Procurement Permission is a mandatory regulatory step required before acquiring diagnostic X-ray equipment. This permission, granted by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), ensures that all equipment being procured meets established safety and quality standards. Here is an overview of the procurement permission process:

1. Purpose:
   • To ensure that any new or pre-owned X-ray equipment meets AERB’s safety and regulatory standards.
   • To verify that the equipment is sourced from authorized suppliers who comply with radiation safety requirements.
2. Types of Procurement:
   • New Equipment: Permission for procuring brand new X-ray machines.
   • Pre-Owned Equipment: Approval for acquiring used or second-hand X-ray equipment that still complies with the necessary safety standards.
3. Steps to Obtain Procurement Permission:
   • Step 1: Register the Institute in the e-LORA system if not already registered.
   • Step 2: Submit the Procurement Application 
   • Fill out the required details regarding the equipment, supplier, and installation location.
   • Step 3: Shielding Requirements:
     • The application must include details of the shielding and layout of the room where the equipment will be installed to ensure adequate radiation protection.
     • Plans must meet AERB standards for wall, ceiling, and floor shielding, ensuring minimal radiation exposure to workers and the public.
   • Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents:
     • A layout plan, signed and stamped by an authorized person, showing the shielding measures must be submitted.
4. Conditions for Approval of Procurement Permission:
   • The equipment must be type-approved by AERB.
   • The supplier must be an authorized entity, and the equipment should not exceed specified age limits if it is pre-owned.
5. Approval Outcome:
   • Once approved, the facility receives Procurement Permission, which allows them to proceed with buying the equipment.
   • After procurement, the facility must also follow subsequent steps, such as installation, QA, and application for License for Operation.
6. Importance:
   • This process helps maintain the quality and safety of diagnostic radiology services.
   • Ensures that only compliant and safe X-ray machines are used in healthcare facilities, thereby protecting both the staff and patients from unnecessary radiation exposure.

Procurement Permission is a critical regulatory measure that ensures the safe acquisition of diagnostic radiology equipment and the fulfillment of radiation safety standards.