New Mexico Administrative Code
Title 20 - ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
Chapter 3 - RADIATION PROTECTION
Part 6 - X-RAYS IN HEALING ARTS
Section 20.3.6.609 - VETERINARY MEDICINE RADIOGRAPHIC INSTALLATIONS

(1) The protective tube housing shall be of diagnostic type.

(2) Diaphragms or cones shall be provided for collimating the useful beam to the area of clinical interest, and shall provide the same degree of protection as is required of the housing.

(3) The total filtration permanently in the useful beam shall not be less than 0.5 mm aluminum equivalent for machines operating up to 50 kVp, 1.5 mm aluminum for machines operating between 50-70 kVp, and 2.5 mm aluminum equivalent for machines operating above 70 kVp.

(4) A device shall be provided to terminate the exposure after a preset time or exposure.

(5) A dead-man type of exposure switch shall be provided, together with an electrical cord of sufficient length, so that the operator can stand out of the useful beam and at least 1.8 m from the animal during all x-ray exposures.

(1) The operator shall stand well away from the useful beam and the animal during radiographic exposures.

(2) No individual other than the operator shall be in the x-ray room while exposures are being made unless such individual's assistance is required.

(3) When an animal must be held in position during radiography, mechanical supporting or restraining devices should be used. If the animal must be held by an individual, that individual shall be protected with appropriate shielding devices, such as protective gloves and apron, and he shall so positioned that no part of his body will be struck by the useful beam. The exposure of any individual used for this purpose shall be monitored.