VIVID MVT-4 X-ray luggage detection system

[SBD <sbd@co.disp.mindef.nl>]

Does anybody have information on the exposure levels at (1) the
entrance, (2) the exit of the machine (both with intact lead flaps), (3)
the cabinetry surface (sides) and (4) the operators position of the
VIVID MVT-4 (Multi-view tomography)?

According to the manufacturer's data sheet the MVT-4 X-ray machine
contains "three pulsed, true dual energy X-ray fan beams operating at 75
kVp / 150 kVp. Two sources projecting upward from below the conveyor
belt and one projecting across the belt".
On radiation safety, the technical data sheet states "complies with all
applicable international radiation and health regulations. Radiation
dose to the item under inspection is less than .25 mR (2,5
microsievert)".

In our country this machine (as its voltage is above 100 kV) has to be
licensed (Nuclear Energy Act) before it can be tested or plainly used.
To prove its radiation safety however, we either have to test it (not
allowed without a license) or to have some more info from the
manufacturer.
I have asked VIVID to give me the necessary information, but as this
case is rather urgent to us (and I also like to get some independant
information), I hope that a radsafe colleague has done some tests on
this machine already or knows where to get it?

According to my experience, most manufacturers think they have supplied
you with enough information by stating that it meets "all US
regulations" or "all applicable international radiation and health
regulations".  I may be paranoid, but this statement is not enough to me
(nor to the governmental licencer): its officially traceable figures we
need! And with regard to radiation safety, the dose on the item under
inspection (being luggage) is not important, its what comes out that
counts.

ing. Jetty Middelkoop
Head of the Radiological Protection Service
(Stralingsbeschermingsdienst, SBD)
Netherlands Ministry of Defence
Postbox 382
3720 AJ  Bilthoven
The Netherlands
tel. 0031-346-217837
fax 0031-346-217848
e-mail: sbd@co.disp.mindef.nl


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