University of Calgary

Radiation Safety Program

Researchers, Graduate Students and Staff may find themselves using or being near sources of radiation.  Some of these sources are potentially hazardous.  The word "radiation" here can mean anything from microwave communication systems, ultraviolet, laser light, to X-rays, to subatomic emissions and particles from nuclear substances ("radioactive materials").   If an individual receives an exposure, each of these different types of radiation has the potential to cause harm to an individual, either immediately like a burn from an ultraviolet lamp, laser or microwave, or as an increased potential risk of cancer.

Environment, Health and Safety (EH&S) is responsible for providing training and information on the unique hazards from these types of sources and each form of radiation.  Licensing, acquisition and safe use of radiation sources, such as nuclear substances, comes under control of EHS.  All questions and inquiries regarding Radiation Safety should be directed to radsafe@ucalgary.ca

 

Nuclear Substances (Radioactive Materials)

The University of Calgary has developed a Radiation Safety Manual in order to provide guidance to ensure both a safe working / learning environment and to assist in the requirement for compliance to federal and provincial legislation / guidelines pertaining to acquisition, use and disposal of radioactive materials.

Radioisotope Permit

Faculty members must apply for a Radioisotope Permit prior to purchasing, using, or storing radioactive materials. Prior to issuing a permit a completed application form must be sent to EH&S. The Radiation Safety Officer will meet with the applicant to discuss the requirements of the proposed research activities. There will be a subsequent inspection of the specific laboratories where the research will be conducted.

 

Radiation Emitting Devices (X-ray units and lasers)

The University of Calgary has developed Manuals for radiation emitting devices specifically the Laser Safety Program and the Radiation Emitting Devices Research X-ray Safety Program.  The safety programs reference the applicable sections from the Alberta Radiation Protection Act and Regulation and reference documents.  All occupational exposures to both ionizing and non ionizing radiation shall be limited in accordance with the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) and within legislated prescribed dose limits. 

The University of Calgary's Radiation Emitting Devices Research X-ray Safety Program is designed to keep exposures to ALARA through training and implementation of standard operating procedures and protocols to control the storage, use and disposal of laser and X-ray generating and emitting equipment.

 

Registration Certificates for Radiation Emitting Devices will be issued upon receipt of a completed application form and inspection of the equipment by EH&S.  The Radiation Safety Officer will meet with the applicant to discuss the requirements of the proposed research activities. There will be a subsequent inspection of the specific equipment where the research will be conducted.

DOES YOUR RADIATION EQUIPMENT NEED TO BE REGISTERED?

Certain designated radiation equipment in commercial, industrial, educational, research or entertainment facilities must be inspected and registered.

The listed equipment includes:

  • Class 3b and Class 4 lasers

 and the following types of x-ray equipment:

  • diagnostic,
  • diffraction and analytical,
  • cabinet,
  • industrial radiographic,
  • irradiation,
  • security and baggage inspection.

 

Registration Package for Radiation Emitting Devices

Links for frequently accessed information can be found below:

 

Click HERE for a listing of radioisotope safety training courses offered by EH&S.

  

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