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Radiation Safety Requirements for Dental Radiography Procedures in CVM
Training Requirements
- Authorized users of the handheld dental x-ray machine include licensed veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians.
- Operators must be familiar and follow the Safety Precautions from the portable dental x-ray user manual (e.g. chapter 2 Aribex Nomad Manual).
Operating Protocol:
- Follow procedures in “CVM Best Practices to Reduce Radiation Exposure”
- Protective lead PPE (gloves, aprons, thyroid shields) must be available
- Lead PPE is not required for operator if positioned correctly (see manufacturers instructions, e.g. Aribex Nomad).
- Lead PPE may be recommended for personnel attending the patient, e.g. anesthesiologist exposed to scatter radiation.
- Lead PPE is required for personnel holding the patient during any procedure.
- Whole body dosimeters and rings are required. Dosimeters are issued by Radiation Safety.
The handheld xray machine must be secured in a locked storage area when not in use.
The use of these portable dental x-ray machines at OSU must not exceed 30 continuous days, and a total of not more the 180 days/year. These machines are on short-term loan to OSU for the duration of a specific course. Exceeding these limits will require OSU to register the x-ray machine with the state of Oregon.