MR Users

All MR users are required to receive training on MR safety and policies prior to engaging in research at the CIS, and are required to review these policies annually.

There are three levels or categories of MR Users at the CIS:

MR User Levels

Level 1: MRI Peripheral Area User

This individual may enter the magnet room to assist a Level 3 MR operator. Level 1 investigators cannot operate the scanner. Level 1 investigators must have passed Safety Training, but they do not need experience operating the scanner. Researchers recruiting, scheduling, and pre-screening participant MR sessions are required to complete Level 1 training.

To become a Level 1 User, you are required to:

  • Review the material covered in this Magnetic Resonance Imaging Safety and Research Policies and Procedures Manual
  • Attend the CIS MR Safety Screening Class
  • Complete the Level 1 Safety written test
  • Complete refresher training and review on an annual basis

Level 2: Magnet Room User/ Apprentice Operator

This individual may enter the magnet room to assist setting up the equipment, and for instructing and positioning volunteers. A Level 2 investigator may only operate the MRI scanner under the supervision of Level 3 personnel.

To become a Level 2 User, you are required to:

  • Fulfill requirements for a Level 1 User
  • Complete 10 hours of documented MRI scan observation
  • Attend an MR scanner orientation session
  • Complete Level 2 Operation and Safety Practicum administered by the MR Physicist
  • Complete refresher training and review on an annual basis

Level 3: Magnet Room Operator

This individual has permission to independently run the MRI scanner. Level 3 investigators must have at least 30 hours of documented experience at Level 2, and then passed a Level 3 Operation and Safety Practicum administered by the MR Physicist. Level 3 operators are given full privileges to the facility and can come in whenever they have scheduled time for use of the facility. All MR technicians employed by the CIS are Level 3 Users.

To become a Level 3 User, you are required to:

  • Be certified at Level 2 with at least 30 hours of documented Level 2 scan hours
  • Complete Level 3 Operation and Safety Practicum
  • Complete refresher training and review on an annual basis

All MR operators should become familiar with the contents of this Magnetic Resonance Imaging Safety and Research Policies and Procedures Manual and use it for reference as needed. All CIS MRI Users will need to renew their safety training on an annual basis.

Visitor and Tour Group Access

Appropriately trained personnel must escort visitors who wish to tour the MRI Suite. Prior to entry into the console room, visitors must be briefed regarding hazards associated with the MRI. To protect the privacy of research participants and to limit the potential distractions for operators, tours should be conducted when the scanner is not in use, if possible. If a tour is conducted during a participant scan, the participant must be notified and give permission for the tour.

Research Participant Access

Research participants (and parents accompanying child participants) must be escorted throughout the MRI Suite at all times by a qualified Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 User and may never be left unattended in Zones 3 or 4.

Restricted Access for Ancillary Personnel

The MRI Suite is a restricted area. Housekeeping staff and maintenance personnel are not permitted to enter Zone 4. Trash is placed in the hallway outside the MRI Suite in Zone 2 for pickup. Light bulb changes, mopping, and other maintenance and housekeeping tasks are performed by the MR Technicians. Trained service contractors are escorted while conducting working in the suite.

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