Obtain a radiation permit. Contact your campus radiation safety officer for information on obtaining a permit.
Establish protocol for investigations, accidents, thefts, transfers, disposals and infractions. Implement policies for purchasing a product, receiving it, storing it, keeping inventory, using the material, taking emergency action, performing surveys and checks, disposing of material and training new personnel.
Set a budget for the program. Include justification to ensure its approval.
Obtain the necessary equipment, including highly accurate means of calibration, detection, monitoring and taking other measurements. Purchase safety gear.
Set up a means of keeping records of all radioactive materials and uses, personnel exposures, incoming shipments, inventory, leak tests and lab surveys, instrument calibrations, licenses, waste orders and all other documentation relevant to the lab or the materials.
Train your employees to handle radioactive material and follow laboratory protocol. Instate an authority to head off unsafe practices and to monitor the laboratory. Offer lectures or courses on radiation safety and prepare a safety manual.