IRRSP - Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel Radiographic Equipment Operation Questions and Answers

Question 1

A radiographer is cranking out a source and feels significant, unusual resistance in the drive cable. Forcing the crank is unsuccessful. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Accepted Answer

Attempt to retract the source, and if it retracts, investigate the guide tube for blockages.

Answer

Unusual resistance often indicates a kinked or crushed guide tube. Forcing the crank can cause a source disconnect. The correct procedure is to stop, attempt to safely retract the source, and then investigate the cause of the problem, such as an issue with the guide tube, before proceeding.

Question 2

What is the primary safety function of the locking mechanism on a radiographic exposure device?

Accepted Answer

To prevent unauthorized use and secure the source in its shielded position.

Answer

The lock's main purpose is to secure the sealed source within its shielded container, preventing accidental exposure or unauthorized operation of the device. This is a critical administrative and engineering control for radiation safety.

Question 3

According to 10 CFR Part 34, which of the following is a required daily operability check that must be performed on a radiographic exposure device before its first use of the day?

Accepted Answer

A visual check of the drive cable for kinks and fraying.

Answer

10 CFR 34.31 requires licensees to perform visual and operability checks on radiographic exposure devices and associated equipment before use each day. This includes inspecting the crank, drive cable, and guide tube connections for any damage or defects that could compromise safety.

Question 4

After retracting a source, a radiographer's survey meter shows readings significantly above background along the guide tube and at the exposure device. This indicates the source is not properly shielded. After securing the restricted area, what is the radiographer's NEXT step?

Accepted Answer

Immediately notify the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) and follow the established emergency procedure.

Answer

If the source fails to return to the fully shielded position, it is an abnormal event that requires initiating the company's emergency procedures. The first steps are always to secure the area to prevent further exposure and then immediately contact the RSO for guidance. Attempting to manipulate the equipment without a specific plan can worsen the situation.

Question 5

In a gamma radiography setup, what is the primary purpose of using a collimator?

Accepted Answer

To narrow the primary radiation beam to the area of interest, reducing scatter and dose.

Answer

A collimator is a shielding device that shapes and directs the primary radiation beam. Its use reduces the size of the high-radiation area, minimizes scatter radiation, and helps reduce the radiation dose to both the public and radiographic personnel, in line with ALARA principles.

IRRSP - Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel Practice Test

IRRSP - Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel Practice Test

IRRSP - Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel Radiographic Equipment Operation Questions and Answers