What is a Permit?

The term “Permit” means “Radiation Source” Use Permit. It is also sometimes called the radioactive material Permit, x-ray equipment Permit, nuclear gauge Permit, or other similar variation, according to the scope of a particular Permit.

The Radiation Safety Division issues Permits, directly, to USDA employees, in any USDA agency. The Permit authorizes a USDA employee to possess and use radioactive materials or x-ray producing equipment at USDA locations. Only USDA employees will be issued a Permit. USDA employees located at universities may fall under the licensing procedures of the University and should contact the Radiation Safety Division for guidance.

The Permit enables the Radiation Safety Division to maintain control of unsealed radioactive material inventories, radioactive sealed sources, and x-ray equipment by tracking isotope possession limits, as well as sealed source and x-ray source inventories, including acquisition, transfer, and disposal activities. The control of all radioactive materials (even some radioactive materials exempt from licensing) is required.

The Permit is maintained in a computer data-base. It can be displayed on the computer, stored as a PDF file, or printed as a paper certificate. Once approved, the Permit Holder is allowed access to the Permit data-base.

A Permit operates for 5 years, until it reaches its expiration date. When that date is reached, the Permit must be renewed for another 5 years, or terminated. A Permit cannot be allowed to lapse when the expiration date has passed. The Radiation Safety Division will provide assistance with renewal or termination of the Permit.