Any podiatric facility that uses x-ray equipment to irradiate humans in Ontario is bound by the H.A.R.P. Act. The complete Act can be read by clicking here. Podiatric offices using x-rays need to appoint a radiation protection officer (clause 8), who is responsible for ensuring that the office is in compliance with the H.A.R.P. Act.

QC testing of podiatric x-ray machines needs to be done annually or upon alteration or servicing as spelled out in Table 4 of the Act. Varanidex provides this testing to many podiatrists in the province. We test the traditional x-ray units which produce lateral and dorsal-plantar projections. We also test the low-format c-arm type of fluoroscopes that are becoming more popular with Ontario podiatrists.

Two Different Testing Methods for annual testing!

Varanidex can deliver annual H.A.R.P. testing for podiatric x-ray machines in two different formats. We can use our long established mail technique, where we send a test pack and instructions to your office and you or your staff takes a single exposure and returns it to us in the regular mail or we can come to your office and perform the required testing on site. The mail testing is offered for $60 per test. This is considerably cheaper than an on-site visit, and has the added advantage of not having to schedule a visit.

Acceptance Testing for new machines

When new or used equipment is purchased, or equipment is moved, such as during a renovation, Acceptance Testing is required. These are somewhat more rigorous than the annual requirements and a site visit is required.

Digital radiography is slowly spreading across the province, supplanting the traditional film-based radiography. Offices using digital radiography do not need to perform the daily photographic quality control because the film and dark room are not being used. Humans are still being irradiated when using digital radiography so the other aspects of the H.A.R.P. Act, such as requirement for annual testing (or upon alteration or servicing) are still required.