The use of radiation-producing machines, such as x-ray emitting devices, is regulated by the California Radiologic Health Branch (RHB). Each must be registered with the RHB and are subject to fees paid by the university. X-ray emitting devices are safe to use when users receive appropriate training and all equipment safety controls are in place and working as designed.
X-ray machines and other radiation-producing devices, generate ionizing radiation when activated. The equipment is not in itself radioactive. No x-rays are emitted when the unit is OFF or unplugged (no power).
All radiation-producing devices must be approved by EH&S and registered with the RHB. The inventory submitted to the RHB must be updated whenever a unit is moved, transferred, discarded or sold.
Examples of radiation-producing machines
- Medical diagnostic x-ray machines
- X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzers
- Irradiators
- X-ray diffraction (XRD) devices
- Electron microscopes (EM)
Elements of the x-ray safety program
- EH&S and RSO review and approval process
- Registration with the CA Radiologic Health Branch (RHB)
- X-Ray Machine Use Authorization (XMUA)
- User training
- Periodic radiation leak survey
- Regulatory signs and labels
- Radiation machine disposal or transfer notification
Inventory Management
- Notify EH&S before acquiring, transferring or disposing of x-ray producing devices.
- University Procurement will require EH&S approval before processing a PO or pCard transaction.
- The Radiation Safety Officer must notify the RHB of any changes to the inventory promptly in writing.
Contact the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) for assistance with the acquisition, use, transfer, and disposal of radiation-producing machines and devices.
SFSU Radiation Safety Officer: Linda Vadura