[How safe are older x-ray generators]

An incident with a high-voltage generator more than 25 years old was the occasion for a discussion of the safety of such generators. A control timer broke down during the exposure period, and before the radiographer was able to react the X-ray tube imploded. The young patient suffered increased exposure and partial grade 3 burns. If such a breakdown occurs during exposure the radiographer has to turn off the generator by hand. This is the only way of preventing injury to the patient. Owners of such units must be aware of their particular responsibility and should train their personnel accordingly. In case of a breakdown only well-trained staff can act immediately, in the knowledge that only a few seconds are available before the patient suffers physical injuries. The fault mentioned should have been expected and it could happen again any time with such an old installation.