N. C. Regulations for Protection Against Radiation

15A NCAC 11 .0507          LEAK TESTING AND REPLACEMENT OF SEALED SOURCES

(a)  The replacement of any sealed source fastened to or contained in a radiographic exposure device and leak testing of any sealed source shall be performed only by persons specifically authorized by the agency to do so pursuant to the rules in this Section.

(b)  The opening, repair, or modification of any sealed source shall be performed only by persons specifically named in a license condition to perform that function.

(c)  Each sealed source shall be tested for leakage at intervals not to exceed six months.  In the absence of a certificate from a transferor that a test has been made within the six months prior to the transfer, the sealed source shall not be put into use until tested.

(d)  The wipe of a sealed source shall be performed using a leak test kit or similar materials and methods.  The wipe sample shall be taken from the nearest accessible point to the sealed source.  The wipe sample shall be analyzed for radioactive contamination.  The analysis shall be capable of detecting 0.005uCi (185 Bq) of radioactive material on the test sample and shall be performed by persons licensed or registered by the agency to perform such a service.

(e)  Any test conducted pursuant to Paragraphs (c) and (d) of this Rule which reveals the presence of 0.005 microcurie (185 Bq) or more of removable radioactive material shall be considered evidence that the sealed source is leaking.  The licensee shall immediately withdraw the equipment involved from use and shall cause it to be decontaminated and repaired or to be disposed of, in accordance with these Rules.  A report describing the equipment involved, the test results, and the corrective action taken shall be submitted in writing to the agency at the address in Rule .0111 of this Chapter within five days after the test.

(f)  The licensee shall maintain records of the leak test results in accordance with Rule .0523 of this Section.

History Note:        Filed as a Temporary Amendment Eff. August 20, 1994, for a period of 180 days or until the permanent rule becomes effective, whichever is sooner;

Authority G.S. 104E‑7;

Eff. February 1, 1980;

Amended Eff. April 1, 1999; May 1, 1995; June 1, 1993.

NC Radiation Protection, 1645 Mail Service Center,
Raleigh, NC  27699-1645  919-571-4141  Fax  919-571-4148