Pass Box in Radiology

A Pass Box, also known as a pass-through chamber or transfer hatch, is a secure, enclosed space built into a wall that connects two different areas, such as an X-ray room and a darkroom. Its primary purpose in film-based radiology was to safely transfer exposed and unexposed X-ray film cassettes between the light-filled X-ray room and the light-proof darkroom without compromising the film.

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Functions and Features

In the era of film-based radiography, the pass box was essential for workflow and safety. Here's how it worked:

• Minimizing Light Exposure: The pass box had two doors, one on each side. An interlocking mechanism ensured that only one door could be opened at a time. This prevented any outside light from entering the darkroom and "fogging," or damaging, the light-sensitive film.
• Divided Compartments: Many pass boxes had two separate compartments, often labeled "exposed" and "unexposed," to prevent technicians from mixing up the cassettes. The technologist would place an exposed cassette in one compartment from the X-ray room side, and a darkroom aide would retrieve it from the darkroom side.
• Radiation Shielding: To protect the film from stray radiation, especially if the pass box was in the wall shared with the X-ray room, these boxes were often lead-lined. ☢️
• Workflow Efficiency: Pass boxes streamlined the process, allowing for the quick and safe transfer of materials without staff having to repeatedly enter and exit the darkroom, which saved time and reduced the risk of contamination.

 Static Pass Box Specifications

Construction	Stainless Steel 304 Grade
Dimensions	300x300x300mm/450x450x450mm/600x600x600mm Or Customized
Door	With Electromagnetic Lock
Window	Fitted With Tempered Glass
Electricals	LED Light, UV Light, Electromagnet For Door Interlocking, Buzzer And Indicating Lamps
UV Lamp	Germicidal Activity
Power Supply	Work On 220 / 230 Volts AC

 

Dynamic Pass Box Specifications

Construction	Stainless Steel 304 Grade
Dimensions	300x300x300mm,450x450x450mm,600x600x600mm Or Customized
Door	With Electromagnetic Lock
Window	Fitted With Tempered Glass
Electricals	LED Light, UV Light, Electromagnet For Door Interlocking, Buzzer And Indicating Lamps
UV Lamp	Germicidal Activity
Hepa Filters	Having Efficiency Rating As High As 99.99% Thus Retaining All Air-Home Borne Particles Of Size 0.3 µ And Larger.
Accessory	Manometer / Magnahelic Gauge
Blower Motor	Standard
Power Supply	Work On 220 / 230 Volts AC