Section R12-1-738. Periodic Spot-checks for Remote Afterloader Units

A.      A licensee authorized to use a remote afterloader unit for med-

ical use shall perform spot-checks of each remote afterloader facility and on each unit:

1.        Before the first use of a high dose-rate, medium dose- rate, or pulsed dose-rate remote afterloader unit on a given day;

2.        Before each patient treatment with a low dose-rate remote afterloader unit; and

3.        After each source installation.

B.       A licensee shall perform the measurements required by sub- section (A) in accordance with written procedures established by an authorized medical physicist. That individual need not actually perform the spot-check measurements.

C.      A licensee shall have an authorized medical physicist review the results of each spot-check within 15 days. The authorized medical physicist shall notify the licensee as soon as possible in writing of the results of each spot-check.

D.      To satisfy the requirements of subsection (A), spot-checks shall, at a minimum, assure proper operation of:

1.        Electrical interlocks at each remote afterloader unit room entrance;

2.        Source  exposure  indicator  lights  on the  remote  after- loader unit, on the control console, and in the facility;

3.        Viewing and intercom systems in each high dose-rate, medium dose-rate, and pulsed dose-rate remote after- loader facility;

4.        Emergency response equipment;

5.        Radiation monitors used to indicate the source position;

6.        Timer accuracy;

7.        Clock (date and time) in the unit’s computer; and

8.        Decayed source activity in the unit’s computer.

E.       If the results of the checks required in subsection (D) indicate the malfunction of any system, a licensee shall lock the control console in the off position and not use the unit except as may be necessary to repair, replace, or check the malfunctioning system.

F.       A licensee shall retain a record of each spot-check required by subsections (A) and (D) for three years from the date of the procedure, and a copy of the procedures required by subsec- tion (B) until licensee terminates all medical activities involv- ing the afterloader unit.

Historical Note

New Section made by final rulemaking at 13 A.A.R.

1217, effective May 5, 2007 (Supp. 07-1).