Iowa Admin. Code r. 641-45.1

Current through Regsiter Vol. 46, No. 26, June 12, 2024

Rule 641-45.1 - General requirements for industrial radiography operations.

(1)Purpose and scope.

a. The rules in this chapter establish radiation safety requirements for using sources of radiation for industrial radiography. The requirements of this chapter are in addition to, and not in substitution for, other applicable requirements of 641-Chapters 38, 39, and 40. The rules in this chapter apply to all licensees or registrants who use sources of radiation for industrial radiography.

b. All references to any Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) in this chapter are those in effect as of July 22, 2020.

(2)Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, the definitions of 641-Chapter 38 may also apply. As used in this chapter, the following definitions apply:

"Annual refresher safety training" means a review conducted or provided by the licensee for its employees on radiation safety aspects of industrial radiography. The review may include, as appropriate, the results of internal inspections, new procedures or equipment, new or revised regulations, accidents or errors that have been observed, and should also provide opportunities for employees to ask safety questions.

"Associated equipment" means equipment that is used in conjunction with a radiographic exposure device to make radiographic exposures that drives, guides, or comes in contact with the source, e.g., guide tube, control tube, control (drive) cable, removable source stop, "J" tube and collimator when it is used as an exposure head.

"Cabinet X-ray system" means an X-ray system with the X-ray tube installed in an enclosure independent of existing architectural structures except the floor on which it may be placed. The cabinet X-ray system is intended to:

1. Contain at least that portion of a material being irradiated;

2. Provide radiation attenuation; and

3. Exclude personnel from its interior during generation of radiation. Included are all X-ray systems designed primarily for the inspection of carry-on baggage at airline, railroad, and bus terminals, and in similar facilities. An X-ray tube used within a shielded part of a building, or X-ray equipment which may temporarily or occasionally incorporate portable shielding, is not considered a cabinet X-ray system.

"Certifiable cabinet X-ray system" means an existing uncertified X-ray system that has been modified to meet certification requirements specified in 21 CFR 1020.40.

"Certified cabinet X-ray system" means an X-ray system which has been certified in accordance with 21 CFR 1010.2 as being manufactured and assembled pursuant to the provisions of 21 CFR 1020.40.

"Certifying entity" means an independent certifying organization meeting the requirements of Appendix A in 10 CFR Part 34 or an agreement state meeting the requirements in Appendix A, Parts II and III of 10 CFR Part 34.

"Collimator" means a small radiation shield of lead or other heavy metal that is placed on the end of a guide tube or directly onto a radiographic exposure device to restrict the size of the radiation beam when the sealed source is cranked into position to make a radiographic exposure.

"Control (drive) cable" means the cable that is connected to the source assembly and used to drive the source to and from the exposure location.

"Control drive mechanism" means a device that enables the source assembly to be moved to and from the exposure device.

"Control tube" means a protective sheath for guiding the control cable. The control tube connects the control drive mechanism to the radiographic exposure device.

"Crank-out device" means the cable, protective sheath, and handcrank used to move the sealed source from the shielded to the unshielded position to make an industrial radiographic exposure.

"Enclosed radiography" means industrial radiography conducted in an enclosed cabinet or room and includes cabinet radiography and shielded-room radiography.

"Exposure head" means a device that locates the gamma radiography sealed source in the selected working position. (An exposure head is also known as a source stop.)

"Field station" means a facility where licensed material may be stored or used and from which equipment is dispatched.

"Fluoroscopic imaging assembly" means a subsystem in which X-ray photons produce a fluoroscopic image. It includes the image receptors such as the image intensifier and spot-film device, electrical interlocks, if any, and structural material providing linkage between the image receptor and source assembly.

"GED" means general educational development.

"Guide tube (projection sheath)" means a flexible or rigid tube (i.e., "J" tube) for guiding the source assembly and the attached control cable from the exposure device to the exposure head. The guide tube may also include the connections necessary for attachment to the exposure device and to the exposure head.

"Hands-on experience" means experience in all of those areas considered to be directly involved in the radiography process.

"I.D. card" means the document issued by the agency, another agreement state, a licensing state, or third-party certification to industrial radiographers following completion of requirements stated in 45.1(10)"*."

"Independent certifying organization" means an independent organization that meets all of the criteria of Appendix A in 10 CFR Part 34.

"Lay-barge radiography" means industrial radiography performed on any water vessel used for laying pipe.

"Lixiscope" means a portable light-intensified imaging device using a sealed source.

"Lock-out survey" means a radiation survey performed to verify that a sealed source is in its shielded position. The lock-out survey is performed before moving the radiographic exposure device or source changer to a new location or when securing the radiographic exposure device or source changer.

"Minimal threat" means that during the operations of electronic devices capable of generating or emitting fields of radiation:

1. No deliberate exposure of an individual occurs;

2. The radiation is not emitted in an open beam configuration; and

3. No known physical injury to an individual has occurred."Offshore" means within the territorial waters of the United States.

"Offshoreplatform radiography" means industrial radiography conducted from an offshore platform over a body of water.

"Permanent radiographic installation" means an enclosed shielded room, cell, or vault, not located at a temporary job site, in which radiography is performed.

"Practical examination" means a demonstration through practical application of the safety rules and principles in industrial radiography including use of all appropriate equipment and procedures.

"Radiation safety officer" means an individual named by the licensee or registrant who has a knowledge of, responsibility for, and authority to enforce appropriate radiation protection rules, standards, and practices on behalf of the licensee or registrant and who meets the requirements of 45.1(10) "J."

"Radiographer" means any individual who has successfully completed the training, testing, and documentation requirements of 45.1(10)"*," who performs or personally supervises industrial radiographic operations, and is responsible to the licensee or registrant for ensuring compliance with the requirement of these rules and all license and certificate of registration conditions.

"Radiographer certification" means written approval received from a certifying entity stating that an individual has satisfactorily met certain established radiation safety, testing, and experience criteria.

"Radiographer's assistant" means any individual who has successfully completed the training, testing, and documentation requirements of 45.1(10) "a" and who uses sources of radiation and related handling tools or radiation survey instruments under the direct supervision of a radiographer trainer.

"Radiographer trainer (instructor)" means any individual who instructs and supervises radiographer's assistants during on-the-job training and who meets the requirements of 45.1(10)"c."

"Radiographic exposure device" (also called a camera or a projector) means any instrument containing a sealed source fastened or contained therein, in which the sealed source or shielding thereof may be moved or otherwise changed from a shielded to unshielded position for purposes of making a radiographic exposure, or any other X-ray industrial system whereby a permanent or semipermanent image is recorded on an image receptor by action of ionizing radiation.

"Radiographic operations" means all activities associated with the presence of radioactive sources or radiation in a radiographic exposure device during use of the device or transport (except when being transported by a common or contract transport), to include surveys to confirm the adequacy of boundaries, setting up equipment and any activity inside restricted area boundaries.

"Radiographicpersonnel" means any radiographer or radiographer's assistant.

"Residential location" means any area where structures in which people lodge or live are located, and the grounds on which such structures are located including, but not limited to, houses, apartments, condominiums, and garages.

"Shieldedposition" means the location within the radiographic exposure device or source changer where the sealed source is secured and restricted from movement.

"Shielded-room radiography" means industrial radiography conducted in a room shielded so that radiation levels at every location on the exterior meet the limitations specified in 641-40.26(136C).

"Source assembly" means an assembly that consists of the sealed source and a connector that attaches the source to the control cable. The source assembly may also include a stop ball used to secure the source in the shielded position.

"Source changer" means a device designed and used for replacement of sealed sources in radiographic exposure devices, including those source changers also used for transporting and storage of sealed sources.

"Source container" means a shielded device in which sealed sources are secured, transported, and stored.

"Storage area" means any location, facility, or vehicle which is used to store, to transport, or to secure a radiographic exposure device, a storage container, or a sealed source when it is not in use and which is locked or has a physical barrier to prevent accidental exposure, tampering with, or unauthorized removal of the device, container, or source.

"Storage container" means a container in which sealed sources are secured and stored.

"S-tube" means a tube through which the radioactive source travels when inside a radiographic exposure device.

"Temporary job site" means any location where radiographic operations are conducted and where licensed material may be stored other than the location(s) listed in a specific license or certificate of registration.

"Trainee status card" means the document issued by the agency following completion of the requirements of 45.1(10) "o"(l) and (2).

"Transport container" means a package that is designed to provide radiation safety and security when sealed sources are transported and which meets all applicable requirements of the U.S. Department of Transportation.

"Underwater radiography" means industrial radiography performed when the radiographic exposure device and related equipment are beneath the surface of the water.

(3)Exemptions.

a. Uses of certified and certifiable cabinet X-ray systems designed to exclude individuals are exempt from the requirements of this chapter, except for the requirements of 45.2(6)"b" and "c."

b. Industrial uses of lixiscopes are exempt from the requirements in this chapter.

c. Radiation machines determined by the agency to constitute a minimal threat to human health and safety in accordance with 641-subrule 38.3(1) are exempt from the rules in this chapter, except for the requirements of this subrule.

(4)Receipt, transfer, and disposal of sources of radiation. Each licensee and registrant shall maintain records showing the receipt, transfer, and disposal of sealed sources and devices using DU for shielding and machine-produced sources of radiation. These records shall include the date, the name of the individual making the record, the radionuclide, number of curies or mass (for DU), and the make, model, and serial number of each source of radiation and device, as appropriate. Records shall be maintained for three years after they are made.

(5)Radiation survey instruments.

a. The licensee or registrant shall maintain sufficient calibrated and operable radiation survey instruments at each location where sources of radiation are present to make physical radiation surveys as required by this chapter and 641-subrule 40.36(1). Instrumentation required by this subrule shall have a range such that 2 millirems (0.02 millisievert) per hour through 1 rem (0.01 sievert) per hour can be measured.

b. Notwithstanding the requirements of 641-subrule 40.36(3) each radiation survey instrument shall be calibrated:

(1) At energies appropriate for use and at intervals not to exceed six months and after each instrument servicing;

(2) Such that accuracy within plus or minus 20 percent of the calibration source can be demonstrated at each point checked;

(3) At 2 points located approximately 1/3 and 2/3 of full-scale on each scale for linear scale instruments; at midrange of each decade, and at 2 points of at least 1 decade for logarithmic scale instruments; and at 3 points between 2 and 1000 mrem per hour for digital instruments; and

(4) By a person licensed or registered by the agency, another agreement state, or the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission to perform such service.

c. Records of these calibrations shall be maintained for three years after the calibration date for inspection by the agency.

d. Each radiation survey instrument shall be checked with a radiation source at the beginning of each day of use and at the beginning of each work shift to ensure it is operating properly.

(6)Quarterly inventory. Each licensee shall conduct a physical inventory at intervals not to exceed three months to account for all sealed sources and radiography exposure devices received and possessed. Sources of radiation include radiographic exposure devices containing depleted uranium. The records of the inventories shall be maintained for three years from the date of the inventory for inspection by the agency and shall include: the manufacturer, model number, serial number, radionuclide, number of curies, and location of each source of radiation; number of kilograms of depleted uranium shielding; date of the inventory; and name of the individual making the inventory.

(7)Utilization logs.

a. Each licensee shall maintain utilization logs of the use of each sealed source. The logs shall include:

(1) A unique description, which includes the make, model, and serial number of each radiographic exposure device containing a sealed source or transport or storage container in which the sealed source is located;

(2) The identity and signature of the radiographer to whom the sealed source is assigned;

(3) The plant or site where each sealed source is used and the date of use; and

(4) The date(s) each sealed source is removed from storage and returned to storage.

b. Each registrant shall maintain current logs of the use of each source of radiation. The logs shall include:

(1) A unique identification, which includes the make, model and serial number of each source of radiation;

(2) The identity of the radiographer using the source of radiation;

(3) The date(s) each source of radiation is energized or used and the number of exposures made.

c. Utilization logs may be kept on clear, legible records containing all the information required by 45.1 (7)"a" or "b." Copies of utilization logs shall be maintained for agency inspection for three years from the date of the recorded event. The records shall be kept at the location specified by the license or certificate of registration.

(8)Inspection and maintenance.

a. Each licensee or registrant shall perform visual and operability checks on survey meters, radiographic exposure devices, transport and storage containers, associated equipment and source changers before use on each day the equipment is to be used to ensure that the equipment is in good working condition, that the sources are adequately shielded, and that required labeling is present. Survey instrument operability must be performed using check sources or other appropriate means.

b. Each licensee or registrant shall have written procedures and conduct a program, at intervals not to exceed three months, or prior to the first use thereafter, of inspection and maintenance of radiation machines, radiographic exposure devices, transport and storage containers, source changers, survey instruments, and associated equipment to ensure proper functioning of components important to safety. All appropriate parts shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. Replacement components shall meet design specifications. This program shall cover, as a minimum, the items in Appendix B of this chapter.

c. Each licensee shall have a program and written procedures for the inspection and maintenance necessary to maintain the Type B packaging used to transport radioactive materials. The program must include procedures to ensure that Type B packages are shipped and maintained in accordance with the certificate of compliance or other approval.

d. If equipment problems are found, the equipment must be removed from service until repaired.

e. The record of equipment problems and of any maintenance performed under 45.1(8) must be retained for three years after the record is made. The record must include the date of check or inspection, name of inspector, equipment involved, any problems found, and what repair or maintenance, if any, was performed.

(9)Permanent radiographic installations. Permanent radiographic installations having high radiation area entrance controls of the type described in 641-paragraphs 40.42(1)"b" and "c" shall also meet the following requirements:

a. Each entrance that is used for personnel access to the high radiation area shall have both visible and audible warning signals to warn of the presence of radiation. The visible signal shall be activated by radiation. The audible signal shall be activated when an attempt is made to enter the installation while the source is exposed.

b. The control device or alarm system shall be tested for proper operation at the beginning of each day of equipment use. If a control device or alarm system is operating improperly, it shall be immediately labeled as defective and repaired before industrial radiographic operations are resumed. Records of these tests shall be maintained for inspection by the agency for three years from the date of the event.

(10)Training and testing for radiographic personnel.

a. Radiographer's assistant requirements. No licensee or registrant shall permit any individual to act as a radiographer's assistant, as defined in this chapter, until:

(1) It has been documented on the appropriate agency form or equivalent that such individual has received copies of and has demonstrated an understanding of:

1. The subjects outlined in Appendix A, presented in a 40-hour course approved by the agency, another agreement state, or the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission;

2. The rules contained in this chapter and the applicable sections of 641-Chapter 38, the applicable U.S. Department of Transportation and NRC transportation regulations in 641-Chapter 39, and 641-Chapter 40;

3. The appropriate conditions of license(s) or certificate(s) of registration;

4. The licensee's or registrant's operating and emergency procedures;

5. And developed competence to use, under the personal supervision of the radiographer, the licensee's or registrant's radiographic exposure devices, sealed sources, associated equipment, and radiation survey instruments that the assistant will use;

6. And has demonstrated competence in the use of radiographic exposure devices, sources, survey instruments and associated equipment described in 45.1(10)"a"(1) by successful completion of a practical examination covering this material.

(2) The individual possesses a current agency-issued trainee status card issued after completion of 45.1 (10)"a"(1). Trainee status will be granted only once for each individual and is valid for no longer than two years.

b. Radiographer requirements. No licensee or registrant shall permit any individual to act as a radiographer:

(1) Until it has been documented to the agency that such individual:

1. Has completed the requirements of 45.1 (10)"a"( 1);

2. Has completed on-the-job training as a radiographic trainee supervised by one or more radiographic trainers. The on-the-job training shall be documented on the appropriate agency form or equivalent and shall include a minimum of two months (320 hours) of active participation in the performance of industrial radiography utilizing radioactive material or one month (160 hours) of active participation in the performance of industrial radiography utilizing radiation machines, or both. Individuals performing industrial radiography utilizing radioactive materials and radiation machines must complete both segments of the on-the-job training (three months or 480 hours). Active participation does not include safety meetings or classroom training;

3. Has demonstrated competence in the use of sources of radiation, radiographic exposure devices, related handling tools, and radiation survey instruments which may be employed in industrial radiographic assignments by successful completion of a practical examination covering this material;

(2) Unless the individual has successfully completed within the last five years the appropriate agency-administered examination prescribed in 45.1(10)"f"(2) or equivalent examination; and

(3) Unless the individual possesses a current I.D. card.

c. Radiographer trainer. No individual shall act as a radiographer trainer unless such individual:

(1) Has met the requirements of 45.1(10)"a"(1) and"b";

(2) Has one year of documented experience as an industrial radiographer and possesses a current ID card issued at least one year prior to the application for a trainer card; and

(3) Is named on the specific license or certificate of registration issued by the agency and under which an individual is acting as a radiographer trainer, or

(4) Possesses a valid radiographer trainer card issued by the agency.

d. Radiation safety officer. The radiation safety officer shall ensure that radiation safety activities are being performed in accordance with approved procedures and regulatory requirements in the daily operation of the licensee's program.

(1) A radiation safety officer (RSO) shall be designated for every industrial radiography license and certificate of registration issued by the agency.

(2) The RSO's qualifications shall include:

1. Possession of a high school diploma or a certificate of high school equivalency based on the GED test;

2. Completion of the training and testing requirements of 45.1(10)"a"(1) and 45.1(10)"b"(1)"3," (2), and (3);

3. 2000 hours of hands-on experience as a qualified radiographer in industrial radiographic operations; and

4. Formal training in the establishment and maintenance of a radiation protection program.

The agency will consider alternatives when the RSO has either appropriate training or experience, or both, in the field of ionizing radiation and, in addition, has adequate formal training with respect to the establishment and maintenance of a radiation safety protection program.

(3) The specific duties of the RSO include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. To establish and oversee operating, emergency, and ALARA procedures and to review them regularly to ensure that the procedures are current and conform with these rules;

2. To oversee and approve all phases of the training program for radiographic personnel so that appropriate and effective radiation protection practices are taught;

3. To ensure that required radiation surveys and leak tests are performed and documented in accordance with these rules, including any corrective measures when levels of radiation exceed established limits;

4. To ensure that personnel monitoring devices are calibrated and used properly by occupationally exposed personnel, that records are kept of the monitoring results, and that timely notifications are made as required by 641-Chapter 40;

5. To ensure that any required interlock switches and warning signals are functioning and that radiation signs, ropes, and barriers are properly posted and positioned;

6. To investigate and report to the agency each known or suspected case of radiation exposure to an individual or radiation level detected in excess of limits established by these rules and each theft or loss of source(s) of radiation, to determine the cause, and to take steps to prevent its recurrence;

7. To have a thorough knowledge of management policies and administrative procedures of the licensee or registrant;

8. To assume control and have the authority to institute corrective actions including shutdown of operations when necessary in emergency situations or unsafe conditions;

9. To maintain records as required by these rules (see Appendix C);

10. To ensure the proper storing, labeling, transport, and use of exposure devices and sources of radiation;

11. To ensure that quarterly inventory and inspection and maintenance programs are performed in accordance with 45.1(6), 45.1(8), 45.2(3), and 45.3(6)"b";

12. To ensure that personnel are complying with these rules, the conditions of the license or the registration, and the operating and emergency procedures of the licensee or registrant; and

13. To ensure that annual refresher safety training has been provided for each radiographer and radiographer's assistant at intervals not to exceed 12 months.

e. Training and testing records. Each licensee and registrant shall maintain, for agency inspection, training and testing records which demonstrate that the applicable requirements of 45.1(10) "a" and"b" are met. Records of training for all industrial radiographic personnel must include personnel certification documents and verification of certification status, copies of written tests, dates of oral and practical examinations, and names of individuals conducting and receiving the oral and practical examinations. Records of annual refresher training and semiannual inspection of job performance for all industrial radiographic personnel must list the topics discussed during the refresher safety training, the dates the annual refresher safety training was conducted, and names of the instructors and attendees. For inspections of job performance, the records must also include a list showing the items checked and any noncompliances observed by the RSO. Records shall be maintained until disposal is authorized by the agency. The agency shall not release records for disposal unless the records have been maintained at least three years.

f. Applications and examinations.

(1) Application.

1. An application for taking the examination shall be on forms prescribed and furnished by the agency along with the fee required in 641-subrule 38.8(3). The application shall be submitted only after the training requirements of 45.1(10)"a" and "b" have been completed.

2. An individual whose ID. card has been suspended or revoked shall obtain prior approval from the agency to apply to take the examination.

(2) Examination. The examination shall be given for the purpose of determining the qualifications of applicants.

1. A written examination shall be held at such times and places as the agency shall determine. The scope of the examination and the methods of procedure, including determination of the passing score, shall be prescribed by the agency. The examination will emphasize the applicant's ability to safely use sources of radiation and related equipment and the applicant's knowledge of these rules.

2. A candidate failing an examination may apply for reexamination in accordance with 45.1(10)"f"(1) and will be reexamined. A candidate shall not retake the same version of the agency-administered examination.

3. The examination will be held at locations designated by the agency. The examination shall normally be offered quarterly. Dates, times, and locations of the examinations will be provided by the agency.

4. The examination will be in the English language.

5. To take the examination, an individual shall have a picture identification card (such as an Iowa driver's license) at the time of the examination.

6. Calculators will be permitted during the examination; however, calculators or computers with preprogrammed data or formulas, including exposure calculations, will not be permitted.

7. The examination will be a "closed book" examination.

8. Examination material shall be returned to the agency at the end of the examination. No photographic or other copying of examination questions or materials shall be permitted. Disclosure by any individual of the contents of any examination prior to the administration is prohibited.

9. Any individual observed by an agency proctor to be compromising the integrity of the examination shall be required to surrender the examination, the answer sheet, and any work paper. Such individual will not be allowed to complete the examination, will forfeit the examination fee, and will leave the examination site to avoid disturbing other examinees. Such individual may resubmit an application and an additional examination fee to take the examination not earlier than three months later.

10. The names and scores of individuals taking the examination shall be a public record.

g. Identification procedures.

(1) ID. card.

1. An I.D. card shall be issued to each person who successfully completes the requirements of 45.1(10)"b" and the examination prescribed in 45.1(10)"f"(2) or an equivalent examination.

2. Each person's I.D. card shall contain the person's photograph.

3. The I.D. card remains the property of the state of Iowa and may be revoked or suspended under the provisions of 45.1(10)"h."

4. Any individual who wishes to replace the I.D. card shall submit to the agency a written request for a replacement I.D. card, stating the reason a replacement I.D. card is needed and the fee required in 641-subrule 3 8.8(3). The individual shall maintain in possession a copy of the request while performing industrial radiographic operations until a replacement I.D. card is received from the agency.

(2) Expiration of I.D. card. Each I.D. card expires at the end of the day, in the month and year stated on the I.D. card.

(3) Renewal of I.D. card.

1. Applications for examination to renew an I.D. card shall be filed in accordance with 45.1(10)T(1).

2. The examination for renewal of an I.D. card shall be administered in accordance with 45.1(10) y (2).

3. A renewed I.D. card shall be issued in accordance with 45.1(10)"g"(1).

h. Revocation or suspension of an I.D. card.

(1) Any radiographer who violates these rules may be required to show cause at a formal hearing why the I.D. card should not be revoked or suspended.

(2) When an agency order has been issued for an industrial radiographer to cease and desist from the use of radioactive material or revoking or suspending the I.D. card, the industrial radiographer shall surrender the I.D. card to the agency until such time as the order is changed or the suspension expires.

(3) An agency's inspector may, in certain instances, confiscate any radiographer's I.D. card on the spot while conducting an inspection or investigation. If the inspector determines that the activities being conducted by the radiographer are significant enough to be classified as severity I, II, or III, as specified in 641-38.5 (136C), and after obtaining the approval of agency management, the inspector may take any radiographer's I.D. card. The agency will then issue a cease and desist order to the radiographer's employer, forward the I.D. card(s) to the issuing entity, and notify the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and other agreement states.

i. Exemptions. Any person using a source of radiation to determine the presence of explosives in a package or the authenticity of a piece of art is exempt from the provisions of 45.1 (10)"a" to "h."

j. Reciprocity.

(1) Reciprocal recognition by the agency of an individual radiographer certification will be granted provided that:

1. The individual holds a valid certification in the appropriate category and class issued by a certifying entity as defined in 45.1(2).

2. The requirements and procedures of the certifying entity issuing the certification require the same or comparable certification standards as those required by 45.1(10)"a" through "e"; and

3. The individual submits a legible copy of the certification to the agency prior to entry into Iowa.

(2) Enforcement actions with the agency, another agreement state, or the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission or any sanctions by an independent certifying entity may be considered when reviewing a request for reciprocal recognition from a licensee, registrant, or certified radiographer.

(3) Certified radiographers who are granted reciprocity by the agency shall maintain the certification upon which the reciprocal recognition was granted, or prior to the expiration of such certification, shall meet the requirements of 45.1(10)"b."

(11)Internal audits. Except as provided in 45.1(11)"c," the RSO or designee shall conduct an inspection program of the job performance of each radiographer and radiographer's assistant to ensure that these rules, license requirements, and the licensee's or registrant's operating and emergency procedures are followed. The inspection program must:

a. Include observation of the performance of each radiographer and radiographer's assistant during an actual industrial radiographic operation, at intervals not to exceed six months; and

b. Provide that, if a radiographer or radiographer's assistant has not participated in an industrial radiographic operation for more than six months since the last audit, the radiographer or radiographer's assistant must demonstrate understanding of the subjects contained in Appendix A of this chapter by a practical examination before the individual can next participate in a radiographic operation.

c. The agency may consider alternatives in those situations where the individual serves as both radiographer and RSO. In those operations where a single individual serves as both radiographer and RSO, and performs all radiography operations, an inspection program is not required.

d. Records of audits shall be maintained by the licensee or registrant for agency inspection for three years from the date of the audit.

(12)Personnel monitoring control.

a. The personnel monitoring program shall meet the applicable requirements of 641 -Chapter 40.

b. When performing industrial radiographic operations:

(1) No licensee or registrant shall permit an individual to act as a radiographer, radiographer's assistant, or radiographer trainer unless at all times during radiographic operations each individual wears, on the trunk of the body, a combination of direct-reading pocket dosimeter, an operating alarm ratemeter, and a film badge, an optically stimulated luminescent device (OSL device) or a thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) that is processed and evaluated by an accredited National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP). For permanent radiographic installations where other appropriate alarming or warning devices are in routine use, the wearing of an alarm ratemeter is not required.

(2) Pocket dosimeters or electronic personal dosimeters shall meet the criteria in ANSI N322-1977 and shall have a range of zero to at least 200 millirems. Electronic personal dosimeters may only be used in place of ion-chamber pocket dosimeters.

(3) Pocket dosimeters or electronic personal dosimeters shall be recharged at the start of each work shift.

(4) Pocket dosimeters or electronic personal dosimeters shall be read and exposures recorded at the beginning and at the end of each work shift, and before each recharging.

(5) If an individual's pocket dosimeter is discharged beyond its range (i.e., goes "off scale"), or if the electronic personal dosimeter reads greater than 200 millirem (2 millisievert), and the possibility of radiation exposure cannot be ruled out as the cause, industrial radiographic operations by that individual shall cease and the individual's film badge, OSL device, or TLD shall be within 24 hours sent for processing. The individual shall not return to work with sources of radiation until a determination of the radiation exposure has been made. This determination must be made by the RSO or the RSO's designee. The results of this determination must be included in the exposure records maintained in accordance with 641-Chapter 40.

(6) Each individual monitoring device shall be assigned to and worn by only one individual.

(7) Film badges, OSL devices and TLDs must be replaced at least monthly.

(8) If an individual monitoring device is lost or damaged, the worker shall cease work immediately until a replacement individual monitoring device is provided and the exposure is calculated for the time period from issuance to loss or damage of the individual monitoring device. The results of the calculated exposure and the time period for which the individual monitoring device was lost or damaged must be included in the records maintained in 45.1(12)"c."

c. Records of pocket dosimeter readings of personnel exposures and yearly operability checks required in 45.1(12)"J" shall be maintained for three years by the licensee or registrant for agency inspection. If the dosimeter readings were used to determine external radiation dose (i.e., no TLD or film badge exposure records exist), the records shall be maintained for three years after they are recorded. Records of estimates of exposures as a result of off-scale personal direct reading dosimeters, or lost or damaged film badges, OSLs, or TLDs, shall be maintained until the agency terminates the license.

d. Pocket dosimeters shall be checked for correct response to radiation at periods not to exceed one year. Acceptable dosimeters shall read within plus or minus 20 percent of the true radiation exposure. Records of this check shall be maintained for inspection by the agency for three years from the date of the event.

e. Reports received from the film badge, OSL device or TLD processor shall be kept for inspection by the agency until the agency terminates the license.

f. Each alarm ratemeter must:

(1) Be checked to ensure that the alarm functions properly (sounds) prior to use at the start of each shift. Records of alarm function checks shall be maintained for two years by the licensee or registrant for agency inspection;

(2) Be set to give an alarm signal at a preset dose rate of 500 mR/hr;

(3) Require special means to change the preset alarm function; and

(4) Be calibrated at periods not to exceed one year for correct response to radiation: Acceptable ratemeters must alarm within plus or minus 20 percent of the true radiation dose rate. Records of the alarming ratemeter calibrations shall be maintained for three years by the licensee or registrant for agency inspection.

(13)Supervision of radiographer's assistant. Whenever a radiographer's assistant uses radiographic exposure devices, sealed sources or associated equipment or conducts radiation surveys required by 45.2(5) or 45.3(7) to determine that the sealed source has returned to the shielded position after an exposure, the radiographer's assistant shall be under the direct supervision of a radiographer instructor. The direct supervision must include:

a. The radiographer's physical presence at the site where the source(s) of radiation is being used;

b. The availability of the radiographer to give immediate assistance if required; and

c. The radiographer's direct observation of the radiographer's assistant's performance of the operations referred to in this subrule.

(14)Access control.

a. During each industrial radiographic operation, a radiographer or radiographer's assistant shall maintain continuous, direct visual surveillance of the operation to protect against unauthorized entry into a restricted area, radiation area or high radiation area, except at permanent radiographic installations where all entryways are locked to protect against unauthorized or accidental entry and the requirements of 45.1(9) are met.

b. Radiographic exposure devices shall not be left unattended except when in storage or physically secured against unauthorized removal.

(15)Posting.

a. Notwithstanding any provisions in 641-subrule 40.62(1) areas in which radiography is being performed shall be conspicuously posted as required by 641-subrules 40.61(1) and 40.61(2).

b. Whenever practicable, ropes or barriers shall be used in addition to appropriate signs to designate areas in accordance with 641-subrule 40.26(1) and to help prevent unauthorized entry.

c. During pipeline industrial radiography operations, sufficient radiation signs and other barriers shall be posted to prevent unmonitored individuals from entering the radiation area.

d. Notwithstanding the requirements of 45.1(15)"a," a restricted area may be established in accordance with 641-subrule 40.26(1) and may be posted in accordance with 641-subrules 40.61(1) and 40.61(2), i.e., both signs may be posted at the same location at the boundary of the restricted area.

(16)Temporary job site requirements.

a. Documents and records. Each licensee or registrant conducting industrial radiography at a temporary job site shall have the following records available at that site for inspection by the agency:

(1) Appropriate license or certificate of registration or equivalent document;

(2) The appropriate operating and emergency procedures;

(3) The applicable agency rules;

(4) Survey records required pursuant to 45.2(5)"d" and 45.3(7)"j" for the period of operation at the site;

(5) Daily pocket dosimeter records for the period of operation at the site;

(6) The daily alarming ratemeter records for the period of operation at the site; and

(7) The latest radiation survey instrument calibration and leak test records for specific devices and sealed sources in use at the site. Acceptable records include tags or labels which are affixed to the device or survey meter and decay charts for sources which have been manufactured within the last six months.

b. Reserved.

(17)Specific requirements for radiographic personnel performing industrial radiography.

a. At a job site, the following shall be supplied by the licensee or registrant:

(1) At least one operable, calibrated radiation survey instrument;

(2) A current whole body personnel monitor (TLD, OSL device or film badge) for each individual;

(3) An operable, calibrated pocket dosimeter with a range of 0 to 200 milliroentgens (5.16 x 10^-5C/kg) for each worker; and

(4) An operable, calibrated alarm ratemeter for each worker; and

(5) The appropriate barrier ropes and signs.

b. Each radiographer at a job site shall possess a valid ID. card.

c. Each radiographer's assistant at a job site shall possess a valid trainee status card issued by the agency.

d. Industrial radiographic operations shall not be performed if any of the items in 45.1(17)"a," "b," and "c" are not available at the job site or are inoperable.

e. No individual other than a radiographer or a radiographer's assistant who is under the direct supervision of a radiographer trainer shall manipulate controls or operate equipment used in industrial radiographic operations.

f. During an inspection by the agency, the agency inspector may terminate an operation if any of the items in 45.1(17) "a" are not available and operable or if the required number of radiographic personnel are not present. Operations shall not be resumed until such conditions are met.

(18)Notifications.

a. The agency shall be notified of thefts or losses of sources of radiation, overexposures, and excessive levels in accordance with 641-40.95 (136C) and 641-40.97 (136C).

b. Each licensee or registrant shall submit a written report within 30 days to the agency whenever one of the following events occurs:

(1) The source assembly cannot be returned to the fully shielded position and properly secured;

(2) The source assembly becomes disconnected from the drive cable;

(3) The failure of any component (critical to safe operation of the radiographic exposure device) to properly perform its intended function; or

(4) An indicator on a radiation-producing machine fails to show that radiation is being produced or an exposure switch fails to terminate production of radiation when turned to the off position.

c. The licensee or registrant shall include the following information in each report submitted in accordance with 45.1(18)"b":

(1) A description of the equipment problem;

(2) Cause of each incident, if known;

(3) Manufacturer and model number of equipment involved in the incident;

(4) Location, time, and date of the incident;

(5) Actions taken to establish normal operations;

(6) Corrective actions taken or planned to prevent recurrence; and

(7) Names of personnel involved in the incident.

d. Any licensee conducting radiographic operations or storing radioactive material at any location not listed on the license for a period in excess of 180 days in a calendar year shall notify the agency prior to exceeding the 180 days.

(19)Copies of operating and emergency procedures. Each licensee or registrant shall maintain a copy of current operating and emergency procedures until the agency terminates the license. Superseded material must be retained for three years after the change is made.

Iowa Admin. Code r. 641-45.1

ARC 8982B, IAB 8/11/10, effective 9/15/10

Amended by IAB October 1, 2014/Volume XXXVII, Number 7, effective 11/5/2014

Amended by IAB April 11, 2018/Volume XL, Number 21, effective 5/16/2018

Amended by IAB June 17, 2020/Volume XLII, Number 26, effective 7/22/2020