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Basic Considerations of
Radiation Safety and Barrier Protection
Clearly, when x-rays first came into use, there were many injuries and even deaths
due to radiation exposure. Once it was determined that the amount of radiation involved
in x-rays could be controlled, they became much safer procedures. Today, radiation
protection is an integral component of any radiology department. The main principles
of radiation protection are to provide adequate protection from undue exposure of
radiation to personnel directly or indirectly involved with radiation, without unduly
limiting the benefits of radiation exposure. Regular ongoing educational programs
and reviews form a necessary part of the responsibilities of healthcare institutions.
The application of simple radiation rules will allow healthcare professionals to
minimize exposure as much as possible. Applying such rules may also help to improve
the protection of other medical staff that are less familiar with radiation protection
protocols.
Prudence dictates that anyone using or operating x-ray equipment be trained in its
safe and proper operation, and operators should know the biological hazards associated
with its use. Should there be any questions regarding personal protection, safety
of a particular fluoroscopic suite, x-ray equipment, or how to obtain additional
information, a medical physicist or Radiation Safety Officer should be consulted.
Also, the reader may find useful a comprehensive and detailed text by Wagner and
Archer that further expands upon the information provided in this study guide.21
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