x-ray light requirements

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john37

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Riverside, California
Does anyone know if a "x-ray in use" light is required by code to be mounted outside the door of imaging rooms (MRI, CT)? I have been looking through NFPA 99 Health Care Facilities & NFPA 101 Life Safety Code but haven't had luck finding anything. If it is required by code, can someone please refer me to which code? Thank you.
 
So if I'm understanding this correctly, if the manufacturer is not requiring it then it's not required by the life safety or health care facilities codes?

In my case, I have a CT scanner room that has a toilet room with two entrances. One entrance is from the scanner room and the other is from the main corridor. The issue is if we need to put a "x-ray in use" sign inside the toilet room above the door leading into the x-ray scanner room. Someone can enter the toilet room from the main corridor and not know that the x-ray scanner is in use, therefore could possibly open the door into the x-ray scanner room while it is being in use.

The owners are asking if this is a code requirement or if they can do with out it. From a safety standpoint, I would think it's a good idea to have one, but they are asking if it's a life safety or health care facilities code. I can't find anything requiring it in either code. Thanks.
 
I always show this on any plans i do for either Xray or CT equipment. (MRI's are a slightly different animal - I think they usually have a kill switch tied to the door, and the entry door is usually in a controlled location.)

I would ask your local inspector if these are required. I have a feeling that most inspectors would require the warning lights, even if they can't find it somewhere in the code.

I'm really supprised a hospital would not want to install these. Most hospitals are usually more safety minded. Although, they are also very revenue oriented: The first time someone walks into the room and stops a scan that's in progress, I'll bet they will be crying for a warning light.

JAHCO is also something to consider. That's an independent inspection orginaziation that rates hospitals. They inspect both facilities and general operating procedures. If their rules require a warning light, and the hospital gets cited for not having one, someone will be retro fitting one.
 
Thanks Steve. It's a no brainer to me. From a safety standpoint I don't see it breaking the budget in putting the x-ray sign inside the toilet room for safety. The project got built and for whatever reason the sign did not get installed even though it was shown on the electrical drawings. I inquired if the hospital has a safety officer that can give his opinion as well. I'll ask our local inspector as well. Thanks
 
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