This video applies to cabinet x-ray
machines only. It does not include
medical applications or other open beam
applications. These cabinet machines are
considered very safe when used properly.
Never defeat interlocks. Use of a machine
without an interlock could result in
acute radiation poisoning, as well as
long-term health issues. X-rays emit
very high-energy radiation and over-
exposure can lead to tissue damage of
the lens of the eye, skin, bone marrow, and
reproductive organs; cancers as a result
of large doses, genetic damage when
there's an exposure to the reproductive
organs, and developmental defects on
irradiated embryos or fetuses. Always
ensure that you're wearing a radiation
monitoring badge. Radiation monitoring
badges should be stored away from
sources of radiation. Ensure you don't
store your radiation badge in direct
sunlight as this can register
radioactive readings.
X-ray machines should be leak tested
annually.
You may also test a machine before each
use to ensure safe operation. When
purchasing x-ray equipment, insure its
been certified for use in Canada.
Machines approved by the FDA or EPA in
the United States, or European agencies
may not necessarily meet the safety
requirements in Canada. Ensure the
machine certification has been issued by
the Radiation Protection Branch of
Health Canada. As well as the Canadian
Standards Association. If a machine has
not been certified in Canada, it may take
several months or years as well as
costly modifications to have a Canadian
agency certify it as safe for use. Also
ensure that any x-ray machines come with
an x-ray on light, or some kind of
indicator to inform the user when the
machine is active.
It's perfectly safe to be in close
proximity to an active x-ray cabinet
machine. The radiation emissions
associated with these machines is less
than the daily dose humans receive from
naturally occurring sources of
background radiation.
There's also no risk present to
electronics located in close proximity
to the machines.
However film may be affected by cabinet
x-ray machines.
Well this is unlikely, it's best to keep
any film a safe distance away from the
machine. If there's ever an issue with an
x-ray machine ensure all interlocks are
secure, and inform your supervisor
immediately.
For more information on x-ray cabinets
and x-ray safety regulation consult the
Occupational Health and Safety Act or
contact the Environmental Health
and Safety Office.