Radioactive Materials
Training Courses
Policies and Procedures
Radiation and Radioactive Materials (RAM) are valuable tools in research.
There are more than 30 labs using radionuclides at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU).
RAM are used in a variety of disciplines ranging from the biological sciences to physics.
RAM can be classified as unsealed material, sealed sources or generally licensed devices.
Unsealed materials are typically liquid chemicals that are radioactive. Special care must be taken when handling these materials to limit exposure and prevent contamination. Principle Investigators must apply for a Radionuclide Authorization (RA) from the Radiation Safety Committee
Sealed sources are solid materials, usually metal or plastic, that encapsulate a core of radioactive material. While sealed sources emit radiation, they are designed so that the radioactive material stays within, minimizing the chance of contamination. Sealed source activities also require a RA.
Generally licensed devices are instruments that require a radioactive component in order to function properly. Examples of these include static eliminators, aerosol neutralizers and some gas chromatographs. No special authorization is required to use or possess these articles; however, they must be registered with the Radiation Safety Office.
Training Courses
Ancillary Safety Training is required for those persons who do not work with radioactive materials themselves, but who work in an area posted for radioactive materials, or who have cause to enter such an area as part of their work.
Radionuclide (RAM) New User Training is the first step to using either unsealed RAM or sealed sources (or both). This training is available online but arrangements may be made with the Radiation Safety Office to have training conducted in person for larger groups.
Back to TopThe second step is completion of the training practicum. The practicum is conducted in a laboratory environment and allows new users to practice survey and spill response. Arrangements for this training may be made when completing the information page following the online quiz.
Policies and Procedures
This section is currently under development for our website. If you have any questions regarding Radiation Safety policies and procedures, please contact our RSO at (412) 268-8405.