MRI Safety - New Dual Beam TechGate Auto - Raising the Bar

The recently promulgated ACR White Paper on MRI Safety 2020 embody the consensus recommendations for MRI best safe practices and form the foundation for individual, site – specific protocol establishment. As these recommendations have been established by an esteemed committee of MRI safety professionals and create a framework of guidance for ACR accreditation, the consistent application of these recommendations by the industry have coalesced into a widely recognized and accepted standard of care. The recommendations include several provisions related to screening individuals entering the MRI area and, more specifically, the application of Ferromagnetic Detection Systems and warning signage. These provisions essentially recommend the use of detection devices that can differentiate between ferrous and non-ferrous objects and the recommend utilizing these devices for screening prior to individuals entering Zone 3 (as outlined below in the MRI Functional Diagram from the guidance document).  Additionally, the ACR committee recommends adoption of a “timeout” protocol prior to anyone entering Zone 4 and the utilization of “caution barriers” and illuminated warning signage that the “magnet is always on.” Utilization of the TechGate Auto Caution Barrier solution addresses all these Zone 4 access control recommendations. Below are the pertinent sections referenced in the 2020 ACR MR Safety Manual along with page references. The full Safety Manual can be accessed via the web link below.