Critical Examination
This test is carried out by the installer immediately following installation to confirm that the positioning of the equipment provides sufficient protection against exposure to ionising radiation and that all safety features and warning devices operate correctly. It is the responsibility of the installer to undertake the critical examination.
Ensure that the person who erects or installs the equipment, in consultation with a Radiation Protection Adviser, conducts a critical examination immediately following installation.
Obtain a report of this examination and ensure that the installer provides information on the proper use, testing, and maintenance of the equipment. Keep a copy of the report in the Radiation Protection File.
Do not use the equipment until a critical examination has been carried out.
Acceptance Test
The acceptance test, also carried out at installation, involves all aspects of the critical examination in addition to measurements to check that the equipment is operating within agreed performance parameters. Included in this test are measurements to assess representative patient doses which provide baseline values against which the results of subsequent routine tests can be compared. It is the responsibility of the Employer to ensure that the acceptance and subsequent routine tests are carried out.
Ensure that an acceptance test is carried out at installation before the equipment is put into clinical use.
Obtain a report of this examination so that the results can be the basis of the subsequent quality assurance programme. Keep a copy of the report in the Radiation Protection File.