Dangers in magnet halls

The magnet halls are potentially dangerous environments, with high magnetic fields, high voltages and extremely cold gases all being potential risks to your safety.

Most importantly, close to the large magnets, loose magnetic objects may experience a strong pull and become projectiles. Laboratories containing strong magnetic fields are clearly marked by signs at all entrances. Small test magnets are provided in each entrance lobby. If an object sticks to the test magnet it should be LEFT OUTSIDE the laboratory. The following instructions apply for access to such areas:-

• The magnets are never switched off; precautions must therefore be taken at ALL TIMES.
• People with heart pacemakers or surgical implants (including brain clips) made of magnetic material MUST NOT ENTER.
• Inside the laboratories, non-magnetic tools and equipment should be used whenever possible. Where this is not possible a concession should be obtained from a senior member of staff, which will set out the conditions for its safe use.
• If magnetic objects must be taken into a magnet hall, a concession must be obtained from a senior member of staff, which will set out the conditions for its safe use.
• Any magnetic object that might inadvertently be taken in the magnet hall should have a sticker on it.
• Emergency resuscitation trolley equipment is available in the p3T magnet hall. ASSUME ALL EQUIPMENT ON THIS TROLLEY IS MAGNETIC.
• Doors with security locks and fire doors must not be wedged open.
• Never enter a magnet hall unecessarilty when a volunteer is in the magnet unless directly involved in the scanning.
• Outside, all footpaths and door accessible by footpath are safe. Doors not accessible by footpath should be treated as if they are inside the laboratory ie. the above applies.
• The following objects could cause injury if released in the magnetic field:
  • MAGNETIC FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
  • CRASH TROLLEYS
  • Scissors and small tools
  • Pocket Knives
  • Keys
  • Trolleys
  • Gas Cylinders
  • Coins
  • Vacuum cleaners, Polishing machines
  • Metal spray cans and containers
  • Mop-buckets and metal-headed swabs
  • Steel toecapped boots
• The following objects may be damaged by the magnetic field:
  • Mobile phones and bleeps
  • Credit cards
  • Watches
  • Cameras