N.M. Code R. § 20.3.15.1511 – Control of Source Movement

A. The mechanism that moves the sources of a panoramic irradiator must require a key to actuate. Actuation of the mechanism must cause an audible signal to indicate that the sources are leaving the shielded position. Only one key may be in use at any time, and only operators or facility management may possess it. The key must be attached to a portable radiation survey meter by a chain or cable. The lock for source control must be designed so that the key may not be removed if the sources are in an unshielded position. The door to the radiation room must require the same key.
B. The console of a panoramic irradiator must have a source position indicator that indicates when the sources are in the fully shielded position, when they are in transit and when the sources are exposed.
C. The control console of a panoramic irradiator must have a control that promptly returns the sources to the shielded position.
D. Each control for a panoramic irradiator must be clearly marked as to its function.
[5/3/1995; 20.3.15.1511 NMAC - Rn, 20 NMAC 3.1.15.1511, 4/15/2004]
20.3.1512 IRRADIATOR POOLS:
A. For licenses initially issued after July 1, 1993, irradiator pools must either:
1. (1) have a water-tight stainless steel liner or a liner metallurgically compatible with other components in the pool; or
2. (2) be constructed so that there is a low likelihood of substantial leakage and have a surface designed to facilitate decontamination; and
3. (3) in either case, the licensee shall have a method to safely store the sources during repairs of the pool.
B. For licenses initially issued after July 1, 1993, irradiator pools must have no outlets more than 0.5 meter below the normal low water level that could allow water to drain out of the pool. Pipes that have intakes more than 0.5 meter below the normal low water level and that could act as siphons must have siphon breakers to prevent the siphoning of pool water.
C. A means must be provided to replenish water losses from the pool.
D. A visible indicator must be provided in a clearly visible location to indicate if the pool water level is below the normal low water level or above the normal high water level.
E. Irradiator pools must be equipped with a purification system designed to be capable of maintaining the water during normal operation at a conductivity of 20 microsiemens per centimeter or less and with a clarity so that the sources can be seen clearly.
F. A physical barrier, such as a railing or cover, must be used around or over irradiator pools during normal operation to prevent personnel from accidentally falling into the pool. The barrier may be removed during maintenance, inspection and service operations.
G. If long-handled tools or poles are used in irradiator pools, the radiation dose rate on the handling areas of the tools may not exceed 0.02 millisievert (two millirems) per hour.
[5/3/1995; 20.3.15.1512 NMAC - Rn, 20 NMAC 3.1.15.1512, 4/15/2004]