R9-7-613. Veterinary Medicine Radiographic Systems

A. Equipment. A registrant shall ensure that: 1. The total filtration permanently in the useful beam is not less than 1.5 millimeters aluminum-equivalent for equipment operating at up to 70 kVp and 2.0 millimeters aluminum-equivalent for equipment operating in excess of 70 kVp; 2. A device is provided to terminate the exposure after a preset time or exposure; 3. Each radiographic system has a “dead-man” exposure switch with an electrical cord of sufficient length to allow the operator to stand at least 1.82 meters (six feet) away from the useful beam during x-ray exposures. B. Procedures: A registrant shall ensure that: 1. Unless required to restrain an animal, the operator stands at least 1.82 meters (6 feet) away from the useful beam and the animal during a radiographic exposure; 2. An individual other than the operator is not in the x-ray room or area while an exposure is being made, unless the individual’s assistance is required; 3. If possible, an animal is held in position during an x-ray exposure using mechanical supporting or restraining devices; 4. An individual holding an animal during an x-ray exposure is: a. Wearing protective gloves and an apron of not less than 0.5 millimeter lead equivalent or positioned behind a whole-body protective barrier; b. Wearing required personnel monitoring devices; and c. Positioned so that no part of the person’s body, except hands and arms, will be struck by the useful beam; 5. If an individual holds or supports an animal or a film during an x-ray exposure, the name of the individual is recorded in an x-ray log that contains the animal’s name, the type of x-ray procedure, the number of exposures, and the date of the procedure; and 6. As a condition of employment an individual is not required to routinely hold or support animals, or hold film during radiation exposures.