Program Description
This program is responsible for a County-wide program to protect the public from unnecessary radiation exposure. Within the County, Radiation Management works under contract with the California Department of Public Health to provide the delivery of these services:
- Inspect X-ray and radioactive material users in medical, dental, research and industrial applications to assure compliance with Federal and State standards;
- Ensure that all users of X-ray equipment and radioactive materials are licensed as required;
- Investigate complaints and incidents of radiation overexposure and respond to radiological emergency incidents;
- Conduct inspections at locations that use radioisotopes to ensure that these radioisotopes are used, stored and disposed of in accordance with State and federal regulations;
- Inspect mammography facilities for the U.S.Food and Drug Administration, and to determine compliance with State regulations;
- Revokes the license to use radioisotopes or registration of x-ray machines at any establishment after verifying unsafe conditions or procedures;
- Continues the growth and development of its staff through certified training courses, conferences and exposure to state-of-the-art equipment and technology;
- Provides a continuing public information source for licencees, registrants, and the public, on the regulations and radiation safety practices and procedures.
Under County authority, program staff provide these services:
- Review plans for facilities that install diagnostic, therapeutic, or industrial x-ray machines, or PET/CT Scanners, to ensure that necessary shielding is provided;
- Prepare the County for a large-scale radiologic terrorist event, including training of responders and acquisition of necessary equipment and supplies.
