Limiting Radiation Exposure Reducing radiological exposure in healthcare settings is important for both occupational workers as well as patients. The following guidelines are based on the radiation safety principles of time, distance, and shielding. By following these guidelines, you can reduce your occupational exposure to radiation. Note: This information included in this post is intended for general reference information only. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice.

1. Occupational Radiation Exposure
5 Ways To Minimize Your Dose

2. #1 - Limit Exposure Time
Time is one of the three basic safety
measures to reduce external radiation
exposure.
● Reducing time of exposure reduces the
effective dose proportionally
● Minimize time near radiation sources

3. #2 - Notify Healthcare Personnel
Radiation equipment operator
○ Must notify healthcare personnel prior to activation
of radiation producing equipment (RPE).
○ Any piece of equipment in which x-rays are produced
electrically are classified as (RPE).
● Radiation Producing Equipment Applications
○ Radiography
○ Mammography
○ Computed Tomography (CT)

4. #3 - Fluoroscopic Procedures
Healthcare personnel performing fluoroscopic
procedures must ensure patient is kept as close
as possible to image intensifier.
● Keep patient away from tube side of unit
● Reduce radiation exposure by standing on the
image intensifier side of the fluoroscopic unit
(whenever possible)

5. #4 - Avoid Direct Beam Exposure
Healthcare personnel must avoid holding the
patient manually during a radiographic study due
to the risk of direct beam exposure
○ Any individual holding or supporting a person during
radiation exposure should wear protective gloves and
aprons (min 0.25 mm Pb equivalent)
○ Keep all body parts out of the direct x-ray beam

6. #5 - Utilize Shielding
Appropriate radiation shielding should be used
● Walls, windows, control booths, and doors
● Mobile rigid shields on wheels
● Flexible aprons, vests, and skirts
● Thyroid collars and shields
● Leaded safety eye glasses with side shields
● Lead gloves

7. Questions? Comments?
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