FAQ – Bone Densitometry

The following information is relevant for persons who own or operate bone densitometry equipment. There are currently two types of device available in Western Australia; pencil beam bone densitometry, and fan beam bone densitometry.

Who can possess bone densitometry equipment and be responsible for the direction and supervision of the staff operating it?: In the case of fan beam bone densitometry, only persons holding a bone densitometry licence. For pencil beam bone densitometry, only medical practitioners holding an exemption from licence (i.e. currently no fee.)  For ‘wrist only’ pencil beam bone densitometers, persons (including non-medical personnel) that hold an exemption from licence. To apply for an exemption from licence, the following application form is available from the Radiological Council.

Who can operate bone densitometry equipment?: Fan beam densitometers can only be operated by persons holding a bone densitometry licence and diagnostic radiographers. Pencil beam bone densitometers can only be operated by persons (including non-medical personnel) who have completed an approved radiation safety course and diagnostic radiographers (who are still advised to complete the course.)

Does bone densitometry equipment require registration under the Radiation Safety Act?: Fan beam units, like other x-ray equipment, require the premises itself and each unit to be registered. Pencil beam units require an exemption from registration (i.e. currently no fee.)  To apply for an exemption from registration, the following application form is available from the Radiological Council.

I am setting up a new practice containing bone densitometry equipment; what do I need to do?: Send us a completed and signed application form; correct fee (if fan beam unit); plans of each x-ray installation for assessment; ensure you (and your staff if applicable) have a licence (or exemption from licence); and for fan beam units, provide all staff that may be occupationally exposed to radiation with personal radiation monitors (PRM.) A list of providers is available from the Radiological Council.

I have purchased an existing practice containing bone densitometry equipment; what do I need to do?: As above, except that you may not have to submit plans of the installations - if we have up to date plans of the installations on file. We require a letter from the previous owner notifying us of the sale.

Do I have to notify the Radiological Council if anything changes?: You need to do so in writing if you obtain a new x-ray unit (plans may also be required); dispose of an old x-ray unit; move a unit to another room (plans also required); change postal address or premises location (plans also required); change PRM provider; or propose a change in the designated Radiation Safety Officer (RSO.)

Who can work on my equipment?: Only licensed service persons can repair, install and dispose of x-ray equipment. A list of licensees is also available by contacting the Radiological Council.

How can I quickly check my basic legal requirements?: You are required, unless exempted in writing, to comply with all relevant aspects of the Radiation Safety Act and the Radiation Safety (General) Regulations. When your registration or licence is sent to you, there will usually be a set of conditions attached of which you should be aware. For Bone Densitometry refer to Registration Conditions 94, 134 and Licence Conditions 95, 152 as appropriate. In addition more specific conditions may be applied.

If further information is required, please contact a Radiological Council officer on 9346 2260.