A Survey of Diagnostic X-ray room design and shielding Integrity of Lead Aprons in a State in North Eastern Nigeria.

Abstract

Background: X-ray facility design and shielding integrity is meant to optimize the radiation safety of patients, staff and the general public.

Objectives: To determine the conformity to x-ray room design standards and the functional efficacy of lead aprons in the surveyed facilities.

Materials and Method: The survey was conducted in six radio diagnostic centres in Gombe State Nigeria labelled A to F for anonymity. The building layout of the radiology departments was sketched to show the dimensions (L x B x H) and adjoining structures. Datasheets were also used to record information about the radio-diagnostic facility. Lead aprons were inspected for defects by physical observation and by x-ray exposure.

Results: The x-ray room dimension of the six radio diagnostic centres with A(24 m2), B (14.8 m2), C (30 m2), D (36 m2), E (21.2 m2) and F (25 m2). All the walls of the radio-diagnostic room of the facility A, B, C and D were lined with 2 mm lead equivalent, whereas E and F were not. About 7 (38.8%) of lead aprons inspected were defective, while 11 (61.1%) were not defective.

Conclusion: There are compromises noted in the design of the facility and the majority of the lead aprons inspected showed good functional efficacy.