Overview of a Benefit/Risk Ratio Optimized for a Radiation Emitting Device used in Non-Destructive Testing

摘要

This paper aims to provide an overview of an optimized benefit/risk ratio fora radiation emitting device. The device, which is portable, hand-held, and openbeamx-ray tube based, is utilized by a wide variety of industries for purposesof determining elemental or chemical analyses of materials in-situ basedon fluorescent x-rays. These analyses do not cause damage or permanentalteration of the test materials and are considered a non-destructive test(NDT). Briefly, the key characteristics, principles of use and radiation hazardsassociated with the x-ray device are presented and discussed. In view of thepotential radiation risks, a long term strategy that incorporates risk factorsand guiding principles intended to mitigate the radiation risks to the end userwas considered and applied. Consequently, an operator certification programwas developed on the basis of an International Standards Organization (ISO)standard (ISO 20807:2004) and in collaboration with various stakeholders,and was implemented by a federal national NDT certification body several yearsago. It comprises a written radiation safety examination and hands-on trainingwith the x-ray device. The operator certification program was recently revisedand the changes appear beneficial. There is a fivefold increase in operatorcertification (Levels 1 and 2) to date compared with earlier years. Results arefavourable and promising. An operational guidance document is available tohelp mitigate radiation risks. Operator certification in conjunction with the useof the operational guidance document is prudent, and is recommended forend users of the x-ray device. Manufacturers and owners of the x-ray deviceswill also benefit from the operational guidance document.