[ RadSafe ] interesting new question

[Clayton J Bradt]

The use of x-ray producing devices is regulated by the states.  As was 
states previously, FDA has regulations for the manufacture of such 
devices, but the users of the devices do so under state authority.  In New 
York State, the public health law states (roughly) that it is illegal for 
anyone other than a licensed practitioner to apply ionizing radiation to 
humans.  Unless the operator of one of these backscatter vans is a 
physician, PA, dentist, podiatrist, or x-ray technician working under the 
direction of a physician, their use for irradiating humans is strictly 
forbidden.  The doses involved are irrelevant.  Furthermore, any medical 
professional ordering the use of x-ray equipment on humans for purely 
security reasons (i.e. no medical benefit to the patient) would probably 
risk loss of his/her license to practice.  More importantly, the resulting 
malpractice suits would bankrupt the insurance companies.


Clayton J. Bradt
Principal Radiophysicist
NYS Dept. of Health
Biggs Laboratory, Room D486A
Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12201-0509

518-474-1993

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