HPS N43.14:2011 (R2016)

This standard applies to non-intrusive inspection (NII) systems using active interrogation methods for the detection of contraband (drugs, explosives, and weapons of mass destruction [WMD]). Highenergy neutrons have been used for such purposes but other methods are being developed that use high-energy photons as well. In particular, this standard covers the safety aspects of active interrogation systems, henceforth called 'systems,' using, but not limited to, high-energy x-rays (bremsstrahlung) produced by high-energy electron linear accelerators, high-energy neutrons produced by the (d,d) and (d,T) reactions, fission neutrons from 252Cf, highenergy neutrons produced by (?,n) reaction in linear accelerators using Be/W targets, or other accelerator methods for producing high-energy photons and neutrons. (In this standard, the term high-energy photons is used to mean high-energy x-rays and gamma rays in the MeV range of energies.)
The maximum energy of the ionizing radiation used for interrogation by these systems is limited to 100 MeV because the use of general-purpose active interrogation systems employing energies greater than this level is not expected in the foreseeable future.
This standard does not apply to conventional security imaging systems using x-rays and gamma rays. However, it includes hybrid systems combining active interrogation systems with conventional security imaging systems. In that case, a hybrid system capable of doing both functions shall meet the standards of both types of systems.
This standard does not apply to general safety involving mechanical failure, electrical shock, chemical explosion, gases under pressure, and noxious gases. It also does not apply to possible damaging effects of ionizing radiation to foods, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, photographic films and papers, and microelectronic devices containing computer chips.