Medical College of Wisconsin Instructions for Radioactive Materials Use Application (Non-Human Research Only)

A. Applicant Information – It is vitally important that ORS be able to correspond with each user throughout the duration of a project. The preferred method of communication is through MCW email. Please fill out the application fully.

B. Training – Complete the Radioactive Materials Training and Experience form that comprises pages 6 and 7 of this form.
MCW Training and Experience Requirements for Authorized Users. (PDF)

C. Participating Personnel – All persons (techs, students, post-docs, etc.) who will handle radioactive materials in the laboratory must be listed on the authorization. All staff and students who will handle radioactive materials directly must be trained by Radiation Safety. Additional training must be provided by the Authorized User; all training must be documented on the Radiation Worker Training Form (provided by radiation safety).
More information on Radiation Worker training. (PDF)

A. List all isotopes to utilized in the protocols presented in this application. Example:

More information on isotope licensing, purchase and transfer (PDF)

B. Purpose – Give a simple description of the intended use of radioisotopes, such as “tracer studies to determine uptake of ‘Type A’ chemical in ‘Type B’ cells.”

C. Handling Protocol – Give a detailed description of how the isotope will be handled and what chemistry, if any, will occur. Example:

1. Pipette 10 μCi isotope into 500 ml solution and mix thoroughly.
2. Pipette 1 ml solution per tube.
3. Add cell solution.
4. Incubate for 2 days.
5. Centrifuge tubes.
6. Pour off excess liquid into radioactive liquid waste container.
7. Prepare tubes for analysis.
8. Following analysis, discard cell culture into radioactive liquid waste.

D. Subsidiary Hazards – Some isotope procedures are more inherently hazardous than others. The process of iodination, for example, can release vapors with radioiodine, and must be performed in a controlled environment. In general, the use of pre-labeled compounds avoids most of these complications, and is considered to be a “simple, wet operation”. Compounds that must be labeled with radioisotopes are typical of “normal” chemical operations, but may have associated hazards. Carefully research the processes to be performed and list any potential hazards. More information on radioisotope hazard classification (PDF)

E. Animal Use – For users who will be working with live animals, list all animals involved. ORS must make arrangements with the BRC to accommodate these needs. More information on specific animal/radioactivity requirements (PDF)

Using the check boxes (and alternate descriptions when applicable), describe the radioactive waste that will be generated and handled in the lab.

More information on radioactive waste handling requirements (PDF)

Using the check boxes (and alternate descriptions when applicable), describe the lab facilities and equipment that will be utilized.

More information on radioactive work areas and laboratories (PDF)

Using the check boxes (and alternate descriptions when applicable), describe the personal protective equipment and procedures that will be utilized.

More information on contamination survey and monitoring requirements (PDF)

No application will be accepted without appropriate signatures.

Finally, submit the signed application to the Radiation Safety Office. The review process is as follows:

1. Preliminary review by the Radiation Safety Office;
2. Detailed review by three basic science research faculty members of the RSC;
3. Review and signoff by a quorum of RSC members;
4. Radiation Safety will contact you to set up the lab, as necessary.

All applications are expedited. Any questions or clarifications required by the RSC may be answered by email; the text of which will be added to the application.

If you have any questions, contact ORS.