Ionising Radiation Safety Management Protocol

1. The purpose of our protocol

Our protocol sets out how we safely manage ionising radiation at Adelaide University (AU) to ensure that exposure is kept to a minimum.

This protocol should be read in conjunction with the Hazard Management Procedure, the Plant/Equipment Safety Management Protocol, Chemical Safety Management Protocol, and the University Radiation Management Plan, which gives effect to the Wellbeing and Safety Policy.

2. Our protocol applies to

2.1 Inclusions

members of our Adelaide University Community involved in the purchase, storage, handling, use, and disposal of ionising radiation sources and apparatus for research, teaching, or support services.

2.2 Exclusions

Non-ionising radiation
Exempt activities/items table I.3 (naturally occurring radiation) or table I.1 for all other nucleotides) of the IAEA Safety Standards and Schedule 4 of the Radiation Protection and Control Regulations 2022.
In AU there will be no uranium conversion/enrichment activities occur, i.e. converting (from uranium oxide to uranium hexafluoride) or enriching (altering the isotopic composition) of uranium.

2.3 Additional requirements

Dentistry and dental apparatus also refer to Code of Practice and Safety Guide for Radiation Protection in Dentistry (2005) ARPANSA.
Fixed radiation gauges also refer to Code of Practice and Safety Guide for Safe Use of Fixed Radiation Gauges (2007) ARPANSA.
Industrial radiography also refer to Code of Radiation Protection Requirements for Industrial Radiography (2018) ARPANSA.
Medical exposures also refer to Code for Radiation Protection in Medical Exposure (2019) ARPANSA.
Radioactive chemicals also refer to Chemical Safety Management Protocol.
Veterinary medicine also refer to Code of Practice and Safety Guide for Radiation Protection in Veterinary Medicine (2009) ARPANSA.

3. Our hot work management protocols

3.1 Roles and responsibility

University roles and responsibilities for managing Wellbeing and Safety risks, are set out in the Hazard Management Procedure.

3.2 Ensuring ionising radiation management

The table below outlines key roles and responsibilities for end-to-end ionising radiation management.

Role	Responsibilities	Protocols
Licensed Supervisors	Must: ensure hazards associated with ionising radiation are identified and managed. provide information, training, instruction, and an appropriate level of supervision, to staff, students, and others where relevant. report hazards/incidents identified through Unisafe.	You are required to: General be licensed, when required for your work and for those unlicensed individuals you supervise. (includes dentists and veterinary specialists). be registered with the University so that personal monitoring can be organised (Appendix C) (for exemptions see Appendix H), consult with University Radiation Safety Officer (URSO), Local Radiation Safety Officer (LRSO) or Wellbeing and Safety (W&S) before any work listed in (refer to knowledge article in Services Hub) is undertaken for the first time. conduct activities (refer to knowledge article in Services Hub) in accordance with the associated codes. consider radiation principles before undertaking an activity (refer to knowledge article in Services Hub) conduct risk assessments and implement controls (including monitoring devices) to ensure exposure is limited to under the AU dose constraint see 3.3.discontinue using radiation for 12 months if 20 milliSv has been, or is likely to be, reached. provide information, instruction or training (IIT) as per, (Appendix A). review dose reports and participate in investigations when required. ensure that all dosimeters (where required) are returned to the provider or W&S team. inform W&S team when a worker ceases radiation work Premises, sealed sources, apparatus appropriately manage and register premises, or sealed sources, or apparatus, (Appendix B, D, E) and implement conditions of registration. participate in investigation initiated by either LRSO or URSO. secure locations to prevent unauthorised access to radiation. ensure that all equipment used to measure radiation is calibrated. contribute to annual waste management plan if you are a supervisor of unsealed premise. Disposal implement the requirements for disposal including sale, gifting, relocating, decommissioning (Appendix E). Emergency management (Appendix F) report incidents, leakage, loss or contamination identified through Unisafe.  premises contain appropriate spill kits and workers are trained. Records Enter the following into Historion (refer to 3.6 for transition arrangements) records for equipment testing and maintenance Information instruction and training (IIT) records Licences and permits
Local Radiation Safety Officers (LRSO) (where appointed)		You are required to: support the Licenced supervisors and University Radiation Safety Officer (URSO) with their activities (when required). manage dosimeters for student placements. conduct investigation of radiation incidents or accidents and assist URSO with any notifiable incidents. assist (when requested) in applicants to prepare for the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) licence exam. act as the URSO during absences.
Radiation Workers (staff & students)	Must: ensure hazards associated with ionising radiation are identified and managed. follow reasonable instructions and work practices to maintain their own and others’ wellbeing and safety   report hazards/incidents identified through Unisafe.	You are required to: be either licensed or work under a licenced supervisor (refer to Appendix B and Appendix H) be registered with the University. participate with training and induction. conduct risk assessments using the radiation protection principles (and Appendix B) and implement controls (including monitoring devises). wear dosimeters (if required) and know the rules around them (Appendix C) cease radiation work for 12 months if 20 milliSv has been, or is likely to be, reached.
Wellbeing & Safety (W&S) team		You are required to: Administration determine the requirements of licensing and personal monitoring assist or manage personal dosimeters administration for staff. ensure that the URSO is recognised by the EPA as a Radiation Safety Adviser. manage the engagement of external expertise when required. act as the Historion administrator provide training to users and liaise with vendor. Auditing and investigations audit in accordance with the licence to possess. coordinate wipe testing and annual audits. ensure that an investigation occurs if an individual is likely to receive an exposure of greater than the AU dose constraint see 3.3. Regulatory framework and records management maintain framework and all records, required for compliance. assist URSO with all regulatory activities and prepare documents for The Australian Safeguards and Non-Proliferation Office (ANSO) and EPA. ensure that the University Radiation Safety Officer (URSO) is meeting regulatory duties. ensure records are recorded onto external registers ASNO and National Dose Register. Legacy holdings and waste Manage of all legacy holdings, waste stores and disposal of waste.
University Radiation Safety Officer	Must: ensure hazards associated with ionising radiation are identified and managed.	You are required to: ensure that the University is complying with the requirements of the Act and Regulations. advise the University on all aspects of radiation safety. carry out the duties as set out for a Radiation Protection Adviser in Australian Standard 2243.4 (2018) and in the Regulations, and include advice, training, waste management and general supervision of radiation safety in the University investigate any incident and if an individual is likely to receive an exposure of greater than the AU dose constraint see 3.3. assist (when requested) applicants to prepare for the EPA licence exam. conduct 12 monthly wipe-testing of sealed radioactive sources and maintain records of testing. review and summit all documents for ANSO and EPA. investigate and report to EPA any notifiable radiation incidents (where the incident meets the definition in schedule 3 of the Regulations).

3.3 Dose Constraint

A dose constraint is the level of exposure that is not expected to be exceeded at the Adelaide University. It is not the legal dose limit. The legal dose limit is 20 milliSievert (mSv) a year. However, the University is committed to an interim occupational dose constraint of 1mSv for all teaching activities and 5mSv for research/clinical activities a year. If a radiation worker is approaching 1mSv/5mSv in a 12month period, the circumstances will be investigated. After investigation an individual will be asked to modify their radiation work. If a radiation worker approaches 20mSv in a 12-month period, they will be stopped from doing further work with ionising radiation until the results of an investigation has been completed.

Finger Dosimeters

The legislated allowable occupational annual radiation exposure limit to the hands for radiation workers is 500mSv in a year. When the University’s safety factor is applied, this translates to 25 mSv/year, and approx. 6 mSv per quarter. Therefore, any finger badge dose which receives over 6 mSv in a quarter will be investigated.

3.4 Pregnancy or conception

For information on ionising radiation impact on pregnancy or conception please refer to our safety knowledge articles.

3.5 Irradiation of people for research purposes

All use of radiation in research on people is required to be authorised by the Adelaide University Human Ethics Committee

Provide Human Ethics Committee with an independent medical physicist report Ensure that procedures in place using the principles of justification and optimisation outlined in Regulation 105.

Contact the University Radiation Safety Officer or W&S team to assist with these requirements.

3.6 Historion transition arrangements

Historion is a radiation specific software platform which captures dose results for radiation workers, schedules maintenance and testing of apparatus, and holds licences and permits.

During 2026, W&S team will undertake a project of uploading all data (including non-ionising radiation) into the system from both foundation institutions. During this period W&S will commence a gradual cut over (including training) of certain activities to the owners of apparatus/premises and will implement features of dose administration.

4. Definitions used in our protocol

The following definitions are applicable to this protocol, for generic Adelaide University definitions refer to the Glossary of Terms.

Adelaide University Community refers to a broad range of stakeholders who engage with Adelaide University and includes (but is not limited to) all students, staff, and non-staff members of Adelaide University including alumni, honorary title holders, adjuncts, visiting academics, guest lecturers, volunteers, suppliers, and partners who are engaging with and contributing to the work of Adelaide University.   (The term Adelaide University Community is used instead of the term Worker as defined in the Work Health and Safety Act 2012 (SA)).

Accredited compliance test – is a test or tests performed by a person holding an accreditation granted under section 30 of the Act and acting under the authority conferred under section 31 of the Act.

Becquerels (Bq) - is a measure of the radioactivity of a source. It is defined as the activity of a quantity of radioactive material in which one nucleus decays per second.

Conditions of registration – these are conditions which you must abide by from EPA. These are found on the second page of your licence or the premise, apparatus or sealed source permit.

Historion – is the technology platform which captures dose results for radiation workers, schedules maintenance and testing of apparatus, and holds licences and permits.

License – is a qualification granted from the Radiation Protection Branch of the Environment Protection Authority (“EPA”) South Australia.

Records – For this protocol all radiation records including but not limited to dose reports, applications, licenses, deregistration, incidents investigations, protocols, handbook, audit findings, contamination results, wipe test results, safety management plan, waste management plan, radiation registers in accordance with Records Management Office, Radiation Protection Act and the State Records Act.

Direct supervision is when a person, licensed under the Act for that activity, is physically present and directing an individual undertaking an activity. The supervisor gives directions to the person prior to the activity and while undertaking the activity and ensures that radiation safety requirements are followed.

Dose constraint: A dose constraint is the organisationally set level of radiation exposure that is not expected to be exceeded at the Adelaide University (see 3.3).

Dosimeter: also refer to as OSL (Optically Stimulated Luminescence) or TLD (Thermoluminescent Dosimeter): are badges worn by radiation workers to monitor occupational exposure to radiation.

Effective dose (also refer to as absorbed dose or equivalent dose) - is the sum of equivalent doses of ionising radiation for all tissues and organs of the body determined by adding together each equivalent dose for a tissue or organ after it has been multiplied by the tissue weighting factor appropriate to that type of tissue or organ. It is the probability of a harmful effect from radiation exposure depends on what part or parts of the body are exposed.

Environment Protection Authority (EPA): the Government Department that regulates the use of ionising radiation in medical, research, industrial and mining organisations, including use of X-rays, and the safe use, transport, storage and disposal of radioactive substances in South Australia.

Indirect supervision is when a person, licensed under the Act for that activity and working in the same premises or for the organisation, has oversight and provides directions to a supervised person for the activity undertaken, but does not constantly observe the person. The supervisor gives directions to the person prior to the activity, sufficient to ensure safety, and sets in place measures to verify that radiation safety requirements are followed. The supervisor must be accessible to the supervised person.

Industrial radiography is the act of utilising radiation generators, sealed radioactive sources, exposure containers and industrial radiography equipment to form an image of the internal state of an inanimate object or material which may be evaluated visually, instrumentally, or digitally.

Ionising radiation: radiation which produces electrically charged particles known as ions in the materials it strikes. This process is called ionisation.

Licensed Supervisor: a person who has an EPA licence for the activity being undertaken and is responsible for supervising unlicensed workers who use ionising radiation. Note that this person could be a person who does not have formal line management for the worker.

Millisieverts (mSv) and microsieverts (uSv or µSv): a measure of a dose of radiation that a radiation worker receives.

Notifiable radiation incident: in accordance with Regulation 95 is a notifiable radiation incident is a radiation incident declared by Schedule 3 of the Regulations (for broad categories refer to Appendix G) which are required to be reported to the EPA.

Radiation Incident: is any unintended occurrence involving a radiation source which results in, or has the potential to result in, an exposure to ionising radiation to any person or the environment that is outside the range of what is normally expected for a particular practice, and includes an occurrence resulting from operator error, equipment failure or the failure of the management system that warrants investigation.

Radiation protection principles: This principle is set out within the Radiation Protection and Control Act 2021 and defines that people, and the environment should be protected from unnecessary exposure to radiation through the processes of justification, limitation and optimisation. When conducting a risk assessment or designing research or teaching activities using radiation, take the following into consideration:

Justification – is weighing the detriment versus the benefits of using radiation and only undertaking the activity if the benefits outweigh the detriment.

Limitation – which is setting dose limits or specifying radiation emissions or absorption standards and implementing controls to ensure that the limits, emissions or standards are met. Also, to be aware that the University dose limit is 1 mSv which is monitored quarterly by those radiation workers who are issued a personal dosimeter.

Optimisation of protection – means to keep the magnitude of the individual dose to as low as reasonably achievable by using controls.

Radiation Work: is defined as all work involved with ionising radiation. For example, purchasing, using, and disposal of sealed, unsealed and x-ray apparatus.

Radiation Worker: is defined as all staff, students, visitors, and volunteers, who either hold an EPA license or are unlicenced and are working with ionising radiation.

Hazards/Incidents - any safety concern (hazard, near miss, injury/illness) that occurs in an area or location that the University controls or owns or is an activity that the University directly controls (such as a field activity). It can be an issue involving staff, volunteers, students, members of the public or contractors.

Sealed radioactive material: (a sealed source) includes low activity calibration sources, irradiators and neutron sources, and may be fixed or portable.

Premises: is the location licenced by EPA and the classification of premises depends on the group(s) of radionuclides which are kept or handled. In the University the majority of types are C which is the lowest classification (also referred to as low level laboratory), for more information refer to Tables 3.1 & 3.2 AS 2243.4-2018 Safety in laboratories - Ionising Radiation.

University Radiation Safety Officer (URSO): a person who conducts the duties as set out for a Radiation Protection Adviser in AS 2243.4-2018 Safety in laboratories - Ionising Radiation and in the Regulations, including advice, training, waste management and general supervision of radiation safety in the University and is recognised by the Radiation Protection Branch of the EPA as suitably qualified to conduct these activities.

X-ray analysis apparatus: an apparatus that is used to analyse the properties or composition of materials by the techniques of X-ray fluorescence (XRF) or X-ray diffraction (XRD).

X-ray diagnostic apparatus: an ionising radiation apparatus that is used for imaging humans and animals for the purpose of diagnosis, visualisation or intervention.

5. How our protocol is governed

5.1 Compliance

Ionising radiation safety management at Adelaide University is conducted in compliance with the following established regulations and guidelines:

Legislation & Code of Practice

Australian Standards and other resources

Useful Web-links

Environment Protection Authority, Radiation Protection Branch
Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA)
General discussions of the principles and philosophy of radiation protection, and data and models for dose limits, can be found in the publications of ICRP (International Commission on Radiological Protection) and IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency)

5.2 Governance

This protocol is categorised, approved and owned in line with the governance structure of Adelaide University and the offices and officers listed below.

Parent procedure	Authority to create and maintain this protocol is granted under the Hazard Management Procedure
Policy category	Corporate
Approving authority	Executive Director People, Advisory and Wellbeing
Policy owner	Deputy Vice Chancellor People and Culture
Responsible manager	Deputy Vice Chancellor People and Culture or their delegate
Effective from	01 January 2026
Review date	01 January 2029
Enquiries	Wellbeing and Safety Team
Replaced documents	None

6. History of changes

Date approved	To section/clauses	Description of change
28 Jan 2026	N/A	New protocol

Note on structures, positions and position titles:

At the time of writing, the organisational structure, positions and position titles for Adelaide University have not all been confirmed. Accordingly, square brackets [ ] temporarily enclose position titles in this procedure until position titles for Adelaide University are known.

Appendix A

 SUPERVISION, INFORMATION, INSTRUCTION AND TRAINING 

Type	Requires an EPA licensed supervisor	Requires everyone to be EPA licensed	General radiation Information (Refer to note 4)	Specific task information	Direct Supervision (Refer to note 5)	Indirect supervision (Refer to note 5)
Unsealed Sources in a C type lab	Yes	No Refer to note 6	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
XRD (fully enclosed)	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
XRF (enclosed primary beam)	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
XRF  (handheld)	Yes	Yes for exemption refer to note 6	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA for EPA licensed operators/Yes for exemption note 6	NA for EPA licensed operators/ Yes for exemption note 6
Sealed sources - probes	Yes	Yes	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators
Sealed sources – other (not radioactive) Refer to note 1	No	No	No	No	NA	NA
Sealed sources – other (Under licensed supervision) Refer to note 2	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Sealed sources – other (handled by licensed person only) Refer to note 3	Yes	Yes	NA for EPA licensed operators	NA for EPA licensed operators	NA for EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators
Students using ionising apparatus not holding a licence Refer to note 6	Yes	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	NA Direct supervision only
DEXA (densitometer for animals or humans)	Yes	Yes/Exemption note 6	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators.
Xrays used for imaging (operator) Refer to note 9	Yes	Yes/Exemption note 6 &7	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators	NA only EPA licensed operators

Note 1.	Not radioactive is all radionuclides which are classified as at an exempt activity according to table I.3 (naturally occurring radiation) or table I.1 for all other nucleotides) of the IAEA Safety Standards).
Note 2.	Conducted under licensed supervisor Group 1 & 2 less than 5MBq.   Group 3 and 4 radionuclides (not including tritium in gaseous tritium light sources) less than 50 MBq.  Tritium in gaseous tritium light sources less than 20 GBq.
Note 3.	Must be licensed  Group 1 and 2 greater than 5 MBq.   Group 3 and 4 greater than 50MBq. Tritium in gaseous tritium light sources greater than 20 GBq.
Note 4.	General Radiation Information could include (where applicable):  Radiation basics (properties of ionising radiation);  Radiation (hazards; effects; dose limits; conversions);   Measurement (dose rates; quantifying dose; weighting factor; meters; personal dosimeters; exposures);  Keeping safe (time, distance, shielding);  Legal requirements;  University requirements;  X-ray unit specifics;  Sealed source specifics;  Unsealed substances specifics.  The licenced supervisor must have a written method for assessing competency into the procedure (including observation and practical assessment) and include details of how directions will be conveyed to the unlicensed person.
Note 5.	Direct supervision and indirect supervision (see definitions) are required to satisfy the legislative requirements of radiation workers working without an EPA licence. If the requirements for direct and indirect supervision cannot be satisfied, then the worker must have an EPA license.
Note 6.	For any ionising apparatus which requires a licence there is an exemption for students from holding a licence - students using or handling radioactive material are exempt from licensing under Regulation 17(2b) and 18(1b) Regulation 17(2b); 18 (1b) states “that persons enrolled in secondary or tertiary education where the use of radioactive material/operation of ionising radiation apparatus is required as part of the education curriculum and is under the supervision of a person holding a radiation use licence authorising the use are not required themselves to hold a licence.” However, the licensed supervisor must provide direct supervision
Note 7.	Unlicenced veterinary nurses/technologists/assistants are not allowed to operate the apparatus, only an EPA licensed veterinary nurses/veterinary technologist/ veterinary surgeons/ radiographer are allowed to operate x-ray apparatus. The only exception for unlicenced veterinary nurses/assistants is if a licenced veterinary surgeon/nurse/technologist or radiographer have to hold the animal during the imaging where they are unable to operate the apparatus, the licenced person may then instruct the unlicenced nurse/assistant to undertake the radiograph on their behalf.
Note 8.	Supervision in this context, is that the EPA licenced veterinary nurses/veterinary technologist/ veterinary surgeons/ radiographer must be present in the x-ray room and are directly conducting the activity.  Refer to Appendix H
Note 9.	As at 2024 the EPA is now permitting Bachelor of Veterinary Technology graduates and Cert IV in Vet nursing to apply for licenses (if they desire), they will also consider veterinary nursing qualifications from other countries if these qualifications are recognised in Australia by the VCNA. The licences will not require an exam to obtain however will restrict the licensee to routine veterinary radiography and will not include CT or Fluoroscopy operations.

Appendix B

HAZARD MANAGEMENT, MONITORING TASKS and EQUIPMENT

UNSEALED SOURCES

Hazard Management

For hazards associated with unsealed sources (refer to knowledge article in Services Hub)

Monitoring

Two types of monitoring are used in laboratories with unsealed radioactive materials:

measurement of the external radiation field; and
measurement of contamination of benches, equipment and workers by the radioactive material.

An exemption from personal monitoring exists for users of certain radionuclides for example H3, C14 and other radionuclides in limited quantities such as S35 (See Appendix H).

Monitoring is to be carried out with a survey meter suitable for the type of radiation being used. It is essential that each laboratory and area have ready access to a detector that can be used to monitor surface contamination and spills. In some cases, contamination will have to be checked using a wipe test (see section at the end of this Appendix).

External radiation field

Monitoring Techniques for External radiation fields

Monitors should be checked before use in a low background area and with a known source to verify their proper operation. (Calibration of monitors are to be aligned with the manufacturer’s instructions).
If the radiation field is much greater than expected do not continue the survey. Exit, close off the area and seek help from your licensed supervisor or the University Radiation Safety Officer.
Always measure the external field from a new supply of radionuclide before opening it.
Measure the radiation field close to the source and at the distances where you will be using the material (at the hands and at the body).
Estimate your body dose from the measured dose rate and your expected working time. This should normally be less than 2microSv per hour but needs to be considered in relation to the time taken for the operation. If it is more than expected consult your licensed supervisor.
Ensure that you have pre-calculated numbers and actions listed on the local working rules.

Contamination

The amount of radioactive material on a surface (contamination) is generally expressed in terms of counts per second. Contamination limits are expressed in Becquerel per square cm.

Monitoring for contamination should be carried out routinely so that contamination is to be kept to a minimum on surfaces and the below the recommended levels as per Table B2 AS 2243.4-2018 Safety in laboratories - Ionising Radiation.

If a researcher at the Adelaide University is using a radiation monitor to detect surface contamination of unsealed radiation, the monitors will only require calibration once every 3 years (based on an assessment of risk by the University Radiation Safety Officer).

Monitoring Techniques for Contamination of low energy unsealed sources by Wipe Tests

For very low energy beta emitters such as H3, the wipe test is the only satisfactory check for contamination. For instructions on the technique, Refer to knowledge article in Services Hub.

SEALED SOURCES

Code of Practice for Portable Density/Moisture Gauges Containing Radioactive Sources (2004) ARPANSA

Refer to this code for monitoring and radiation levels, storage and transport and other requirements for all self-contained surface, or near surface, portable density/moisture gauges that incorporate one or more radioactive sources (excluding bore holes density devises greater than 10 metres).

General Hazards

In general, sealed sources present an external radiation hazard. With fixed sources, shielding normally reduces the external radiation dose rate to acceptable levels. With portable sources, there may be a conflict between the thickness of the shielding and the portability. Calibration and demonstration sources are weaker, but their small physical size and portability can lead to the external dose becoming an issue if they are misplaced, lost or stolen.

If the sealed capsule is corroded or broken the radioactive material can leak out. The activity of the radionuclides in sealed sources is usually much higher than the activities of unsealed radioactive materials used in laboratories, so a leak from a broken source will be a major contamination hazard. It is an event requiring immediate notification to the EPA.

Portable density/moisture gauges

Maintenance and Checking of Sealed Sources

Repairs, maintenance and modifications to sealed sources must never be carried out unless the University Radiation Safety Officer, after consulting the Radiation Protection Branch of the EPA, has given explicit written permission for the work.
A program must be implemented of routinely checking that the source mechanics (mechanism which returns the source to the shielded area) are working correctly. Mechanical failure can make it impossible for the source to return to its shielded container or cause the source to become loose during transport.
Do not continue to attempt to use a source that has any difficulties in its operation.
Report all such operational problems immediately to your licensed supervisor and to W&S team.

Monitoring and Wipe Tests

The purpose of monitoring a sealed source is to make sure that the shielding is intact and the source is properly housed inside the shield. An annual dose rate survey around the source shield using a dose rate meter should be conducted by the licensed supervisor.

The sealed source or its housing shall be examined for contamination and integrity, and wipe tests will be conducted every 12 months by the University Radiation Safety Officer (or URSO approved person), normally at the time of renewal of the source registration.

X-RAY ANALYSIS UNITS

Hazard Management

For general requirements, working rules and hazard management when working with ionising radiation refer to Code of Practice for Protection against Ionizing Radiation Emitted from X-ray Analysis equipment (1984) ARPANSA

Monitoring

All X-ray apparatus (used on humans) must adhere to cyclic compliance testing as outlined by Cyclic compliance testing of diagnostic X-ray apparatus 2024 published by EPA.

Radiation Therapy Apparatus

Code of Compliance for Radiation Therapy Apparatus 2022 EPA

Refer to this code for the mandatory requirements for the construction and installation of apparatus used for radiation therapy, including X-ray apparatus integrated with the radiation therapy unit used for treatment image guidance, where such apparatus is not standalone dental or medical class diagnostic X-ray apparatus.

Medical, Veterinary and Chiropractic

Code of Compliance for medical, veterinary and chiropractic X-ray apparatus 2022 EPA.

Refer to this code for the testing and other special requirements for fixed, mobile, and portable apparatus used or designed to be used for— (a) mammography or soft tissue radiography (b) medical or veterinary computed tomography (c) medical or veterinary fluoroscopy (d) medical, veterinary or chiropractic plain radiography (e) medical X-ray absorptiometry

This code prevails to the extent of any other codes or documents published by ARPANSA

Dental

Code of Compliance for Dental X-ray Apparatus Used for Plain, Panoramic & Cephalometric radiography and Cone-beam Computed Tomography 2022 EPA

Refer to this code for the testing and other special requirements for dental x-ray apparatus.

Compliance testing - The apparatus and all items of equipment necessary for its safe operation must be maintained in good working order. Dental apparatus used on humans must undergo cyclic compliance testing with a frequency once every five years. The cyclic testing for dental apparatus will be introduced in South Australia from February 2026. Until the commencement of cyclic testing in February 2026, the apparatus must undergo annual servicing as per the manufacturer recommendations.

Until February 2026 the following must be completed

Monitoring must be done after any radiation incident or accident involving the apparatus, or after a service.
Regular radiation monitoring of the X-ray analysis units must be carried out at least every 6 months, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Checks of all the interlocks and warning lights must be carried out at least every 6 months.
A record must be kept of all the radiation surveys, interlock checks and checks of the warning lights (placing these in Historion).

Appendix C

PERSONAL MONITORING (Dosimeters)

The University has undertaken a review of certain activities in order to exclude the need for wearing dosimeters for those activities that the annual effective dose will not exceed 1 mSv under normal conditions and not exceed a 20 mSv effective dose. Refer to Appendix H for those activities which an exemption has been included in the radiation management plan. 

When registering as a Radiation Worker you will be advised by W&S if a dosimeter is required and which type (body or finger monitor) depending on the work you are undertaking.  

The cost for the dosimeter will be borne by the local area, and the local area will receive accounts accordingly.  

Wearing of Radiation Dosimeters 

Before starting an operation, all individuals participating must ensure they are wearing their approved personal dosimeters. 
The monitor is worn at waist or chest height and underneath protective devices such as lead rubber or lead plastic aprons. 
Do not place objects such as coins, pens, etc in front of approved personal dosimeters. 
A monitor is only to be worn by one person.  You must never wear a monitor assigned to another person (please contact W&S team if you do not have an alternative).

Finger Dosimeters

The legislated allowable occupational annual radiation exposure limit to the hands for radiation workers is 500 milliSievert (mSv) in a calendar year. When the University’s safety factor is applied, this translates to 25 mSv/year, and approx. 6 mSv per quarter. Therefore, any finger badge dose which receives over 6 mSv in a quarter will be investigated.

Storage of Dosimeters  

The “control” dosimeter measures background radiation and should be stored where background radiation levels are low and away from direct fluorescent light (e.g. a drawer). 
When not in use the approved personal dosimeter should be stored with the “control”. 
“Controls” must be returned to the monitoring provider with the batch of approved personal dosimeters with which they are issued.

Storage and handling of Personal Dosimeters during Domestic and International Air travel 

People working in different locations should have their own control badge (series) even if they are with the one group.  
Do not place the dosimeter in checked luggage. At the security screening point (at airport, sky train, high speed train, subway way, any location which has a security scan) take the dosimeter out of the baggage and ask the security personnel to pass it around the luggage screening x-ray machine.
If you accidentally leave your dosimeter in checked luggage or carry-on, then when returning the dosimeter at the end of the monitoring period, note on the monitor detail form returned with the dosimeters which personal monitors went through carry-on or accidentally put in checked luggage, whether it was for domestic or international flights, and the total number of times it went through a screening x-ray machine. 
When not in use the approved dosimeter should be stored with the “control”. 
“Controls” must be returned to the monitoring provider with the batch of approved dosimeters with which they are issued. The dosimeters will be adjusted with the recorded reading of the “control” to reflect the actual personal readings for each user.

Appendix D

FACILITIES, STORAGE, TRANSPORTATION and RECORD-KEEPING

All new facilities (containing sealed, unsealed or x-ray apparatus) must be approved by the University Radiation Safety Officer to ensure compliance to Code of Compliance for Facility Design and Shielding 2022 EPA.

UNSEALED SOURCES

All laboratories in which radionuclides are used and stored must be classified and registered with HSW Team and the EPA. General requirements for classes of facilities using unsealed sources are in Table 3.4 AS 2243.4-2018 Safety in laboratories - Ionising Radiation.

Additional requirements

If an operation or process carried out in a laboratory is likely to produce airborne radioactivity more than the concentration that could result in a radiation worker receiving an annual limit on intake due to inhalation, a fume cupboard must be provided.
The working rules and emergency procedures must be displayed in the laboratory.
Visits by people other than registered radiation workers should be minimised if possible and they should be warned not to touch anything that may cause contamination.
The laboratory is to be locked when no registered radiation workers are present.
Display in a prominent position a sign that contains a prohibition against eating, drinking, and smoking on the premises.

Signage and labelling

The entrance door of the premise must carry the radiation symbol and a warning sign, state the words " RADIATION AREA” or “STORE FOR RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL” and,
- The type of premise (note that most types within the University are Type C)
- Has a sign on the entrance with the name and phone number of the licensed supervisor & URSO and the person to contact in the event of an emergency.
- The sign must be no less than 4500 square mm surface area and comply with the requirements of AS 1319-1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment applying to warning signs.
- The sign must be legible from a distance of 2m.
All work benches where unsealed isotopes are used and sinks/drains that are used to carry radioactive effluent must be labelled with radiation symbol.
All radioactive materials (including stored samples and waste) must be labelled with a radiation symbol; the quantity, activity and type of radioactive material; the name of the licensed supervisor and date. However if the size does not allow this then contact HSW team for alternatives
Storage areas (including refrigerators) must be marked with the appropriate radiation signs.

Storage

Radioactive materials must be stored within a labelled facility which is licensed by the EPA and have reasonable precautions against unauthorised access (e.g. room locked when unattended).
Always store radionuclides according to directions given in the manufacturer’s specification sheets.
Where possible radionuclides should be stored in a double container, with the outer one of plastic in case of breakage.
Radionuclides at all times must be appropriately shielded.
Never leave radionuclides in unsealed containers in cold rooms or refrigerators.
Make sure that containers that will be frozen are not full and cannot break on freezing. Use an outer container as a precaution.
Ensure that no food or drinks are stored in radiation storage locations.

Transportation

The legislation does not apply to excepted packages which is a package if it meets one of the following conditions: (b) it contains instruments or articles not exceeding the activity limits specified in Table 4 in ARPANSA’s Code (d) it contains radioactive material not exceeding the activity limits specified in Table 4 in ARPANSA’s Code

Consignment notification must go with the source. The notification must contain:
- sufficient information to enable the identification of the package or packages, including all applicable certificate numbers and identification marks.
- information on the date of shipment, the expected date of arrival and the proposed routeing.
- the name(s) of the radioactive material(s) or nuclide(s).
- descriptions of the physical and chemical forms of the radioactive material, or whether it is special form radioactive material or low dispersible radioactive material. The maximum activity of the radioactive contents during transport expressed in units of becquerels (Bq).
Licensed persons are required for transportation of unsealed sources (excluding excepted packages). Contact W&S team before undertaking any transportation of unsealed sources.

Record-Keeping

A register of unsealed sources must be maintained for each laboratory that contains the:

radionuclides contained in the laboratory and their activity or nominal activity.
date to which the activity refers and the date when the substance entered the laboratory.
physical and chemical nature of each material.
name of the person in charge of the material.
place of storage or use.
date and manner of disposal.

Note that entries on the register must be made within 24 hours after each unsealed radioactive material kept or handled at the premises is first taken onto the premises and be auditable format either internally or by the regulator.

SEALED SOURCES

Signage

The entrance door of the location that the source is kept must carry the radiation symbol and a warning sign, state the words " RADIATION AREA” or “STORE FOR RADIOACTIVE MATERIAL”,
Has the name and phone number of the person to contact in the event of an emergency
The sign must be no less than 4 500 square mm surface area and comply with the requirements of AS 1319-1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment applying to warning signs.
The sign must be legible from a distance of 2m.

Labelling

The source or outer container must be labelled with “Radioactive”; the quantity, activity, and type of radioactive material; the name of the licensed supervisor and date.

Storage

Where applicable, the source/s assembly must be fully retracted and key locked into the shielded position.
The gauge must not be stored with explosives, combustible, corrosive or oxidising chemicals.
The room must be locked unless a licensed person is present and accessible only by authorised people.
The ambient dose does not exceed 10 microSv/hour and so that a member of the public does not receive a dose exceeding 1mSv per year.

Transportation

The Code of Practice for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material controls the transport of all radioactive materials on public roads, rail and waterways (under Australian jurisdiction). In practice it is only neutron moisture probes that are regularly moved via public roads. The general radiation hazard from these sources could be considerably increased if there is a road accident and emergency services and other aid workers are not aware that a radiation hazard exists.

Transport Arrangements

Only licensed persons may transport sealed sources.
The transport arrangements must be such that the source is always secured.
The source must not be transported in the passenger compartment of the vehicle and must be carried as far away as possible from the driver and any passengers.
The source must be able to be securely locked and carry signs saying "Warning - Radioactive" with the radiation symbol and the name and telephone number of the person responsible for the source.
The source must be securely fixed in the vehicle and the source must not be able to break loose in normal situations.

For transportation of gauges the source/s the assembly must be fully retracted and key locked into the shielded position.

Vehicle Labels and Notices

The vehicle must be labelled with 3 vehicle labels of the type described in the Code of Practice for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material. These Class 7 Dangerous Goods placards must be a minimum of 25cm square, and the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods UN number can be written on this in the white space.
Consignment notification must go with the source. The notification must contain:
- sufficient information to enable the identification of the package or packages, including all applicable certificate numbers and identification marks.
- information on the date of shipment, the expected date of arrival and the proposed routeing.
- the name(s) of the radioactive material(s) or nuclide(s).
- descriptions of the physical and chemical forms of the radioactive material, or whether it is special form radioactive material or low dispersible radioactive material. The maximum activity of the radioactive contents during transport expressed in units of becquerels (Bq).
A notice must be carried in the glovebox giving details of the source, the phone number of the W&S team 0404489059 (who will inform the University Radiation Safety Officer) and the emergency phone number of the Radiation Protection Branch 8463 7826.

Interstate

All sealed sources used/transported interstate must be registered for use in that state. Contact Human Resources if you are intending to undertake this type of activity.

Short Term hire (3 months or less)

Contact the W&S team for details to comply with the requirements of section 59 of the Regulations.

Record-Keeping

Local source register

The licensed supervisor must maintain a local source register with the following details:

the name of the source manufacturer, model or type and serial number
the registered number of the source
the identifying label of the source
the radioactive nuclide, its activity or nominal activity and the date of measurement
if it is a non-fissile neutron source – the target element
if the source is incorporated or mounted in an instrument or other equipment – sufficient information to identify the instrument or other equipment including its manufacturer, model, serial number, date of manufacture and location where it is usually stored
the normal location of the source (storage place)
the name of the licensed person who is responsible for the source.
the date on which the person took possession of the source.
in an auditable format either internally or by the regulator.

When the source is taken off campus, then the register must also contain:

the signature of a licensed person who has taken charge of the source, the time and date of removal and time and date of return to the premises controlled by the University.
the licence plate registration number of that vehicle where applicable.
any temporary location/s, and the site, district or other locality at which the source is to be used/stored.

If sources are used for undergraduate teaching in different laboratories under the supervision of different staff members, one person must be nominated to be responsible for maintaining the register of the day-to-day movements of the sources.

When the source is returned to the premises controlled by the University, the person returning it must:

sign the register on the date on which it is returned; and
report in the register details of any abnormal occurrence that may indicate a fault in the source, capsule, container or control mechanism.

APPARATUS (X-ray)

Labelling

All apparatus must have attached to, or adjacent to, the control which actuates the production of ionising radiation a label which:
Says "RADIATION PRODUCED WHEN ENERGISED" (or similar) with a radiation symbol, and
is clearly legible at a distance of 2 metres.

Facilities

The entrance door or each walkway or access route to the installation must carry the radiation warning sign, state the words "Warning - Radiation Area" or “X-RAYS”,
The sign must be no less than 4 500 square mm surface area and comply with the requirements of AS 1319-1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment.
The sign must be legible at a distance of 2m.
Visits by people other than authorised radiation workers should be minimised if possible and should be warned not to touch the control panel.
The facilities must be locked when no authorised radiation worker is present.

Storage

Unused apparatus must be stored in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and so that unauthorised persons cannot gain access

Transportation

During transportation ensure only authorised access to the equipment.
Ensure the equipment is secured so as to avoid damage to the source.

APPARATUS (XDR & XRF)

Labelling

All apparatus must have attached to, or adjacent to, the control which actuates the production of ionising radiation a label which:
- Says "RADIATION PRODUCED WHEN ENERGISED" (or similar) with a radiation symbol, and
- is clearly legible at a distance of 2 metres.
Also apparatus must be fitted with an illuminated sign or a combination of a light and sign that clearly indicates that the apparatus is energised.

Facilities

A sign must be present at the entry to the room where the XRD is installed which:
- Says "RADIATION AREA" or "X-RAYS" or similar with a radiation symbol, the surface area of the sign must be no less than 4 500 square mm, comply with the requirements of AS 1319-1994 Safety Signs for the Occupational Environment and
- is clearly legible at a distance of 2 metres.
The facilities must be locked when no authorised radiation worker is present. Excluding fully enclosed units the X-ray unit must never be left unattended whilst in operation.

Short Term hire of ionising apparatus (3 months or less)

Contact the W&S team for details to comply with the requirements of section 44 of the Regulations.

APPARATUS Potable XRF (pXRF) – extra requirements

Transportation

Ensure only authorised access to the equipment.
A special register entry is required when an apparatus is taken off campus (for example, a portable X-ray device is taken to a farm).

Interstate

All handheld apparatus and sealed sources used interstate must be registered for use in that state. Please contact W&S team if you are intending to undertake this type of activity.

Record-Keeping

Schools/Institutes must maintain a local apparatus register for portable devices with the following details:
- The identifying details of the apparatus.
- The normal location of the source (storage place).
A licensed person must sign out the apparatus when it is removed from the store and record its temporary location, the time and date. On its return it must be signed in with the time and date.
If apparatus is used for undergraduate teaching in different laboratories under the supervision of different staff members, one person must be nominated to be responsible for maintaining the register of the day-to-day movements of the apparatus.
A special register entry is required when an apparatus is taken off campus (for example, a portable X-ray device is taken to a farm).

Appendix E

DISPOSAL

UNSEALED SOURCES

Radioactive waste is managed by an annual Radioactive Waste Management Plan that is approved by the EPA which is compiled by W&S team (from the local level) and approved by URSO.

EPA approval is not required if the waste meets the requirement of Schedule 1 Code for the Disposal of Radioactive Waste by the User (2018) ARPANSA. Specifically S1.1 for waste to landfill or S1.2 for waste to sewer or S1.3 for waste to atmosphere. If under any doubt consult with the URSO prior to disposal.

Waste categories

In the University radioactive waste is classed by three main types:
1. Solid waste that is taken into short- or long-term storage and subsequently sent out for incineration or disposed as normal waste once decayed below exemption levels.
2. Liquid waste that is miscible with water and is discharged to the sewer.
3. Mixed waste, mainly liquid scintillation fluids in vials. These are treated as solid waste, taken into storage, and where possible sent for incineration.

Aqueous liquid waste

All disposal of aqueous waste going to the sewer must be:

put into designated and properly labelled sink.
accompanied by a minimum amount of water (15L normally).
a solution which is:
- non-hazardous and within the pH range of 6 to 10.
- not a concentrated acid or base.
- not a highly toxic, malodorous (bad odour), or lachrymatory (produces tears) substances.
- not a substance which might interfere with the biological activity of wastewater treatment plants.
- not a chemical which could create fire or explosion hazards,
- not a chemical which could cause structural damage or obstruct flow.
entered in the record of radioactive waste disposal within the laboratory.

Solid waste

Mine waste

All mine waste will be returned to the original mine site where possible.
Contained in a suitable container in preparation for shipping back to the mine site.
The container must be labelled with the nuclide, the activity amount, the laboratory from which it came, the worker and the licenced supervisor.
The information on the label is entered in the record of radionuclides accepted from the mine and sent to back to the mine for disposal. This record is subject to internal and external audits.

Other solid waste

All other solid waste or waste which does not conform to the liquid criteria are to be contained in 20L yellow plastic pails This includes liquid scintillation fluids in the scintillation vials.
Different radionuclides must be kept in separate pails.
The pail must be labelled with the nuclide, the activity amount, the laboratory from which it came, the worker and the licenced supervisor. This information is entered on the standard A6 label, and the label must be taped to the lid of the pail (adhesive tape along one edge only). Importantly no other labelling or writing can appear on a pail.
When a pail is full the lid needs to be hammered down evenly for security.
The information on the label is entered in the register of radionuclides bought and sent to disposal. This record is subject to internal and external audits.
Store full pails safely in laboratory with label affixed until you are ready to move it to the storage locations at North Terrace or Waite (contact W&S team if you require access to these storage locations). Roseworthy workers contact W&S team for advice regarding safe storage and disposal.
Any waste that is not packaged correctly will have to be returned to the original laboratory for re-packaging.
Empty yellow pails and black lids are kept in the storage locations for your use. Roseworthy – contact W&S team if pails and lids are required.
Importantly, excluding mine waste, tin drums, plastic bags, re-used plastic containers and similar containers may not be used for radioactive waste and any waste of this kind will be returned for repackaging.

SEALED SOURCES

Contact W&S team regarding disposal of sealed sources.

APPARATUS (X-ray, XRD and XRF)

Contact W&S team regarding disposal of x-ray apparatus. Before the machine is disposed of the University is required to seek approval from the EPA outlining how the machine has been made inoperable (this is more than cutting the power cord).

Once approval has been granted by the EPA then the machine can be scrapped.

Appendix F

EMERGENCIES AND ACCIDENTS 

Emergency Contact Information (refer to knowledge article in Services Hub)

Please note that any notifiable radiation incident will need to be reported by the URSO to the EPA and reported by W&S team to SafeWork SA.  

NOTIFIABLE RADIATION INCIDENTS 

W&S team and the University Radiation Safety Officer will follow up with an investigation of the incident and report to the Radiation Branch of the EPA and SafeWork SA. 

The following incidents are the broad categories of notifiable incidents (details are found by contacting Human Resources or referring to schedule 3 of the Regulations) 

Medical exposure of a patients to ionising radiation (not authorised or observable acute effects or wrong patient or the wrong tissue or wrong activity). 
Incidents that cause or may lead to radiation injuries or radiation doses exceeding the annual dose limits to workers/members of the public. 
Loss of theft of a radioactive source or radiation apparatus. 
Incidents relating to the transport of radioactive material. 
Unintentional or unauthorised discharges of radioactive materials into the environment. 
Damage to, or malfunctioning of, radiation apparatus or sealed source. 
Contamination with, or dispersal of radioactive material. 
Out of control radiation sources.

CONTINGENCY PLANS  

The Licenced supervisor must ensure that

contingency plans for ionising radiation activities are developed and tested in accordance with the Emergency Management Procedure. 
any equipment and facilities (e.g. monitoring instrument, detector, or alarm) necessary for the effective operation of the contingency plan are provided and maintained in correct working order. 
The contingency plan must— 
1. take into account every radiation incident and radiation emergency that is reasonably foreseeable; and 
2. contain specific instructions as to how each such accident and emergency is to be dealt with, paying particular regard as to how control may be restored, and the exposure of persons may be kept to a minimum; and 
3. be included in training session for staff and students so they can respond correctly to any foreseeable event.

UNSEALED SOURCE

Note if the incident is serious (hospitalisation or clean up requiring MFS) then dual reporting will be required (Radiation Branch of the EPA and SafeWork SA). The site is not to be cleaned until the EPA and SafeWork SA approvals are granted. 

Treatment for serious or life-threating injury is to take priority over treatment for contamination. 
Manage any injury (where applicable).  
Assess the situation and avoid contaminating other areas.  
Evacuate the area if necessary (also lock and place a sign in the area). 
Advise – the licenced supervisor, University Radiation Safety Officer and W&S team.
Clean up and decontaminate in the following order (treat all cleaning materials as radioactive waste):  
1. people 
2. laboratory (only when clean-up is approved) 
3. equipment (only when clean-up is approved). continue 
Record the incident in Unisafe.
Wellbeing & Safety and the University Radiation Safety Officer will follow up with an investigation of the
incident and report to the where required Radiation Branch of the EPA and SafeWork SA.

Spill Kit for Unsealed Radioactive Materials  

Radioiodine 

In general, the requirements for a spill kit for unsealed radioactive materials are the same as for a chemical spill involving similar chemical forms. The one major difference is where radioactive iodine (I-125 or I-131) is being used. With radioactive iodine it is important that spills do not oxidise the iodide to volatile iodine, and a reducing agent (5% sodium thiosulfate solution) must be included in the spill kit.  If an iodine spill does occur, quickly add sodium thiosulphate to the spill (in an equal volume), place a plastic sheet over the top, exit the room and secure it from other workers.  Immediately call Licenced supervisor, URSO, LRSO or W&S team for assistance.

Spill Kit Contents 

Personal protective equipment specifically safety glasses and gloves.  
Absorbent material of various kinds for liquid spills:  
1. Vermiculite or similar absorbent material. 
2. Absorbent paper and tissues.  
3. Coated bench protector absorbent paper (e.g.’Benchkote’). 
Variety of plastic bags for the waste absorbent and paper – these should be suitable for transfer to the yellow waste pails.  
Plastic sheeting (polythene is suitable) for covering contaminated areas until hard clean-up and decontamination can be done. 
Strong adhesive tape for fastening the sheet down on the bench, floor or other surface.  
Decon-90 or other appropriate detergent-based cleaning agent.  For unusual chemical forms provide a suitable chemical agent for decontamination.  
For radioiodine, a 5% solution of sodium thiosulfate which should be freshly made up regularly.  
A small whiteboard and marker pens so that the area can be sign-posted and a notebook and pen for recording the circumstances of the incident.

DECONTAMINATION 

Treat all materials used in the decontamination process as radioactive waste. 

Personal Decontamination  

When decontaminating people, be as gentle as possible to avoid the contamination passing through the skin. Seek assistance from your licenced supervisor and/or the University Radiation Safety Officer  

Skin  

Monitor the skin and get help if necessary; an assistant to monitor the progress is very helpful.  
Remove contaminated clothing if necessary and secure in a plastic bag.  
Gently rub with cotton wool, warm water and mild soap, then monitor again.

Warning do not continue if there is a risk of contamination entering the blood stream through abrasion to the skin. 

Scrub – soft brush – do not damage the skin, then monitor again.  
Use a decontamination product like ‘Count-off’.  
If still contaminated, report to the University Radiation Safety Officer for assistance.

Face and Eyes  

Wash only with warm water or sterile saline solution.  
Be careful not to swallow or inhale contamination.  
If washing with water does not remove the contamination, call the University Radiation Safety Officer for assistance.

Other Parts of the Body  

Do not spread contamination.  
If the person’s hair is contaminated, keep run off away from nose and mouth when showering. 
Rinse rather than scrub.  
Remove and dispose of all contaminated clothing – do not leave the lab in contaminated clothes but arrange for a new set to be delivered.

 Wounds  

Wash only with warm water.  
If washing with water does not remove the contamination, call the University Radiation Safety Officer for assistance.

Ingestion and Inhalation  

Internal contamination requires professional medical assistance. Ring 0-000 

You must call the University Radiation Safety Officer IMMEDIATELY

Laboratory Decontamination  

For items like trays, benches, equipment and the floor: 
Notify other people in the vicinity of the spill 
Restrict access until cleaned up.  
Wear personal protective equipment (gloves, gown/apron), shoe covers if the contamination is on the floor.  
Mop the spill with tissues and dry the surface.  
Monitor.  
Decontaminate any remaining hot spots by working from outside inwards with Decon 90; scrub if needed.  
Do not contaminate the cleaning solution – use paper towels/tissues only once.  
If still radioactive then contact University Radiation Safety Officer or W&S team for advice.

SEALED SOURCES 

Loss of control in a closed area (laboratory) 

If a sealed source is no longer in its normal shielded container the dose rates may be high. In these circumstances it is most important to leave the area, secure the door and plan a recovery operation.  This may involve locating the source using a radiation monitor.  Check the dose rate outside the locked room and place Do Not Enter signage on the door. 

Estimate the radiation field from the unshielded source –

what dose will be received if it is recovered with 1 metre tongs? 
how long can a person operate in the area?

In the worst case, call for assistance from the URSO or the Radiation Protection Branch of the EPA, after making certain that no-one can enter the area. 

Record an incident in Unisafe. 

Loss of control in a vehicle accident 

If the source is properly secured in the vehicle, it will not be a major hazard in most road accidents as it will remain in the holder in its carrying case. However, at the scene inform Emergency Services.

As soon as possible notify the University Radiation Safety Officer and the Radiation Protection Branch of the EPA as soon as possible and record an incident in Unisafe. 

Loss of control due to a break down in the field 

The mechanical breakdown of a moisture probe in the field can be more difficult to handle than the same problem on campus because the proper resources may not be available.  

When used in the field:  

Emergency signs and warning tape must be carried so that the source area can be marked off if mechanical failure occurs.  
Mark the area around the broken source as a radiation hazard.  
Inform the URSO and the Radiation Protection Branch of the EPA.  
Do not leave the source unattended unless help cannot otherwise be obtained.
Record in incident in Unisafe.

X-RAY UNITS  

If the Emergency Services are called ALWAYS inform them that the emergency is in an area where an X-ray unit is normally in use. Make sure they are informed that EITHER the X-ray unit is turned off and is safe or that it is still operational and special precautions will be needed (this should be an extremely rare event).  

Summary of Emergency Actions  

Turn off the machine.  
Manage any injury – refer the exposed person for medical examination. 
Advise your licenced supervisor and URSO.  
Do not take action to correct the fault that caused the exposure. It will be difficult to estimate the absorbed dose if the fault has been corrected.  
Tag out the unit. 
Isolate the unit from the power and lock the room. 
Record the incident in accordance with the Incident Management Procedure and report (if not already done) to the licenced supervisor, the Dean of School, W&S team and the URSO/LRSO.  
The investigation is to be conducted by the URSO/LRSO, W&S team and the licenced supervisor. An investigation report shall contain: 
- details of the incident/accident including: - the time, date and place.  
- the names of those involved, including anyone who may have been affected by the incident.  
- a description of the incident. 
- the results of any dose assessments that have been made, and 
- actions taken to prevent the event from happening again.

XRD and XRF

If a user of X-ray analysis apparatus detects or suspects an unnecessary or unexpected radiation field, they must immediately: 

de-energise the apparatus or hit the e-stop where one is fitted.
notify the licenced supervisor who is to then notify the URSO of the incident. 
record the incident in Unisafe.

A person must not re-energise or modify an apparatus that has been de-energised due to a detected or suspected unnecessary or unexpected radiation field until such time as the URSO has: 

inspected the apparatus  
conducted an investigation 
approved of any proposed actions.

Appendix G

Download Appendix G: RADIATION INCIDENT INVESTIGATION FORM.

Appendix H

EXEMPTIONS

 The following are exemptions which apply to the University. 

Exemption	Details
Exemption for students from holding a licence	students using or handling radioactive material are exempt from licensing under Regulation 17(2b) and 18(1b)   Regulation 17(2b); 18 (1b) states “that persons enrolled in secondary or tertiary education where the use of radioactive material/operation of ionising radiation apparatus is required as part of the education curriculum and is under the supervision of a person holding a radiation use licence authorising the use are not required themselves to hold a licence.” However, the licenced supervisor must provide supervision (see table in Appendix A).
Exemptions from holding a SA licence mutual recognition	A radiation specialist holding valid authorisation in another jurisdiction can undertake the same activities in South Australia Operating radiation apparatus, handling of radioactive sources, and accreditation of third-party testers of radiation sources are included in the scheme. An individual will be deemed to be authorised to undertake work in South Australia, normally requiring an SA licence, under their home jurisdiction licence (Note this does not apply to Qld).   Before you can commence working in South Australia under Automatic Deemed Registration (ADR), you must notify the EPA by completing the online form. You will receive a factsheet outlining some of your key responsibilities.  ADR applicants must comply with the same conduct and regulatory requirements as SA licensees.  Your ADR is limited to the scope of work allowed under your home jurisdiction licence and you must also comply with the Radiation Protection and Control Act 2021 (RPC Act) and relevant regulations at all times.  If your home jurisdiction licence expires, is suspended or in any other way ceases to be valid, you are no longer deemed registered in South Australia (or any other jurisdiction). ADR does not apply if your principal place of residence or work is South Australia.
Exemption for routine veterinary radiography	A veterinary nurse and veterinary technician are eligible to apply for licence to perform routine veterinary radiography. Once licenced this group will be allowed to conduct routine veterinary radiography without the need for direct, in-room supervision by a veterinary surgeon or radiographer (EPA 30 August 2024). Note routine does not include CT or Fluoroscopy radiography.
Exemption for ores	Ores, which are not subjected to chemical processing and are less than 100 kilos are not required to be stored or handled in a licensed premise (Regs 19(1))
Exemption from personal monitoring for specific unsealed sources and using specific Xray apparatus.	The University has undertaken a review for risk and included in the University Radiation Management Plan (RMP) the intent to continue with the following exemptions (which expired in February 2024). The users of the following will not be required to have a personal monitor.  3H, 14C and 35S unsealed sources   plain (intra-oral) dental X-ray units   XRDs/XRFs.   If you feel that your activity should be exempted from personal monitoring, then please contact W&S team to arrange an assessment by the URSO and addition into the RMP.
Exemptions from holding a licence (refer to Regulation 17, Schedule 4):	persons who use or handle any sealed radioactive source, being a source with an activity of less than the following: (A) for group 1 and 2 radionuclides: 5 megabecquerels; (B) for group 3 and 4 radionuclides (not including tritium in gaseous tritium light sources): 50 megabecquerels; (C) for tritium in gaseous tritium light sources: 20 gigabecquerels.   Exemption for students from holding a licence - refer to exemptionfor students above.  persons who use or handle radioactive material in the course of undertaking a training program (radiation therapy, nuclear medicine or radiation oncology when under supervision of someone who does hold an appropriate licence.  persons who use a sealed radioactive source that is contained in a radiation gauge but do not use or handle the source at any time other than by operating the source control mechanism under the directions of a person who holds an appropriate licence.  persons who handle a sealed radioactive source that is contained in a radiation gauge under the direct supervision of a person who holds a licence under section 28 of the Act, and do not dismantle the source container nor handle the source while it is out of the source container.  persons who use or handle an unsealed radioactive substance in type C premises and are working under the directions of a person who— (i) supervises the persons who work in those premises; and (ii) holds a licence entitling the holder to use or handle the radioactive substances used or handled in those premises in the way they are used or handled in those premises.  persons, being members of the public, who handle any radioactive substance that is packaged for transport in accordance with Part 8 of the Regulations.   persons who, being members of the nursing staff employed in a hospital ward in which patients are treated using a radioactive substance, are supervised by a registered nurse in charge of that ward who holds a licence that entitling the holder to use or handle such a radioactive substance in that ward.  persons who are patients undergoing diagnosis or treatment by use of a radioactive substance.   persons who use, for the purpose of industrial radiography, a sealed radioactive source that is in a fully protected enclosure and who use that source under the supervision of a person who holds a licence authorising the use of the sealed radioactive source.   persons who use or handle any naturally occurring radioactive materials during developmental testing operations or operations for or in relation to mining or mineral processing authorised by radiation management licence.  Following apparatus (schedule 4.1)  Television receivers  Visual display unit  Cold cathode gas discharge tubes  Electron microscopes  Ionising apparatus under development or in developmental testing (if in a licensed premise) Following sealed sources (schedule 4.2)  Americium-21 in domestic smoke alarms  Solid depleted uranium used as ballast   Encapsulated (metal sheath) depleted uranium  Gaseous tritium light source (less than 74 GBq)  Teaching samples of sealed sources with the following activities: Colbalt-60 200 kBq; Strontium-90 80 kBq; Caesium-137 200kBq; Radium-226 20kBq; Americium-241 40kBq.  Geological samples used for teaching or geological displays or at levels not more than 5 micrograys/hour (10cm from surface)  Electron capture detector used in gas chromatography containing a nickey-63 less than 750MBq or tritium less than 20 GBq.  Lighting products that include krypton-85.