How Can We Help?
Getting Ready for the Inspection
INSPECTION
Radiation measurement, detection, imaging QA, staff and patient safety .
"We understand patient care is the top priority and keep interruption to a minimum."
Inspections, or site surveys, must be undertaken by owners of x-ray equipment at regular intervals. As determined by WorksafeBC, dental and veterinary practices x-ray machines that operate at or below 70kVp may be inspected very 5 years. Devices operating above 70kVp must be inspected every 3 years.
The
British Columbia College of Oral Health Professionals (BCCOHP) outlines this frequency for dental practices on their
December 19, 2025 news update
Health Canada also specifies that prior to patient use, inspections are required :
- if new equipment is installed,
- after x-ray machines have been relocated,
- after major repairs that alter energy output potential ie: tube replacement,
- after environmental damage (such as flood or fire), or
- if there is indication of an unusually high exposure of a worker to ionizing radiation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How long do inspections take?
Inspection times vary according to the number of devices but generally take less than an hour. Our investment in technology and years of experience moving around busy offices make this process very quick.
Can I still see patients?
Yes. We are very experienced at working around patients.
What do I need to prepare?
In most cases you do not have to prepare anything but do expect to answer a few questions while the safety officer is on-site. If you have been monitoring staff exposure, please have any recent dosimetry reports available for review. If your practice has a CBCT the shielding plan will be requested.
Do I need to have all my x-rays inspected?
Regulatory requirements apply to all devices that emit radiation. If your x-ray machine cannot be powered on, it cannot produce radiation and is exempt.
What happens if my x-ray machine fails?
X-ray machines primarily fail for either mechanical or practice layout issues. In most cases workflow continues while compliance is reached, however in rare instances the safety officer will place a machine out of order effective immediately. The most severe mechanical fail is oil leaking from a tube head. Never use an x-ray that is leaking oil! Oil around the tube insulates, absorbs and distrubutes heat during the creation of x-rays and without it the head can explode.
When does new equipment need to be inspected?
Prior to patient use; however, this can be challenging due to availability of inspectors and rural or remote locations. XRAA.org has published a schedule for interim certiication on new equipment that has passed acceptance testing by a qualified individual.
CERTIFICATION
Certifying BC dental and veterinary practices meet or exceed regulatory requirements.
"Committed to solid standards of excellence in both x-ray safety and quality assurance."
We are proud to to be approved inspection agency member of XRAA Registration and Accreditation Association, able to offer their certification to our dental practitioners. XRAA inspector approval and oversight means recipients can be assured
- of the highest inspection standards,
- regulatory requirements have been met and
- their inspection records are stored safely and securely should they ever have need.
REGULATIONS
Assistance with facility construction or new x-ray equipment installation.
"Let's keep focused on what's important, patient care."
The provincial regulatory environment can be overwhelming and confusing. We're here to help. Check if the FAQs answer your questions and if not, you're always welcome to reach out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a handheld x-ray device in my practice?
The short answer is yes, although Health Canada is specific on special use scenarios and recommendations. See our Resources for Handheld X-ray devices (coming soon).
Do I still need to use protective lead or equivalent aprons in dentistry?
An intact apron and thyroid collar is required to be available but use is conditional. Patient recommendations from Health Canada are outlined in our Resource section (coming soon). Any persons assisting patients should always wear aprons and thyroid collars.
When do I need a dosimeter badge?
In veterinary x-ray technologists are required to wear a badge under PPE. Dental practitioners qualified to operate CBCT or handheld x-ray devices must monitor personal exposure with a badge for 12 months. See detailed information in our Resources section (coming soon).
What's required for a new CBCT?
The room or space designated for the CBCT needs special consideration. A radiation shielding plan must be designed by a qualified individual, usually Qualified Medical Physicist (QMP). Contractors will follow their specifications to build the space which, upon completion, will be signed off by the designer. A radiation protection inspection is required for the CBCT prior to patient use.
