Radiological Safety

Ionizing Radiation

Utah State University is licensed to use radioactive materials and devices by Utah’s Division of Waste Management and Radiation Control. Under this license, authority to review and approve campus uses of regulated radiological materials and devices is delegated to the Radiation Safety Committee (RSC).

The license also establishes a Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) for implementation of a Radiation Safety Program, as well as to ensure that work related exposures are As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA). 

The use of radioisotopes is tightly controlled, and all persons using them must be registered and properly trained. This license is available for review, upon request, at Environmental Health and Safety offices during normal business hours.

Download the USU Radiation Safety Awareness Guide Download the USU Radiation Safety Handbook

For further information, contact Rachel Curry.

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Non-ionizing radiation refers to any type of electromagnetic radiation that does not carry enough energy to ionize atoms or molecules. Typical sources of non-ionizing radiation at Utah State University include, lasers, UV lamps, infrared radiation, magnetic radiation, and microwave radiation. Utah State University has adopted ANSI Z136.1-2007 and ANSI Z136.1-2009 as its regulatory document for laser safety.

Download the USU Laser Safety Manual

Utah State University has established a Laser Safety Officer (LSO) to ensure that work related exposures to non-ionizing radiation is below the Maximum Permissible Exposure (MPE). Research processes that use Class 3B lasers and Class 4 lasers are are regulated by the LSO and reviewed on an annual basis.

For further information, please call (435) 797-2892.