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• Radiation Publications
 

References

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• Radiation Glossary

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Learn more about the Division of Environmental Health

X-Ray Section 

The X-Ray Section of the Office of Radiation Protection is the largest section in the Office, with inspectors in Olympia, Bellevue, Spokane, and Yakima.  The Section conducts about 1800 inspections a year and finds violations of regulations in approximately 25% of the facilities.  Facilities are required to correct these violations, although no fines or penalties are assessed.

The main emphasis is on patient exposure and operator protection.  This Section evaluates film processing, machine performance, technologist qualifications, and image quality. 

X-Ray Facts to Remember

• X-rays do not bounce around in a room after an exposure; there is some scatter radiation during the exposure, of course, but since X-rays travel at the speed of light  (just as light does!), there is no lingering radiation after the X-ray exam.

• X-rays do not "accumulate" in one's body after X-ray exams are done. However, it is true that the EFFECTS of exposure can accumulate.

• X-rays do not make you radioactive after the exposure.

• X-rays are like gamma rays. Neither should be compared to sunshine, microwaves, or other non-ionizing types of radiation. Microwaves, radiowaves, cellular phone frequencies, or 60 Hz electrical power line magnetic fields are NOT the same as X-rays and other forms of ionizing radiation.

External Links

American College of Radiology - Patient Info

Computed Tomography (CT)

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Radiology Information

Radiation Emitting-Products

Understanding Radiation - Overview

Links to external resources are provided as a public service and do not imply endorsement by the Washington State Department of Health.

Contact Information

X-Ray Control Section
P.O. Box 47827
Olympia, WA 98504-7827

Phone 360-236-3236

In-State Toll Free 1-800-299-9729

FAX 360-236-2266

Olympia X-Ray Staff:

Bellevue X-Ray Staff:

Kent X-Ray Staff:

Spokane X-Ray Staff:

Yakima X-Ray Staff: