R 333.5409 Conditions of operation.

Rule 409. (1) An operator shall properly utilize the beam-limiting devices provided to restrict the useful beam to the smallest area consistent with clinical requirements. Particular care shall be taken to align accurately the x-ray beam with the patient and film. (2) The operator shall ensure the presence of adequate filtration before a radiographic procedure pursuant to R 333.5405(2). (3) When a patient or film is held in position for radiography, mechanical supporting or restraining devices shall be available and shall be used unless contraindicated. Proper use of these devices shall permit the operator to stand behind the primary control shield during most radiographic procedures. (4) If the patient or film is held by 1 or more individuals, each individual shall wear protective gloves and body aprons of 0.5 millimeter minimum lead equivalence. Each individual shall be so positioned that no part of his or her body is struck by the useful beam and that his or her body is as far as possible from the edge of the useful beam. (5) Only individuals whose presence is necessary shall be permitted in the radiographic room during an exposure. These individuals shall be protected as specified in subrule (4) of this rule unless protected by an approved primary barrier. (6) If an auxiliary foot switch is provided as specified in R 333.5405(12), it shall be used only by a licensed veterinarian and only at times when sufficient personnel are not available to permit use of the primary exposure switch specified in R 333.5405(11). (7) To protect the feet of the veterinarian or his or her assistant from the primary beam while restraining patients, the underside of the radiographic table shall be protected by at least 1.6 millimeter (1/16 inch) lead or equivalent protection approved by the department. (8) Personnel monitoring shall be performed in controlled areas for each individual occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation from diagnostic x-ray equipment. Individual monitoring devices, such as film badge dosimeters or thermoluminescent dosimeters, shall be permanently assigned to each occupationally exposed individual. This monitoring shall be continuous during employment as a radiation worker. (9) Personnel exposure records shall be kept on permanent available file at the facility where the exposure occurs. (10) Monitoring devices used to estimate whole body exposure shall normally be worn on the chest or abdomen. Monitoring of all other body parts shall comply with R 333.5065. (11) Monitoring devices worn to estimate personnel occupational exposure shall not be worn by the individual when he or she is exposed as a patient for a medical or dental reason. (12) Medical x-ray screen type films and intensifying screens shall be employed to reduce patient exposure except in cases where a noticeable decrease in image definition resulting from increased sensitivity may reduce the clinical value of the examination. (13) Film processing materials and techniques shall be those recommended by the x- ray film and processing materials manufacturers unless otherwise tested to ensure maximum information content of the developed film. Sight developing is not permitted except under extreme emergency conditions. Correct temperature control and development time are necessary to minimize radiation dose to the patient. (14) A radiographic x-ray system shall not be left unattended without locking the apparatus, room, or building in some manner which prevents use of the apparatus by unauthorized persons. FIXED FLUOROSCOPIC INSTALLATIONS