Safety Interlocks, Calibration & Preventive Maintenance

Syllabus

# LIN 120 - Safety Interlocks, Calibration & Preventive Maintenance

**Credits:** 3

**Term:** 3

## Course Description
This course provides essential training for biomedical equipment service technicians specializing in linear accelerators. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of safety interlock systems, including their design, function, and troubleshooting, with a focus on door and beam-off circuits. The curriculum covers the principles and practical aspects of supporting dosimetry calibration processes, ensuring accurate and safe radiation delivery. Emphasis is placed on developing proficiency in performing routine preventive maintenance procedures, adhering to manufacturer specifications and industry best practices. Additionally, students will learn to accurately complete and interpret machine logs, a critical component of regulatory compliance and equipment history tracking. This course combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, preparing technicians for critical service tasks.

## Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
*   Identify and explain the function of various safety interlock components within a linear accelerator system.
*   Analyze and troubleshoot common faults in door and beam-off interlock chains using systematic diagnostic methods.
*   Describe the role of a service technician in supporting and verifying dosimetry calibration procedures.
*   Execute vendor-neutral preventive maintenance tasks on linear accelerator subsystems according to established protocols.
*   Accurately complete and interpret machine log entries, including service reports and maintenance records.
*   Apply safety protocols and best practices during all service and maintenance activities on linear accelerators.

## Topics by Week
*   **Week 1:** Introduction to Linear Accelerator Safety Systems
*   **Week 2:** Interlock Chain Fundamentals and Component Identification
*   **Week 3:** Door Interlock Circuits: Design and Operation
*   **Week 4:** Beam-Off Interlock Circuits: Design and Operation
*   **Week 5:** Troubleshooting Interlock Failures
*   **Week 6:** Introduction to Dosimetry and Calibration Support
*   **Week 7:** Calibration Support Procedures: Data Acquisition and Verification
*   **Week 8:** Preventive Maintenance: Principles and Planning
*   **Week 9:** PM Procedures: Mechanical Systems
*   **Week 10:** PM Procedures: Electrical and Electronic Systems
*   **Week 11:** Machine Log Documentation and Regulatory Compliance
*   **Week 12:** Advanced Troubleshooting and Best Practices
*   **Week 13:** Midterm Review
*   **Week 14:** Final Exam Review

## Grading
*   Knowledge Checks: 15%
*   Assignments and Labs: 30%
*   Quizzes: 25%
*   Final Exam: 30%

## Policies
*   **Attendance:** Regular attendance and active participation are expected. Students are responsible for all material covered in class, regardless of attendance.
*   **Late Submissions:** Assignments submitted after the due date will incur a penalty of 10% per day, up to a maximum of 50%, unless prior arrangements have been made with the instructor.
*   **Academic Integrity:** All work submitted must be original. Plagiarism or any form of academic dishonesty will result in a failing grade for the assignment and may lead to further disciplinary action.
*   **Safety:** All lab activities require strict adherence to safety protocols. Failure to follow safety instructions will result in immediate removal from the lab and a failing grade for the activity.
*   **Communication:** Students are encouraged to communicate with the instructor regarding any questions or concerns. Use official institute communication channels for all correspondence.