University of North Texas 
UNT follows the principle of keeping exposure to ionizing radiation as low as reasonably achievable, commonly referred to as ALARA.
UNT uses ALARA Level 1 and ALARA Level 2 investigation levels to support dosimetry monitoring, dose assessment, and follow-up when radiation exposure exceeds established action levels. If an individual exceeds an ALARA action level, the Radiation Safety Officer will report the exposure to the Radiation Safety Committee and the appropriate Principal Investigator.
Dosimeters, including badges and rings, measure radiation exposure for radiation workers. Dosimeters help document occupational exposure and support compliance with applicable annual dose limits. The type of dosimeter issued depends on the type of ionizing radiation and the work being performed.
Radiation workers who may receive more than 10 percent of an applicable annual occupational dose limit from external radiation must be monitored using personnel dosimetry. Dosimetry should be requested from the Radiation Safety Officer before an individual begins or resumes work with a radiation source.
Occupational dose limits apply to radiation workers who are occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation. Annual occupational dose limits for adults include:
5 rem total effective dose equivalent (TEDE)
50 rem to an individual organ or tissue, other than the lens of the eye
15 rem to the lens of the eye
50 rem shallow-dose equivalent to the skin or any extremity
Declaration of pregnancy is voluntary. After a radiation worker declares pregnancy in writing, the Radiation Safety Officer will monitor occupational exposure to the embryo.
The dose equivalent to the embryo/fetus during the entire pregnancy, due to occupational exposure after declaration, must not exceed 500 mrem. A declared pregnant radiation worker may withdraw the declaration at any time. If the declaration is withdrawn, the standard occupational dose limits for radiation workers apply.
Radioactive Waste Disposal
Radioactive waste is generated through the use of radioactive materials and must be managed in a way that protects workers, the public, and the environment.
Radioactive waste must be stored in appropriate, labeled waste containers and secured to prevent improper disposal.
Solid radioactive waste should be stored in a rigid container with a lid and lined with a plastic bag. Liquid radioactive waste should be stored in a chemically compatible container that is sealed with a screw-on cap and placed in secondary containment large enough to hold the contents. Shielding must be used when needed to prevent unnecessary radiation exposure.
Radioactive waste containers must be labeled with a Caution Radioactive Material label. Labels must be legible and include:
The isotope
Principal Investigator information
The type of waste
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Radiation Safety personnel must dispose of radioactive material waste. Principal Investigators and laboratory personnel are responsible for segregating waste by category and radionuclide before pickup.
Before radioactive waste pickup:
Keep waste segregated by category and radionuclide.
Keep waste containers closed and secured at all times.
Place liquid waste in a chemically compatible container with a screw-on cap.
Tag waste properly with the required waste label.
Submit the appropriate waste pickup request.
Radioactive waste is collected and disposed of by the Radiation Safety Officer or designee.
Hazardous Waste Pickup Request