a control console, which is a key component in generating images. The three primary adjustable controls in this system are tube voltage (kilovolts), amperage (milliamps), and exposure time (minutes). Some systems also have a switch for changing the focal spot size of the tube. Many x-ray machines also include a digital console that allows the user to customize settings for a specific procedure, including patient thickness.

The operator of an X-ray machine must alert all people present in the room when it is switched on. The operator of an X-ray machine should never leave it unattended while it is producing radiation. The operator must also make sure that all personnel in the room are properly protected from exposure to radiation. Keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best x-ray equipment (Opens in a new window) for your medical facility. You can also choose from manual and fully automatic systems.

X-ray tube

An X-ray tube is a cylindrical radiation source that emits x-rays in a specific direction. The tube contains a cathode, anode, and rotor apparatus that are enclosed in a glass or metal encasement. A vacuum is maintained inside the encasement to prevent the X-rays from escaping. Some types have separate power supplies to ensure a continuous flow of X-rays.

The electrical components of an X-ray tube determine the quality of the radiation. A generator converts mains AC to DC and supplies electrons to the tube. Electrical parameters such as the voltage and current of the tube influence the quality of the x-rays. The exposure time, in milliseconds, is also controlled. Hence, the more accurate the x-ray image, the better. Several other parameters are also important for determining the quality of x-rays.

X-ray circuit breaker

An X-ray circuit consists of three separate circuits: the filament circuit, the high-voltage circuit, and the secondary circuit. Each circuit is composed of a specialty transformer, as well as various components that are numbered. The circuit breaker for x-rays should have all three components. The breaker should also be properly sized and positioned to ensure proper safety. This article will outline the parts of the circuit breaker and explain the purpose of each component.

The AC power source supplies the x-ray circuit. It is wired into the building, supplying electric power from the power company. A typical outpatient facility uses a 220-V power supply, while a hospital's larger equipment might require a higher voltage. The main switch controls the power going to the control console. The x-ray circuit itself operates at 120 volts, and many of the components in the circuit work with that voltage.

Inspection

Missouri's Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is implementing a new x-ray inspection program. Facilities must regularly inspect all X-ray equipment. Inspections are prioritized based on the equipment's potential impact on public health. They can range from once a year for mammography facilities to once every seven years for veterinarians. The Department has certified four inspectors through Integrated Science Support (ISS) to perform these inspections. The frequency of inspections depends on the type of equipment in the facility. Registered facilities should have received a letter explaining the new inspection system. An inspector from the QE will conduct machine inspections and report to the State.

Before beginning any x-ray work, radiation survey results are required. The survey should be documented and retained. It is the responsibility of the x-ray safety officer to notify the appropriate authority and follow up on any problems. Inspection reports should provide information on the frequency of maintenance and calibration of the x-ray source. They should also include information on the number of exposures each unit receives on a weekly basis. The processing system should change chemicals regularly, and operators must be placed at least six feet from the x-ray source.

Regulations of x-ray equipment

To prevent radiation leakage, x-ray producing equipment is required to display a "caution" sign. It must also have a fail-safe warning light or device near the switch that energizes the x-ray tube. The radiation safety division assigns three area monitors for each piece of x-ray equipment. These monitors, similar to personnel dosimeters, are placed nearby the equipment to monitor radiation levels.

Depending on the type of x-ray equipment, training for operating it must be specific to the type of equipment in use. The training documentation should include a copy of the operating procedures for each piece of equipment, specific equipment-use training, names of staff who attended, and the qualifications of the person who gave the training. Training documentation can be documented by using a Wording for a Training Device form found in Appendix C of the X-ray Regulatory Guide.

Requirements for registration

Requirements for registration for X Ray equipment are different for different types of devices. Domestic television receivers and electrical equipment that produce radiation incident to their use are not subject to registration requirements. However, radiation-producing machines that are in transit or that contain salvage parts are exempt from registration. However, facilities that regularly use X-ray equipment are required to register. For this reason, facilities should review and adhere to these regulations.

When a facility obtains a new x-ray device, they must fill out an Initial Registration Form. New facilities or those that have a satellite office will need to fill out this form before they can use the equipment. If the new facility is a new one, they must register and pay the applicable fee before using the x-ray equipment for the first time. They will be sent an invitation to complete the online registration system. Existing facilities must also register if they acquire new equipment within 30 days.