CBBI Safety
Safety is our number one priority. Research involving Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has the potential for serious injury due to the size and strength of the magnetic field it emits which is always present. We invite you to become familiar with our safety policies and procedures outlined below.
Anyone planning to enter the magnet room MUST complete the MRI Safety Screening Form before participating in a study. Click here >
RESTRICTED ACCESS POLICY
Research involving Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at high magnetic field strengths present unique hazards to both research subjects and individuals working within and around the MRI system. Consequently, the potential for serious personal injury is present due to the sheer size and strength of the static magnetic field
The static magnetic fields of the MRI scanners in the facility are always present. It is important that all those entering the facility be aware of the presence of the field, as it cannot be detected by human senses, i.e. magnetic fields cannot be felt, seen or smelled. Ferromagnetic objects brought into the magnet room could quickly become dangerous projectiles, and the magnetic field can also interfere with the operation of certain medical implants such as pacemakers.
All study team members must have a completed screening form on file before entering the MRI room. Study participants must complete a screening form before every appointment. Click here >
MR Clothing Guidelines
Any individual undergoing an MR procedure must remove all readily removable metallic personal belongings…, and clothing items which may contain metallic fasteners, hooks, zippers, loose metallic components or metallic threads.
It is vital that you remove metallic objects in advance of an MRI exam, including watches, jewelry, and items of clothing that have metallic threads or fasteners.
Approved Clothing
- Scrubs (made available)
- Loose fitting cotton or linen clothing
Clothing materials that are NOT recommended:
- Any compression wear
- Tight fitting spandex clothing
- Clothing with unusual metal embellishments
- Thermal pajamas
- Thermal blankets and bedding
Prohibited clothing brands
- Athleta
- Columbia Omniheat
- Lululemon
- Tommy Copper
Reported MRI incidents related to inappropriate attire
With proper screening and preparation, an MRI is perfectly safe. However, unapproved attire within the scanner can cause serious harm.
We report a case of a thermal burn that occurred during MR imaging likely caused by invisible silver-embedded microfibers in the fabric of an undershirt. As the prevalence of fabric containing non-detectable metallic microfiber increases in athletic and “tech” clothing, the importance of having patients change into safe facility-provided garments before MR imaging is emphasized.
If there are any questions or concerns regrading any of these procedures
The Four MRI Safety Zones
Due to the powerful magnetic field used by the MRI Scanner, many Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) facilities and hospitals restrict access to the MR Suite by establishing four conceptual zones around the MRI scanner. Each boundary zone in this four-zone safety system is defined by its purpose and distance from the MRI scanner. Since the magnetic field extends in three dimensions, some zones may extend into other areas or floors of the facility.
UD CBBI Facility ACR Zone Guidelines
Zone One consists of all areas freely accessible to the general public. This zone includes the entrance to the MR facility and the magnet poses no hazards in these areas. Indicated in Blue.
Zone Two acts as a buffer between Zone One and the more restrictive Zone Three. Here, patients are under the general supervision of MR personnel. Normally, these areas are also safe from the powerful magnet. Indicated in Green.
Zone Three access is restricted by a physical barrier and security access. Only approved MR personnel and patients that have undergone a medical questionnaire and interview are allowed inside Zone Three. Indicated in Yellow.
Zone Four is within the walls of the MR scanner room. Entry is restricted and all those who plan to enter MUST complete a “Magnetic Resonance Safety Screening Form” and have it reviewed and approved. Indicated in Red.
Zone Four is referred to as the MR Suite. Inside the MR Suite is an invisible boundary defined by the magnetic field’s five Gauss line. The five Gauss line is the point at which the magnetic field begins to affect electromagnetic devices, such as pacemakers. Because the magnetic field extends in all directions, the five Gauss line can also extend to areas outside of the MR Suite, including other floors, if the magnetic field is large enough. Magnetic fields cannot be seen or felt, so the five Gauss line is sometimes marked on floors or walls for safety. Marking the five Gauss line is particularly important when it extends beyond the walls of the MR scanner room.
ASSISTANCE
Keith Schneider
Director, CBBI
Professor, Psychological & Brain Sciences
Phone: (302)-831-7148
Trevor Wigal
Manager, CBBI
Phone: 302-831-1463
Xingju Nie
MRI Physicist
Phone: 302-831-0648
Ibrahim Malik
Research Associate
Phone: 302-831-0910
Sarah Whitman
Research Associate
Phone: 302-831-0910
HOURS OF OPERATION
The University of Delaware Research Office is open daily Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.– 5 p.m. The Research Office is closed Saturday and Sunday and observes all University closings and holidays. See the Academic Calendar for more information.
If you have an emergency during non-business hours, please call Public Safety at 302-831-2222.
If your question does not require immediate attention, please e-mail CBBI.