Radiation Safety Training
The UNM Radiation Safety Division provides training to those individuals who will be using radioactive materials in their research/work environment. Individuals using radiation-producing equipment are also required to have appropriate training. To determine what training is required, please submit a Training & Experience (T&E) form to the Radiation Safety Division. These forms may be obtained from Larry L. Cleveland (277-0317) or Wendy Feldman (277-0197).
Definitions:- Permit Holder
- An individual issued a Radiation Permit from the UNM Radiation Control Committee (RCC) to receive, possess and use radioactive materials or radiation-producing machines. Permit Holders are ultimately responsible for the use of ionizing radiation sources under their permits. This responsibility includes the proper supervision of individuals under their permit.
- Alternate Permit Holder
- A current UNM Permit Holder who agrees to act in place of an absent Permit Holder.
- Supervisor of Use
- Individual designated by the Permit Holder and approved by the RCC to supervise radiation-related activities in the lab.
- Person who Works Without Direct Supervision
- Based upon evaluation of the T&E form or upon successful completion of Introduction to Radiation Safety an individual may work without direct supervision.
- Person who Works Under Direct Supervision
- Individuals who do not have the appropriate training and/or experience must work under the direct supervision of the Permit Holder or Supervisor of Use. These individuals are required to receive appropriate training in a timely manner.
Safe use of radioactive materials, the physics of ionizing radiation, dose and dose limits, UNM procedures for ordering radioactive materials, disposal of radioactive waste materials, and other related subjects are taught during a ten hour course entitled Introduction to Radiation Safety. The course is taught during a one week period. A two hour lab and viewing of three video tapes on radiation safety is required. A "special project" is also required for completion of the course. A certificate will be issued to an individual who successfully completes all course requirements.
Why is Radiation Safety Training Required?
State and federal laws require appropriate training prior to unsupervised use of ionizing radiation sources. More importantly, individuals must be knowledgeable of the risks involved and proper safety procedures to follow to insure their safety while working with radiation sources.
Who Should Attend?
This course is intended to train those individuals working with or frequenting areas of ionizing radiation use.
When is the Training Offered?
The Introduction to Radiation Safety course is offered to the UNM community every other month beginning in January. A flyer is sent out from the Radiation Safety Division to current UNM Permit Holders prior to each new class.
How do I Register for the Course?
Once the flyer has been sent out, interested individuals should contact Larry L. Cleveland at 277-0317 or Wendy Feldman at 277-0197 to sign up for the course.
Where is the Course Offered?
The training takes place at the Safety, Health & Environmental Affairs Department (Building 233/#3). The address is 1801 Tucker St. NE and is located off the "G" parking lot just northeast of Lomas and University.