General Radiation Information
Any radiation-producing equipment or radioactive materials intended for use at TCU must be approved by the Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) office prior to use. This requirement applies to all equipment and materials, including those owned and operated by non-TCU personnel temporarily present on campus for specific events or tasks.
The EHS office provides guidance on how to obtain authorization to use radioactive materials or radiation-producing devices.
Radiation Survey Instruments
Using the correct survey instrument is essential for effective radiation monitoring
during experiments and routine checks. If you are unsure which instrument is appropriate
for your work, contact EHS for guidance.
Tips for Proper Use and Maintenance
- Annual Calibration
Survey instruments must be calibrated annually. Before using your instrument, verify that the calibration is current (within the past year). If calibration is overdue, contact EHS at safety@tcu.edu for assistance. - Troubleshooting Issues
If your instrument is not functioning properly, start by checking the batteries - this is the most common issue. If problems persist, contact EHS for further evaluation or repair. - Proper Storage
Store your instrument in a clean, dry, and temperature-controlled location. Avoid storing instruments in cold rooms, as condensation can form and damage internal components. - Usage Best PracticesTurn your instrument on before handling any radioisotopes.
Turn it off when not in use to conserve battery life.
Ludlum survey instruments are the most commonly used on campus.
Maintenance & Repairs
All preventative maintenance and repairs are the responsibility of the authorized
users (AU) and the department where these specialized instruments are housed. Questions
or concerns should be directed to EHS at safety@tcu.edu or 817-257-5395.
Types of Personnel Exposure
Internal Exposure
Ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact (including absorption or injection) are potential
routes for internal exposure to radioactive material. If there is reason to believe
that a significant internal exposure has occurred, immediately contact the Radiation
Safety Officer (RSO) to determine whether a bioassay is necessary.
External Exposure
Radioactive materials or x-ray-producing machines can be sources of external exposure.
If there is reason to believe that a significant external exposure has occurred, immediately
contact the RSO to determine the appropriate next steps.
Emergency Contact Information
TCU Radiation Safety Officer: Richard Adickes; Email: r.adickes@tcu.edu
During normal business hours (Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
Call EHS at 817-257-5395
After normal business hours or during holidays
Call TCU Police at 817-257-7777
Resources & Forms
TCU X-Ray Radiation Safety Manual (work in progress)
Texas Department of State Health Services - Notice to Employees
Texas Department of State Health Services - Radiation Control
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Radiation Protection
Training
Online training courses administered through the HSI/SafetySkills learning management
system are overseen by the Environmental Health and Safety Department. For additional
information contact safety@tcu.edu or call 817-257-5395.
Radiation Safety Awareness - RAD-1.2
This online course provides individuals with information on how to recognize the types
and effects of radiation, identify radiation exposure hazards and workplace controls,
and how to identify controls designed to prevent radiation exposure. This course addresses
relevant OSHA standards (29 CFR 1910.1096 and 10 CFR Part 835).