How often should the X-ray unit be inspected and calibrated?

• A. Annually
• B. Monthly
• C. Weekly
• D. Daily

Answer: (A)

Regular quality control for X-ray units relies on periodic calibration to keep the dose delivered and the image quality consistent. Full inspection and calibration are typically performed once a year because a trained service person can verify and adjust the major performance parameters that can drift over time—kilovoltage accuracy (beam energy), timer accuracy (exposure duration), exposure reproducibility and linearity (mA and time), and beam alignment and filtration. An annual check also confirms that the system’s output remains within acceptable safety margins and that measurements correspond to the technique chart used clinically. Daily constancy checks and safety inspections are important for catching obvious problems and ensuring the unit is operating at all, but they do not substitute for a comprehensive annual calibration. If symptoms arise or regulatory guidance dictates, servicing should occur sooner, but the standard practice is to schedule a full calibration on a yearly cycle.