Recommended Standards For The Routine Performance Testing of Diagnostic X-Ray Imaging Systems

The first edition of this report was published in 1997 and contained essential guidance on routine quality assurance of imaging performance and patient dose for all professionals with an interest and responsibility in diagnostic x-ray imaging systems. The 1998 edition contains minor corrections to a small number of test tolerances and references. The entire diagnostic x-ray imaging system is covered in the report with information on radiography, fluoroscopy, computed tomography, digital, dental and mammography equipment. Clear advice is presented on the tests to be performed and with what priority, that is, which tests are essential and which are desirable. The level of expertise required to perform each test is indicated and how regularly each test should be performed. More frequent tests do not require sophisticated test equipment and analysis whereas other tests involve greater expertise and equipment resources. Although the method of performing each test is not included, test references provide information on where instructions may be obtained. For many of the tests very useful guidance is provided as to when results indicate further action should be taken. In short, this publication provides (i) clarification of the 'what, who, when and how' of x-ray equipment testing. This enables a uniform testing regime to be carried out by radiographic staff, medical physics staff and service engineers. (ii) remedial and suspension levels which assist in the interpretation of measurements. This should result in improved diagnosis of equipment performance and reporting time. (iii) useful guidance to a wide range of professionals including employers, managers, users, inspectors, purchasers and suppliers. It has important implications particularly for employers since, legally, they have responsibility for ensuring that the equipment used in connection with medical exposures is maintained so as to be capable of delivering doses that are as low as reasonably practicable.