Testing of lead clothing in X-ray department

Abstract

Purpose To test and implement a simple approach for examination of the suitability of the lead clothing used for protection of the staff in X-ray departments. Materials and methods According to European and Bulgarian legislation each X-ray has to be equipped with enough protection clothing. Every year these clothing have to be examined for defects which could lead to over exposure of the staff. A simple method for testing and rejection of the clothing was presented from Brian Philips et al. This method comprises several steps for examination together with rejection criteria for lead apron, thyroid shield and Gauntlet. Results Because of the daily use in most of the clothes defects were observed. The size of some of the defects could cause overexposure and overrun of the year dose limit of 20 mSv. Therefore these clothes were rejected and replaced with new. Conclusions Examination of the lead clothing must be included in every quality assurance program. This will keep the occupational exposure below the year effective dose limit.