(1) Equipment Requirements.
- (a) In the event of equipment failure affecting data collection, means shall be provided to terminate the x-ray exposure automatically by either de-energizing the x-ray source or intercepting the x-ray beam with a shutter mechanism through the use of either a back-up timer or devices which monitor equipment function.
- (b) A visible signal shall indicate when the x-ray exposure has been terminated through the means required by R313-28-160 (1)(a).
- (c) The operator shall be able to terminate the x-ray exposure at any time during a scan, or series of scans, of greater than 0.5 second duration.
(2) Tomographic Plane Indication and Alignment.
- (a) Means shall be provided to permit visual determination of the location of a reference plane. This reference plane can be offset from the location of the tomographic plane.
- (b) If a device using a light source is used to satisfy R313-28-160 (2)(a), the light source shall provide illumination at levels sufficient to permit visual determination of the location of the tomographic plane or reference plane.
- (c) The total error in the indicated location of the tomographic plane or reference plane shall not exceed 5 millimeters.
(3) Beam-On and Shutter Status Indicators.
- (a) The computed tomography (CT) x-ray control panel and CT gantry shall provide visual indication whenever x-rays are produced and, if applicable, whether the shutter is open or closed.
- (b) Each emergency button or switch shall be clearly labeled as to its function.
(4) Indication of CT Conditions of Operation.
- (a) The CT x-ray system shall be designed such that technique factors, tomographic section thickness, and scan increment shall be indicated prior to the initiation of a scan or series of scans.
(5) Quality Assurance Procedures. Quality assurance procedures shall be conducted on the CT x-ray equipment.
(a) The quality assurance procedures shall be in writing. Such procedures shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
- (i) Specifications of the tests that are to be performed, including instructions to be employed in the performance of those tests; and
- (ii) Specifications of the frequency at which tests are to be performed, the acceptable tolerance for each parameter measured and actions to be taken if tolerances are exceeded.
- (b) The parameters measured to satisfy R313-28-160(5)(a)(ii) shall include, but not be limited to, kVp, mA and reproducibility of dose appropriate to the type of CT procedures performed.
- (c) Records of tests performed to satisfy the requirements of R313-28-160(5)(a) and (b) shall be maintained for three years for inspection by the Division.
(6) Dose Calibration.
- (a) Radiation measurements shall be performed at least annually and after change or replacement of components which could cause a change in the radiation output.
- (b) The calibration of the radiation measuring instrument shall be traceable to a national standard and shall be calibrated at intervals not to exceed two years.
- (c) Measurements shall be specified in terms of the multiple scan average dose, using phantoms and technique factors appropriate to the type of CT procedures performed.
KEY: dental, X-rays, mammography, beam limitation
Date of Last Change: September 15, 2025
Notice of Continuation: April 6, 2026
Authorizing, and Implemented or Interpreted Law: 19-3-104; 19-6-107