This standard establishes the classification of certain radioactive self-luminous light sources according to radionuclide, type of source, activity and performance requirements. The standard does not attempt to establish design or safety standards, but leaves the design features to the judgment of the supplier and user, provided that the performance requirements are met.

This standard does not specify the luminance of the self-luminous light source; however, many of these sources are used for safety proposes. Therefore, the luminosity must be commensurate with the intended use of the source(s).

Note: Radioactive self-luminous light sources used in or on timepieces are not covered by this standard.

The objectives of this standard are to establish minimum prototype testing requirements for radioactive self-luminous light sources, to promote uniformity of marking such sources, and to establish minimum physical performance for such sources.

This standard is primarily directed toward assuring adequate containment of the radioactive material. Other factors, such as quality control, external radiation levels, radiotoxicity of the radionuclide, its chemical and physical form, and quantity of radioactive material in the source, also shall require consideration in view of the ever present objective of keeping exposures as low as is reasonably achievable (ALARA). Compliance with this standard does not necessarily satisfy all requirements for manufacture and use which may be imposed by governmental regulatory agencies.