Section 2: Purpose
The purpose of this manual is to provide information on the requirements necessary to meet the HARP Act and regulation's standards. It also explains the necessary components of proper Quality Assurance and Quality Control programs. In addition, it describes in detail all tests and procedures carried out by the Ministry of Health's X-ray Inspection Service.
Definitions
A quality assurance program:
Is a management tool that includes policies and procedures ensuring overall safe practices are observed in an x-ray department as well as ensuring that the performance of the x-ray equipment is at its optimum, in keeping with minimum exposure to both patients and personnel.
It is an ongoing process in order to keep up with the changes in technology, hospital policies, etc.
Quality Control:
Regular monitoring and testing of equipment with proper evaluation and corrective actions taken when necessary.
Implementation:
A successful quality assurance program depends on the understanding and support of all those involved in the operation of the facility. A program initiated solely to comply with the regulatory requirements of the Healing Arts Radiation Protection Act is not likely to provide the maximum possible benefit of patient care.
Responsibility for Quality Assurance Testing
Section 8 (2) of the HARP Regulation states:
"Every radiation protection officer shall establish and maintain procedures and tests for the x-ray machines and x-ray equipment in the facility for which he is a radiation protection officer to ensure compliance with this Regulation."
Quality assurance activities are the responsibility of all members of a facility, but the ultimate accountability rests with the Radiation Protection Officer (RPO). The degree of involvement of other members of the facility will vary depending upon the size and organization of the facility.
A Quality Assurance Program Must Include
X-ray Safety procedural/policy manual. Refer to the General Information - Section 13 of this manual for more information about this topic·
Plan Approval for all x-ray rooms. Refer to Plan Approval - Section 14 of this manual for more information.
a) Developer sensitometry on a daily basis (including weekends if applicable).
b) Testing of x-ray equipment on a regular basis and analysing results (refer to the
Regulation for required frequency of testing).
