Cabinet X-ray Installation - hdbk110997

DOE-HDBK-1109-97

Radiological Safety Training for Radiation-Producing (X-Ray) Devices

Student's Guide

ii.

Cabinet X-ray Installation.

A cabinet X-ray installation is similar in principle to the analytical enclosed beam

system. The X-ray tube is installed in an enclosure (cabinet) that contains the

object being irradiated, provides shielding, and excludes individuals from its

interior during X-ray generation. A common example is the X-ray device used to

inspect carry-on baggage at airline terminals. Certified cabinet X-ray systems

comply with the regulations of 21 CFR 1020.40. Exposure rates adjacent to a

cabinet X-ray system shall not exceed 2 mrem/hour.

(Add facility-specific examples.)

iii.

Exempt Shielded Installation.

An exempt shielded facility or installation is similar to a cabinet X-ray

installation. It provides a high degree of inherent safety because the protection

depends on passive shielding and not on compliance with procedures. This type

does not require restrictions in occupancy since passive shielding is sufficient.

The low allowable dose equivalent rate of 0.5 mrem in any 1 hour 5 cm from the

accessible surface of the enclosure for this class of installation necessitates a high

degree of installed shielding surrounding the X-ray device.

(Add facility-specific examples.)

iv.

Shielded Installation.

A shielded installation has less shielding than exempt shielded. This is a cost

advantage for fixed installations, particularly for high-energy sources where the

reduction in shielding may result in significant savings. However, there is more

reliance on protective measures such as warning lights, posting, and procedures.

However, the posting and access control requirements, of 10 CFR 835 apply. Any

High Radiation Area must be appropriately controlled and any Radiation Area

must be defined and posted.