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DECLARED PREGNANT WORKER WAIVERS
At The University of Texas at Austin, we have a form for each female
to sign. This signing is done to acknowledge a Consultation, which is
presented by me, the RSO, and attended and witnessed by a female worker in
my office. At the Consultation, we present the basic information regarding
pregnancy and radiation, we describe the risks and responsibilities, and give
a copy of a paper describing pregnancy risks in general. We acquire
the estimated date of conception and delivery, the principal investigator's
name and lab room number, and home contact information. We also give the
worker a form for "Undeclaration of Pregnancy", and ask that she return the
form if for *any reason* she becomes no longer pregnant. We ensure fetal
dosimetry and start a file. The Consultation is cast in as positive manner as
possible, 'cause we share the worker's joy in the happy event (My wife is
pregnant, too!). We introduce her to the Rad Safety Staff, and ensure she has
all our numbers, check on her a few times during the pregnancy period and after
the est. conception date. We as of yet do not have a specialist, but have
several professionals at similar institutions in Texas who can help. Expectant
mothers are in a rapid and thorough learning mode, and our experiences have
been only good, including those who did not come to term. I can advise that
you document the consultation/conference, but calling the signed form a
"Waiver" may be a bit ambitious, possibly even legally risky.
Good luck!
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John C. White RSO º President, South Texas Chapter
The University of Texas at Austin OEHS º Health Physics Society
304 E. 24th St., SER 202 º - Host of 1997 HPS Conference
Austin, TX 78712-1024 º San Antonio, Texas
(512) 471-2042 º June 27-July 3
(512) 471-6918 FAX º *La Fiesta Grande!!*
OHJCW@UTXDP.DP.UTEXAS.EDU º