Influence of storage conditions and usage time on the quality of lead rubber

Abstract

Lead aprons, as a type of individual radiological shields, are designed to protect the body against the negative effects of ionizing radiation. In order for the individual shields to fulfill their task, the weakening of the X-ray beam should be as high as possible. Previous reports have indicated the possibility of significant defects even among newly purchased aprons. The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of storage conditions and usage time on the permeability of lead aprons. The analysis covered 11 lead aprons used by the staff and patients of the Department of Radiodiagnostics and Interventional Radiology of the Central Clinical Hospital in Katowice, Poland. The dependent variable was the average pixel value, and the grouping variables included the storage method, age and thickness of the apron, and the type of its user. Statistically significant differences were found between the weakening value of the X-ray beam of individual aprons, and their storage conditions and age. Aprons stored in a hanging position show a greater degree of weakening of the X-ray beam, and thus a higher degree of worker protection, compared to aprons stored otherwise. The age of the apron affects its protective properties. Med Pr. 2022;73(1):13-7.