ALARA & protective apparel

what does ALARA stand for?

as low as reasonably achievable

what does ALARA stress the importance of?

all radiation exposure is to be kept as far below legal limits as possible

what is the greatest threat when it comes to operator exposure?

scatter radiation coming from patient

what other things may effect operator exposure?

scatter radiation coming from tube x-ray table top, bucky tray, or leakage radiation coming from tube housing

where must operators stand during exposure?

in the control area behind a protective barrier

what must be provided for operators for viewing?

a window having similar attenuation properties

if the operator is required to remain in the exam room during the exposure, what 3 things must he/she must do?

• stand as far as practicable from the scattered radiation source

• wear appropriate protective apparel

• use personnel monitoring device

protective apparel and accessories (3)

protective aprons, thyroid shields, and protective gloves

what material and thickness should the protective apparel and accessories have?

0.25 mm (Pb) equivalent to attenuate 97% of scattered radiation

what happens to the remaining 3% of scattered radiation?

it is absorbed by air

why must protective apparel by hung properly?

to prevent cracking of material

guidelines for individuals who are occupationally exposed to radiation (5)

• hold only in an emergency

• must wear appropriate shielding devices

• positioned so that no part of the operator’s body will be struck by the useful beam

• must wear personnel monitoring device

• involve a parent if possible

where must personnel monitoring devices be worn?

outside of the apron and collar level

what is forbidden when it comes to students and training?

holding patients and exposure of an individual for training purposes