It is imperative to know the principles and practices of radiation protection before coming in contact with radioactive materials or radiation producing machines. The use of radioactive materials/radiation producing devices requires training and experience.

The Department of Risk Management & Health & Safety provides a course outline and the procedure to become an authorized user under FIU radioactive materials license. FIU researchers may be allowed to use radioactive materials only after they complete training and experience requirements and receive written authorization from the FIU Radiation Control Committee. The laboratory for the use of radioactive materials must also be authorized.

All applications for authorization and purchase of radioactive materials are processed through the FIU Radiation Safety Office. Radioactive materials are received at the Radiation Safety Office and delivered to the labs. Authorized users must maintain accurate inventories and current radiation survey records. All radioactive materials must be kept secure at all times.