Magnetic Resonance Imaging Safety

Magnetic resonance (MR) safety is of utmost importance. Applicants must be aware of the potential dangers of implants or foreign bodies. See information below. Any contraindication of the MR environment may eliminate an applicant’s eligibility from program admission. 

The following may prevent an applicant from program admission:

  • Contraindicated biomedical devices, implants, and materials (e.g., pacemaker).
  • Ferromagnetic contraindicated biomedical devices, implants, and materials (e.g., aneurysm clip).
  • Accidental ferromagnetic implanted objects and/or material (e.g., shrapnel in eyes, skin).
  • Contraindicated devices assisting in routine tasks (e.g., hearing aids). 
  • Phobias that would not allow them to perform routine tasks and care in the healthcare environment. 

Enrolled students will be educated on MR safety prior to the beginning of their clinical rotations. Magnetic resonance program students are required to follow MR safety policies and procedures. It is the student's responsibility to inform the program faculty of any changes that would affect their safety around MR.

Biological Risks

There are no known biological risks associated with magnetic field or radiofrequency exposure to individuals who work in close proximity to MR systems.

Projectile Effect

MR machines generate a very strong magnetic field within and surrounding the MR scanner. The static magnetic field of the MR machine is never turned off, requiring the areas close to the scanner be secured at all times. Ferromagnetic objects (e.g., paper clips and hairpins) carried into the scanner room can become projectiles that may cause serious injury, death, or equipment failure. All individuals must be screened prior to entering the MR environment.

Brown University Health School of Medical Imaging students are required to complete a screening form. MR student acceptance is conditional on the student meeting the MR safety requirements. 

This policy is based on the American College of Radiology (ACR) Guidance Document on MR Safe Practices: 2013

School of Medical Imaging