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Radiation Compliance
LDEQ’s Radiation Compliance Program oversees the safe use of radiation sources, including radioactive materials and radiation-producing machines, to minimize exposure risks to workers, the public, and the environment. Compliance is guided by Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC) Title 33 Part XV – Radiation Regulations, which establish standards for licensing, inspection, reporting, and enforcement. LDEQ conducts scheduled and unannounced inspections of licensed facilities and registered equipment to verify compliance with radiation safety requirements.
Inspection Activities
Inspections are a core responsibility of the Radiation Section and are conducted to ensure that all regulated facilities operate safely and in compliance with state and federal requirements. Inspection frequency is based on guidance from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), which recommends intervals according to license type, radiation risk level, and facility activity. These inspections help verify that radiation exposures remain as low as reasonably achievable and that equipment, procedures, and training meet required standards.
NORM (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material) Inspections
NORM inspections focus on industries where naturally occurring radioactive materials may become concentrated through industrial processes, particularly in the oil and gas sector. Inspectors visit sites such as pipe‑cleaning facilities, waste handling locations, storage yards, and decontamination operations. During these inspections, staff evaluate radiation surveys, worker protection measures, waste management practices, and compliance with state NORM regulations. These visits help ensure that NORM is handled, transported, and disposed of safely to protect workers and the environment.
X‑Ray and Mammography Inspections
LDEQ conducts X-ray inspections across a variety of settings, including hospitals, medical treatment centers, dental and veterinary clinics, chiropractic offices, and industrial facilities using X-ray equipment. Our inspectors carefully evaluate machine performance, operator training, shielding, and radiation safety procedures to ensure protection for patients and staff.
Mammography inspections are conducted under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Mammography Quality Standards Act and Program (MQSA). These inspections are designed to guarantee high-quality breast imaging and patient safety, confirming compliance with both state regulations and the federal Mammography Quality Standards Act (MQSA).
Incident Response
The Radiation Section responds to radiation‑related incidents to ensure that any potential exposure, equipment malfunction, or procedural failure is promptly evaluated and addressed. Incident investigations may involve industrial radiography crews, medical facilities, NORM operations, or any location where radiation‑producing devices or radioactive materials are used. Staff assess the circumstances of the event, verify that appropriate safety measures were followed, and determine whether corrective actions are needed to prevent recurrence. These evaluations often include reviewing radiation surveys, interviewing personnel, and examining equipment involved in the incident. The goal of incident response is to protect workers, the public, and the environment while maintaining transparency and regulatory accountability.
Reciprocity
Reciprocity inspections apply to out‑of‑state companies that are licensed elsewhere but temporarily conduct regulated radiation activities in Louisiana. Before beginning work, these companies must notify LDEQ and provide documentation demonstrating that their licenses meet equivalent safety and regulatory standards. Inspections are conducted at job sites such as industrial facilities, construction areas, refineries, and pipeline locations where temporary radiography or radioactive material use occurs. During these visits, inspectors verify that equipment is secure, certified personnel are present, and all safety procedures align with Louisiana’s requirements. Reciprocity inspections help ensure consistent oversight and safe operations, regardless of where a company is originally licensed.
Enforcement
Enforcement actions related to radiation safety are coordinated through LDEQ’s Enforcement Division, which is responsible for evaluating violations and determining the appropriate regulatory response. When an inspection or incident reveals non‑compliance, the Radiation Section documents the findings and refers the case to Enforcement for formal review. Some situations require dual reporting to the relevant federal agency—such as the NRC or FDA—depending on the type of incident and the regulatory authority involved. This ensures that all oversight bodies are informed and that corrective actions are consistent with both state and federal requirements. By working closely with Enforcement and federal partners, the Radiation Section helps maintain a strong and transparent compliance framework that protects workers, the public, and the environment.
Paula Lang
Radiology Manager
paula.lang@la.gov