Radiation Safety

The Radiation Safety Program protect students, faculty, staff, and the public from the hazards associated with ionizing radiation. The program ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, promotes safe practices. The program aims to foster innovation, enhance research capabilities, and ensure the highest standards of safety and compliance. The program encompasses the Radiation Safety Committee which regulates the use of radioactive materials, radiation-producing devices, and the management of radioactive waste. The program includes the Radiation Safety Committee and collaborates with the HU Department of Environmental Health and Safety (EHS).

Radiation Safety Committee

The Research Safety Committee is dedicated to ensuring the safe use of radioactive materials and sources of ionizing radiation. The committee formulates policies, provides oversight, and supports the implementation of radiation safety programs to protect researchers, staff, the public, and the environment. It ensures compliance with federal regulations and institutional policies.

The Research Safety Committee

• Ensure that research done at Howard University adheres to all applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing the use of ionizing radiation.

• Implement practices to keep radiation exposure and releases of radioactive materials as low as reasonably achievable.

• Analyze incidents involving radiation to identify causes and recommend preventive actions.

• Perform routine monitoring and audits to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.

The Radiation Safety Committee is assured by the DC Department of Health - Radiation Control and Medical Devices Division and the U.S. Nuclear Commission.

Membership

The Radiation Safety Committee is composed of at least two Howard University practicing scientists from various academic units.

The Radiation Safety Committee Chairperson is Satya Bose, Ph.D., DABR. Associate Professor of Radiation Oncology.

Meetings

The Radiation Safety Committee meets quarterly.