All radiation producing devices (RPD) are regulated by the Washington State Department of Health and must be registered with the state prior to use. The University possesses one registration managed by EH&S’s Radiation Safety team. Depending on the type of device and its intended use, there are requirements for facility design, worker training and protection, and device operation.
Radiation producing devices are any equipment that when energized capable of emitting ionizing radiation. Types of radiation producing devices include X-ray diffraction or fluorescence units, electron microscopes, particle accelerators, E-beam evaporator, and veterinary/dental/medical radiography devices.
All radiation producing devices used in UW owned or leased facilities must be registered using this form.
The use of radioactive materials at the University is regulated by the Washington State Department of Health and strictly controlled by Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S).
Radioactive material is ordered by authorized users and delivered to EH&S’s Radiation Safety Team, which distributes the material to authorized personnel.
Created and used by EH&S’s Radiation Safety Program
Federal and state regulations require the UW to monitor the radiation dose to employees who may be exposed to radiation as part of their job duties.
Employees whose job duties result in exposure to radiation may be assigned dosimeters to monitor their exposure. Depending on the source and amount of exposure, this may include whole body badges, rings or both. Individual badges are collected monthly or quarterly, and the reported doses are reviewed by an EH&S Radiation Safety team member.
Updated June 5, 2024
The Non-Ionizing Radiation Safety Program is designed to help protect University personnel, students and the general public from the harmful effects of non-ionizing radiation.
Updated February 7, 2025
The Laser Safety Program facilitates the safe and knowledgeable use of lasers in University laboratories and classrooms, and ensures the protection of the environment.
The Laser Safety Program applies to all UW personnel owning, supervising, operating, and working in proximity to Class 3B or Class 4 lasers.
The Radiation Safety Committee (RSC) is responsible for the safe use of radiation producing devices and radioactive materials at all UW locations, including the UW Medical Center and Harborview Medical Center.
The RSC is comprised of members from departments across the University that regularly use radiation producing devices or radioactive materials.
In addition, several members are specifically designated, including:
