Radiation Safety

The use of radioactive materials is regulated by the Washington State Department of Health and strictly controlled by EH&S.

EH&S issues dosimeters to people who are required to be monitored for occupational exposure to radiation.

The Laser Safety Program facilitates the safe and knowledgeable use of lasers in research, teaching and the environment.

Physicians who administer radioactive material to humans and physicists who conduct treatment planning for cancer patients must obtain approval.

Medical safety screening assures the safety of employees who may be exposed to the magnetic resonance magnet.

The Non-Ionizing Radiation Safety Program is designed to help protect employees, students and the general public from the harmful effects of non-ionizing radiation.

Federal and state regulations require the UW to monitor the radiation dose to employees who may be exposed to radiation as part of their job duties.

EH&S operates a radiation detection instrument repair and calibration facility that can accommodate a wide variety of equipment.

All radiation producing devices are regulated for safety with specific requirements for device operation, facility design, worker training and protection.

The Radiation Safety Committee is responsible for the safe use of radiation at all UW facilities.

Researchers working with radioactive material must be properly trained and must conduct the work under a Radiation Use Authorization.

The Radioactive Waste Management Program provides training, consultation and resources to ensure safe and compliant storage, packaging, labeling, collection, sampling and disposal of radioactive waste.

State and federal regulations require surveys of public areas and areas where radioactive materials are used to detect contamination and measure radiation levels.

EH&S provides consultation to investigators and coordinators involved in human subjects research to ensure research subjects are informed of the radiation risks involved in clinical trial participation.