Radiation and laser safety

Environmental Health and Safety provides support for the use of radioactive materials, X-ray machines and other sources of radiation at Arizona State University.

On this page, you will find guidance for safe work procedures designed to reduce the hazards of working with ionizing radiation. Safety manuals are available for radiation safety, radiation-producing machines, particle accelerators and lasers. Downloadable forms required for registrations, disposals, transfers and standard operating procedures are also available.

Compliance with safety training is required for authorization to use equipment regulated under the Office of Radiation Safety. 

• Laser safety training is intended for those working with low, medium and high-powered lasers. 
• Radiation-producing equipment training is intended for those working with radiation-producing sources. Additional on-site training is required.
• Radioactive materials safety training is intended for all personnel working with sealed or unsealed radioactive materials.

For more information on required safety courses or to access student training on Canvas, please visit the EHS training page.

• Laser Safety.
• Radioactive Materials.

• Declaration of Pregnancy.
• Emergency contacts.
• Laser eye self-inspection.
• Laser safety checklist.
• Laser Safety Operating Procedure.
• Radiation lab safety rules.

EHS maintains the university’s licenses and certificates of registration with the state of Arizona, allowing the use of radiation at ASU and is contingent upon Arizona Bureau of Radiation Control oversight and compliance with Title 9, Health Services, Chapter 7, Department of Health Services — Radiation Control.

Under the direction of the Radiation Safety Office, the Radiation Safety Committee promotes the mission to minimize occupational exposure to ionizing radiation and keep doses as low as reasonably achievable while maintaining compliance with local, state and federal regulations.