RADIATION PROTECTION - SIMPLIFIED for radiology residents

SIMPLIFIED CONCEPT OF RADIATION PROTECTION FOR RADIOLOGY STUDENTS #Justification #Optimization #Dose reduction as low as reasonably achievable, #ALARA SHIELDING Interposing a material (concrete, lead) between the source and the exposed individual to reduce the exposure Larger the shielding thickness, lower the exposure rate For fixed x ray facilities most common materials are bricks, lead and concrete X-ray tube shielding Room shielding X-ray equipment room shielding Patient waiting room shielding Control room shielding Personnel shielding Patient shielding (of organs not under investigation) Primary radiation: radiation passes through the tube portal Leakage radiation: not absorbed by the X Ray tube housing shielding Scattered radiation: which has undergone a change in direction during passage through matter Primary barrier - provide protection against the primary radiations. e.g Wall or other area struck by primary beam 1/16 inch of lead extending from the floor to a minimum height of 7 feet. Secondary barrier - provide the protection against the stray radiation (scattered and leakage radiation) 1/32 inch of lead From top of primary barrier up to ceiling Lead aprons are shielding apparel recommended for the radiation workers. These are classified as a secondary barrier.