MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS

Misconnect test after reloading sealed source into the exposure device

After performing the annual maintenance, the complete locking system should be tested by the maintenance program administrator or Radiation Safety Officer. A misconnect test on the exposure device including the radioactive source assembly effectively tests the integrity of the entire locking system. This procedure detects long-term wear (or damage) of control and locking mechanism components including the control cable and sealed source connectors simultaneously.

The test should only be performed by personnel that are formally trained, authorized and thoroughly familiar with annual maintenance procedures. This test is performed by engaging the remote control connecting plug assembly into the exposure device's locking mechanism without first engaging the control cable connector within the source assembly connector. The ability to then rotate the locking mechanism from the CONNECT position towards the LOCK position indicates critical dimensions of the locking system are excessively worn

to a unsafe condition. Extreme care should be exercised to prevent rotating the locking mechanism's selector ring beyond the LOCK position. If the locking mechanism and remote controls fail a misconnect test the equipment must be removed from radiographic operations. The equipment must not be used until repairs are performed and misconnect test results are satisfactory.

During the performance of the misconnect test there is a risk of losing control of the radioactive source assembly if:

●the components are excessively worn or damaged

●the person performing the test intentionally or inadvertently rotates the selector ring from the CONNECT position to the OPERATE position

●the person performing the test intentionally or inadvertently pushes the lock slide into the EXPOSURE mode.

Contact an AEA Technology service center if you have questions regarding the misconnect test.

Annual maintenance records

Records of all equipment inspected and maintained during the annual maintenance must be recorded. Records should indicate:

●the date of the inspection and maintenance.

●name of the qualified individual performing the required inspections.

●problems found and maintenance or repairs performed.

●model number and serial number of the exposure device.

●associated equipment that was inspected and maintained.

●part numbers and associated lot numbers or serial numbers of replacement parts installed.

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