Where can I get radioactive waste tags?
All radioactive waste requests are submitted through EHS Integrator. When you submit a request, the system automatically generates a completed waste tag to attach to waste containers.
Radiation Safety FAQs
What is the telephone number for waste inquiry?
The telephone number is 203-432-6545. Please use this number for inquiries only.
What type of shielding should I use for the waste inside my lab?
The Radiation Safety Manual is a great reference to the types of shielding required for your specific isotopes. You can also ask your Safety Advisor.
Do I have to segregate isotopes in my waste streams?
Yes. The dry and LSV waste must be segregated by half-life. Liquid waste must be segregated by isotope.
What do you actually pickup when a radioactive waste request is submitted?
For dry waste, we pick up the bags inside the boxes. We then replace the bags. For liquid waste, we will pick up and replace the whole container (one or five gallon only). For LSV waste, we pick up and replace the drums. For stock vial waste, we pick up the packaged box of stock vials.
What types of x-ray equipment are present at Yale?
Yale University has medical, veterinary and research x-ray equipment. The specific types of x-ray equipment may be designed to image human patients, animals, viruses, ceramics and for a large number of other purposes.
Radiation Safety should be notified as soon as any purchase of x-ray equipment is planned so that shielding and other safety requirements can be determined. X-ray equipment must be registered with the State of Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection. Any fees are the responsibility of the Principal Investigator.
Does lab equipment require decontamination prior to disposal, repair or servicing?
Yes. There are strict controls on the disposal of radioactive material. Equipment for disposal must be surveyed by members of Radiation Safety prior to release for disposal. For broken equipment that has been used with radioactive material, a Radiation Safety release survey must be completed prior to allowing Yale repair persons or outside vendors to service the equipment. Call 203-737-2121 to arrange for release surveys.
What is ALARA?
ALARA is a philosophy of excellence used in day-to-day work with radioactive materials, which strives to keep radiation exposure “As Low as Reasonably Achievable”. See Yale’s ALARA Program for more information.
How do I get a badge?
You must first attend a Radiation Safety Orientation Seminar. Once you are trained, complete a Radiation Monitoring Service Form. You can be issued a badge immediately or the badge can be forwarded to you through campus mail.
Who needs a radiation dose monitor (film badge)?
If it is likely that your radiation dose will exceed 10 percent of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s limits or 25 percent of the State of CT Department of Energy & Environmental Protection limits, you will need to wear a personal radiation monitoring badge.
