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Using Your Analyzer
Safely and Effectively Using Your Analyzer
Radiation and General Safety
Radiation Protection Basics
This section discusses the basics of using your analyzer, no matter the
specific type of analysis you wish to perform. First we go over analyzer
safety, particularly radiation safety. Using an X-ray based analyzer safely
is very important, and not difficult, provided you read, understand, and
follow these guidelines. Secondly, we outline the startup procedure we
recommend for daily use to ensure that your analyzer is performing
properly and at its most efficient level.
CAUTION Niton analyzers are not intrinsically safe analyzers. All
pertinent Hot Work procedures should be followed in areas of concern.
WARNING Always treat radiation with respect. Do not hold your
analyzer near the measurement window during testing. Never point your
analyzer at yourself or anyone else when the shutter is open.
This section covers topics related to radiation safety and general safety
when using a Thermo Scientific Niton XL2 analyzer. At a minimum all
operators of the analyzer should be familiar with the instructions
provided in this chapter in order to handle the analyzer in a safe manner.
In addition to reading the information presented on the following pages,
Thermo Fisher Scientific recommends that instrument users participate
in a radiation safety and operational training class.
The Niton Model XL2 analyzer contains an x-ray tube which emits
radiation only when the user turns the x-ray tube on. When the x-ray
tube is on and the shutter is open, as during a measurement, the analyzer
emits a directed radiation beam - see Figures 1-1 and 1-2. Reasonable
effort should be made to maintain exposures to radiation as far below
dose limits as is practical. This is known as the ALARA (As Low as
Reasonably Achievable) principle. For any given source of radiation,
three factors will help minimize your radiation exposure: Time,
Distance, and Shielding.
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