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 ORS - Administration
TJ Whittenhall
Radiation Safety Specialist (RSS) - Chicago Campus
phone: 3-8300, e-mail: j-whittenhall@northwestern.edu
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The RSS is responsible for several aspects of the radiation safety program on the Chicago campus including laboratory surveys, radionuclide inventory, and bioassay. The RSS surveys radiation laboratories at regular intervals and advises investigators and radiation workers on radiation safety, University policies and procedures, and government regulations. Surveys may include checking for contamination, measuring air flow through chemical fume hoods, and observing work practices. The RSS sends a written report to the investigator.

ORS must approve all radioactive materials orders and receive the shipments. The RSS approves orders electronically, checks incoming shipments for contamination, updates inventory records and prepares packages and inventory forms for delivery to the laboratory.

Individuals who use specified quantities of radioactive materials must submit bioassay samples to ORS for analysis. The RSS monitors compliance with the policy by reviewing usage records on inventory forms and prepares and analyzes the samples.

Contact the RSS if you have questions such as:

  • Where is my package?
  • When do I have to submit a bioassay sample?
  • How do I order radioactive materials?
  • What is my inventory balance?
  • How do I use my survey meter?
  • What should I do when I find contamination?
  • What type of survey meter and probe should I use?
  • How can I decontaminate areas?
  • How can I set up safe experiments using radiolabeled compounds?
  • How can I sign up to be a radiation worker?
  • What types of signage do I need in my lab?
  • What do I do if I am pregnant?
  • How can I shield the type of radiation I am using?

Internal ORS Links: What's New | Emergency Response | Administration | Biological Safety | Chemical Safety | Hazard Communication | Laboratory Safety | New to NU? | Radiation Safety

External ORS Links: Northwestern Home | Vice President for Research | Big 10 EH&S Links | Risk Management | Employee Safety Handbook

ORS - Evanston • 2145 Sheridan Road • Tech NG71 • Evanston, IL 60208
ORS - Chicago • 303 E. Chicago Avenue • Ward B106 W223 • Chicago, IL 60611
Phone 847/491-5581 or 312/503-8300 • FAX 847/467-2797 or 312/503-0547
e-mail researchsafety@northwestern.edu
Last Revision 05/16/2007
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