Our analytical XRD instruments use X-ray radiation to investigate the structure of crystallized biomolecular assemblies using X-ray diffraction (XRD) .
X-Ray radiation is a form of ionization radiation that is potentially very hazardous. Although the X-ray radiation generated by our X-ray generators will usually only penetrate the body 2-4 cm, it still has the potential to be very hazardous. Direct exposure to the X-ray beam can lead to radiation damage, burns of the skin and underlying tissue, and in extreme cases could make skin grafts and even amputation necessary. Exposure of the X-ray beams to the eye can lead to permanent cataracts and loss of vision.
So please stay safe, follow all safety protocols strictly and remember: Safety is as simple as ABC - Always Be Careful!
If used with care, while following all safety precautions it is quite safe to operate our XRD machines.
Safety Pointers
The list below gives some important safety pointers. But it is not exclusive and users will learn more in the mandatory trainings to be completed before a new user starts using the X-ray facility.
- Only trained personnel are permitted to operate our analytical XRD units.
- Follow all safety protocols at all times - no shortcuts.
- Be aware of the beam path.
- Never place any part of your body in the direct beam path - even if the shutter is closed.
- Make sure all exposures are completed and the shutter is closed before you go in the X-ray enclosure.
- Make sure the red shutter light is off before you mount/dismount your crystals. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on the indicator light when you are close to the direct beam. The red light will be on if the shutter is open and off when the shutter is closed.
- Do not bypass the safety interlocks for any reason.
- Close and lock the enclosure doors before starting exposures.
- Do not use the door interlocks to close the shutter unless in an emergency. Close the shutter using the computer control outside the enclosure.
- Never make alterations to the XRD instruments.
- Always wear your dosimeter body badge if you go into the X-ray enclosure.
- Always wear safety glasses, long pants and closed toe shoes in the X-ray lab, especially if handling liquid Nitrogen during crystal freezing and mounting.
- When in doubt, shut the X-ray generator down and contact the facility director Dr. Annette Erbse and/or EH&S. Dr. Erbse's cell phone and home phone numbers are displayed throughout the X-ray facility, including on the safety enclosures of the XRD instruments and on the emergency contact cards at the doors to the X-ray lab. If you are unsure about the safety of your experiment, she does not mind you calling even when its late at night.
" I would rather lose a little sleep preventing an accident than a lot of sleep over the consequences of one!" (Annette Erbse)