Radiation Safety
ALARA
As Low As Reasonably Achievable
Ionizing radiation can cause both bodily and genetic damage. The effects of radiation may show immediately or be latent and not observed for a long period of time. The goal is to keep the risks as minimal as possible.
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TIME Use the shortest exposure time possible for a quality image. Plan your study ahead to limit the number of images needed. Refer to a custom technique chart for consistency and accuracy.
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DISTANCE
SHIELDING
Always stay as far away from the radiation source as possible. Even the smallest fraction of distance will dramatically reduce your exposure. Whenever possible use sandbags, positioning tools, or sedation. Always use the collimator to decrease scatter radiation.
Use lead aprons and thyroid shields every time you take radiographs. Lead gloves should be used to protect the hands from scatter radiation. Stand behind a wall if you do not need to be in the same room at the patient. Proper storage of aprons and gloves prolongs their life and effectiveness.
Dosimetry
A dosimeter radiation badge should be worn for every radiograph taken. The level of radiation each employee is exposed to will be recorded by the badge. Records of radiation exposure will be kept in the workplace or otherwise provided by the employer.
Pregnancy
The first three months of pregnancy are the most important as the embryo/fetus is most sensitive to radiation at that time. In most cases of occupational exposure, the actual dose received by the embryo/fetus is less than the dose received by the mother, because some of the dose is absorbed by the mother’s body. If you continue to take radiographs, a second dosimetry badge can be worn to monitor fetal exposure.
UNDER 18
Individuals under the age of 18 are at a greater risk of radiation injury because of their more rapidly reproducing cells. Therefore, they should never be allowed to perform or assist in performing radiographs. Any person not directly assisting with the x-ray should not be in the x-ray room at the time of exposure.
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