opened, it should be used as soon as possible. If unexposed boxes of x-ray film must
be stored in refrigerators, the refrigerators should contain nothing else and some kind of
1-14. SAFEGUARDS AGAINST LIGHT FOG
Any form of white light creeping into a processing room through cracks around
the edges of partitions or doors may fog x-ray film, casting a dark veil over it. Only that
light from a properly constructed safelight equipped with a filter that is compatible with
the screen/film system that is being permitted to fall on the film during its handling, but
even this light may fog film if permitted to shine on a particular area too long. No film
should be exposed to the safe light for longer than it takes to unload a film and place it
in the automatic processor.
1-15. PRECAUTIONS AGAINST STATIC DISCHARGES
In the manufacture and packaging of x-ray film, every precaution is taken to
avoid the accumulation of static electricity is removed so that static charges have no
opportunity to accumulate on the film and lead to static marks on the finished
radiograph. The film is coated and dried in a dust-free atmosphere and at an optimum
and constant temperature and humidity, all calculated to hold static electricity to a
minimum. A static electricity discharge emits visible light capable of sensitizing the film.
The resulting artifacts assume various shapes. They are usually tree-like with finger-
like processes emanating outward from the point of discharge, which always has the
greatest density. Often static marks assume the character of black smudges.
Discharges are most likely to occur in cold, dry period and it is then that particular care
must be taken to handle film carefully and to avoid friction on its surface. The loading
bench in the processing room should be grounded so that any static charges will be
dissipated before the cassette is opened.
1-16. LOADING AND UNLOADING THE CARDBOARD FILM HOLDER
In today's modern radiology clinic, generally the cardboard film holder will not be
utilized. There may be situations when the radiographer may encounter the use of the
cardboard, and should have the knowledge of the proper loading and unloading
technique.
a. The cardboard film holder consists of two pieces of radiotransparent
paperboard held together with heavy cloth. A metal clip is attached to one cover and
laminated to the inside of the cover is a thin lead foil lining.
b. In loading, the film with the paper around it is placed in the open holder, the
large flap of the envelope is turned down, and then the side flaps are brought together
and clipped.
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