Radiation Safety

Welcome to TSU's Radiation Safety Program

The Tennessee Sate University Radiation Safety Program is dedicated to ensuring the safe and responsible use of radiation and radioactive materials in research, teaching, and medical applications across campus. Our goal is to protect students, faculty, staff, and the community while promoting compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations.

What We Do

  • Monitor 听the use of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation sources

  • Provide training 听and certification for authorized users

  • Conduct safety audits 听and laboratory inspections

  • Manage radiation licenses and regulatory compliance

  • Track and control 听radioactive material inventory and disposal

  • Respond to incidents听 and provide emergency support

Who Needs to Participate

You must participate in the Radiation Safety Program if you:

  • Work with听 radioactive materials

  • Use听 radiation-producing equipment 听(e.g., X-ray, CT, electron microscopes)

  • Handle听 lasers, UV light, or other听 non-ionizing radiation sources

  • Are involved in听 research or teaching 听that involves radiation exposure

Key Components听

Training and Authorization Before using any radiation source, you must complete radiation safety training and receive approval from the Radiation Safety Officer (RSO). Annual refresher training is also required.
Radiation Safety Officer (RSO) The RSO oversees the campus radiation program, approves protocols, monitors exposures, and ensures regulatory compliance.
Radiation Safety Committee (RSC)听 听 听 听 The RSC reviews proposed radiation use in research or instruction and provides oversight of program effectiveness.
Radioactive Waste Disposal Proper waste segregation and disposal are essential. Contact the Radiation Safety Office for guidance on disposing of radioactive materials.
Inspections & Compliance All radiation labs are subject to periodic inspections. The Radiation Safety Office helps identify and resolve any safety issues.

Radiation Authorization and Use Process

  1. Complete Radiation Safety Training

  2. Submit a Radiation Use Authorization Request

  3. Schedule a Lab Evaluation with the RSO

  4. Receive Approval to Begin Work

Quick Links

  • Radiation Safety Training Portal

  • Radiation Use Authorization Forms

  • Radiation Safety Manual (PDF)

  • Incident Reporting Form