Radiation: registration of sources.

Registration of sources of ionizing radiation, including x-ray machines and radioactive material used in the healing professions, is required by legislation recently enacted in California. Registration will provide information concerning the type and location of sources of radiation, and will provide a basis for the evaluation of a need for additional radiation control and protection measures in the future. As the medical uses of radiation procedures constitute a major portion of the total radiation exposure to the total population, it becomes increasingly important that physicians develop a reasonable and knowledgeable concept of not only the obvious benefits but also the actual and potential hazards of radiation as used in medicine. Practical and effective measures to minimize patient exposure, based on professional knowledge, competence and experience, with profession-wide participation and support, will insure the effective integration of the medical uses of radiation in the California Atomic Energy Development and Radiation Protection Program.