Lessons Learned from Commissioning a High Activity Gamma Cabinet Irradiator at Ontario Tech University

Dr. Edward Waller | Ontario Tech UniversityRiver Cree Ballroom 1

A cabinet irradiator is a device in which the source of radiation and exposure receptors are contained within a shielded cabinet such that the dose rates external to the cabinet, even under irradiation, are minimal. There are numerous steps that are required for commissioning this type of equipment including:

(i) procurement,

(ii) facilities management,

(iii) security,

(iv) regulatory application and approval,

(v) cabinet manufacture, delivery and install,

(vi) source production, delivery and install, and

(vii) final calibration and site acceptance.

A Hopewell Design Industries model BX3-BR was ordered in late 2019. Unfortunately, the pandemic created a cascade of problems and issues related to the timely delivery and installation of this unit. This talk will discuss the steps taken to acquire this irradiator, the pitfalls encountered along the way, and numerous lessons learned.

Wed 10:45 am - 12:00 pm