How to Perform a Misconnect Test: Safety Procedure for RSOs

The 30-second misconnect test is a mandatory safety procedure, required by radiation safety regulations, that verifies if your radiography equipment's failsafe mechanisms are functioning properly. This guide outlines the process for performing a misconnect test prior to exposure.

Why the Misconnect Test Matters

Over time, shared wear and tear across the drive cable, safety connectors, and lock assemblies can create a dangerous scenario. If your remote controls can engage with the projector without connecting to the source assembly, you risk initiating an exposure without being able to retrieve the source. That’s not just a failure; it’s a retrieval situation.

When to Perform a Misconnect Test

QSA Global’s official guidance requires that a misconnect test be performed:

• During quarterly and annual maintenance
• After reloading sealed sources into the source projector
• Any time new or different remote controls are paired with a source projector
• Before using any radiography system that hasn't been previously tested as a complete unit

Required Equipment

• A gamma-ray source projector (such as the 880 Series, 1075 SCARPro, or SENTRY Series)
• The remote control assembly that will be used during operations

How to Perform the Misconnect Test

⚠️ Warning: Only trained, authorized personnel should perform this test.

Prepare for Testing:

Position the remote control near the source projector. Do not connect the drive cable to the source assembly.

Attempt Connection:

Bump up the remote control collar and insert the connecting plug into the projector’s locking mechanism. DO NOT connect the drive cable to the source assembly.

Check for Rotation:

⚠️Warning: Never turn the selector ring beyond the LOCK position during testing. If you turn past the locked position without the drive cable connected to the source, you may lose control of the source assembly, creating a potentially dangerous retrieval situation.

Now, try to turn the selector ring from the CONNECT position toward the LOCK position.

• If you can rotate it: The system is excessively worn. The locking components have degraded to the point that the projector falsely accepts the connection.
• If you cannot rotate it: The locking system is functioning properly and safe for operation.

Understanding Component Wear

Repeated use causes wear to the parts that mate the remote controls to the source projector. Over time, you may see:

• Worn connector pins and pinholes
• Degraded fit between collar and projector body
• Retainer plate wear from contact during repeated coupling

If the wear is severe enough, the controls can appear to connect, even when they haven’t engaged the source assembly. That’s exactly what the misconnect test is designed to catch.

If the Misconnect Test Fails

1. Immediately remove the source projector from radiographic operations
2. Label it as out of service
3. Do not use the system again until it has been repaired and successfully retested
4. Contact a QSA Global service center for assistance

Conclusion

The misconnect test is a simple safety check that takes only 30 seconds to perform. By conducting this test, you ensure safe radiographic operations and help to prevent serious retrieval or exposure incidents.

Remember, at QSA Global, we're committed to your safety and success. Our equipment is designed with multiple safety features, but routine testing and inspections are critical to maintaining that protection over time.

Note: This guide focuses on basic misconnect test procedures only. Additional safety protocols, emergency procedures, and specific regulatory requirements may apply based on jurisdiction and facility requirements. Always consult your company's radiation safety procedures, applicable safety manuals, and current regulatory guidelines for complete requirements.