1. Phenotyping Facility X-ray Awareness Training
2019

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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.

8. Radiation Safety Group
James Schweitzer, Ph.D
Radiation Safety Officer (RSO)
Matthew Tang
Health Physicist
Kyle Smith
Health Physicist
Jerry J. Gibbs
Waste Handling & Meter Calibration

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