A snapshot of occupational radiation dose in veterinary radiology

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of the study was to investigate the occupational radiation dose for medical workers in the equine hospital and to compare it with the national and international recommended limits. MethodsA retrospective study analysed the occupational dose record for the years 2015 and 2016. The study included all workers (physicians, radiological technologists, and grooms) who are potentially exposed to radiation during routine work. ResultsTotal of 112 TLD readings were analysed. The annual average effective dose was 0.77 mSv for all workers. The highest annual effective dose was 2.23 mSv. Individual doses were below the recommended limit by the ICRP, but grooms and radiological technologists received higher annual effective doses compared to doctors. ConclusionIt is crucial to promote radiation awareness among veterinary workers. Particular attention should be directed to the protection of radiological technologists and grooms, who were the most exposed worker group. The study recommends the utilization of ALARA principle and radiation protection guidelines to reduce radiation dose to radiological technologists and grooms.