Phenotyping Facility X-ray Awareness Training 2019

CT Root Scanner The CT root scanner device uses X-rays to image plants X-rays are a type of ionizing electromagnetic radiation X-rays are a valuable tool, but there are associated health risks. These risks can be minimized by adhering to certain principles and practices as explained in this presentation. X-rays are capable of traveling great distances and penetrating through low-density materials such as wood and plastic. However, they can be blocked or attenuated by shielding made from high-density materials such as lead and concrete. X-rays only generated when device is operating

Biological hazards When radiation interacts with the body, energy from the radiation is absorbed by the body tissue. ‘Dose’ is the energy transferred per tissue mass The primary adverse health effect is an increased risk of cancer. The increased risk is dependent on the dose. Increased dose = increased risk During normal operation, this increased risk is maintained at acceptable levels The goal is to keep your doses As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) by following the principles below

Exposure Pathways Radiation doses result from the following exposure pathways Primary Beam – The useful X-ray beam (orange arrows) emitted by the device used to analyze the sample Leakage Radiation X-rays (green arrows) that escape the tube housing Low energy X-rays (blue arrows) that escape the shielded cabinet

Safety features Multiple safety features have been integrated to minimize radiation doses Tube housing – X-ray tube enclosed in a shielded housing. Only the primary beam and low levels of leakage radiation permitted to escape the housing Shutter – Mechanical device that controls the emission of X-rays out of the tube housing. X-rays are emitted when the shutter is open X-rays are not emitted when the shutter is closed Shutter in closed position when the door is open Shielded cabinet – Shields a significant fraction of low-energy X-rays that would escape Warning light – Located on the top corner, indicates when X-rays are being generated Interlocks – Safety switches that prevent access to the primary X-ray beam

Emergencies Contact the facility supervisor if the following occurs. The CT scanner malfunctions The radiation area monitor alarms For emergencies outside of normal business hours, contact the Purdue Police Department Radiation Area Monitor

REM Responsibilities Radiological and Environmental Management (REM) is responsible for: Performing a radiation survey and compliance inspection when X-ray equipment is first installed, and when equipment is relocated or altered in any way that affects radiation safety. Performing an annual survey and inspection of each X-ray machine. When necessary, providing dosimetry to monitor radiation dose of users Providing X-ray safety training for X-ray users. REM is also responsible for complying with regulations set forth by the ISDH, for the safe use of radiation producing devices such as X-ray units. This is accomplished by providing training, calibration services, personnel dosimetry to monitor radiation exposure and consulting support for any safety issues identified by Purdue University employees and students.

Radiation Safety Group James Schweitzer, Ph.D. 49-42350 Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) jfschweitzer@purdue.edu Matthew Tang 49-42721 Health Physicist mmtang@purdue.edu Kyle Smith 49-41478 Health Physicist smith514@purdue.edu Jerry J. Gibbs 49-40207 Waste Handling & Meter Calibration jjgibbs@purdue.edu

Click here to begin the test. End of training module This concludes the PowerPoint portion of the training. Complete the test indicated below. You must have 75% of correct responses to pass. Your results will be emailed to you, and will constitute as your certification of your successful completion of the online portion of your training, if you have passed. Click here to begin the test.