Radiation Safety - A Workers' Guide

What are the key radiation safety requirements for personnel who work with radioactive materials or radiation-producing machines?

Key requirements include:

• Follow ALARA principles by minimizing the time spent near radiation sources, maximizing distance from sources whenever possible, and using appropriate shielding. 
• Prevent internal exposure by avoiding inhalation, ingestion, or absorption of radioactive materials. Volatile radioactive materials should be handled in properly functioning fume hoods, and good laboratory hygiene practices must always be followed. 
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriate for the materials being handled, including laboratory coats, gloves, safety glasses, and other protective equipment as required. 
• Wear assigned dosimetry devices, such as radiation badges or ring dosimeters, when required to monitor occupational radiation exposure. 
• Conduct routine contamination surveys using approved radiation detection instruments and promptly decontaminate contaminated areas.
• Properly manage radioactive waste by segregating waste by isotope and waste type and arranging for disposal through Environmental Health & Safety (EHS). Radioactive waste must never be disposed of in regular trash or poured down the drain. 
• Immediately report spills, contamination events, suspected exposures, equipment malfunctions, or other radiation-related incidents to EHS and follow established emergency procedures. 

• Understanding radiation hazards and following approved laboratory procedures protects both personnel and the campus community while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

For questions regarding radiation safety, dosimetry, radioactive waste disposal, contamination surveys, or radiation-related emergencies, contact ehs@usd.edu or Environmental Health and Safety (EHS)