Radiation protection practices

Abstract

This study was carried out to assess the standard of personnel radiation protection practices in industrial radiography in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. A non-experimental prospective survey design was used for the study. A sample size of 11 inspection Companies and 26 radiation workers were randomly selected for the survey. The objectives of the study were to determine the standard of personnel radiation monitoring practices, training given to personnel, quality assurance practices and to assess the adequacy of the work area design used for industrial radiography. Results showed that personnel are provided with radiation monitoring devices and are routinely monitored. They undergo medical check ups and attend periodic seminars. However, majority of the personnel were not fundamentally trained in radiography prior to industrial radiography work. Regular quality assurance tests were done and the work area design was adequate. Results suggest that adequate fundamental training of personnel in general radiography prior to industrial radiography work will further improve the standard of personnel radiation protection practices in industrial radiography.

Nigerian Medical Practitioner Vol. 54 (3-4) 2008: pp. 61-65