Occupational Radiation Exposure Among Health Assistants: Dosimetric Assessment And Safety Implications Of Diagnostic X-Rays

Abstract

It is necessary to do detailed dosimetric assessments in order to evaluate the safety and long-term health implications of occupational radiation exposure for health assistants working in diagnostic radiology. The primary source of radiation exposure for these individuals is dispersed X-rays, which are used during patient positioning and procedure support. However, this research highlights higher hazards from fluoroscopy (1-2 mSv/year) and cumulative stochastic consequences such as cancer and cataracts. The research synthesises global and regional data that reveals annual effective doses of 0.5-3 mSv, which is substantially below the ICRP limit of 20 mSv.

In the literature review, exposure pathways, TLD/retrospective dosimetry methodologies, biological consequences, and ALARA-based protections are discussed. The review draws from research conducted by the Saudi Ministry of Health that showed averages of 0.88 mSv among more than 45,000 employed individuals. Key findings highlight inadequacies in ocular shielding (which is used forty percent of the time) and training, advocating for mandated personal dosimeters, thyroid/eye protection, distance optimization, and annual education sessions. These techniques, when implemented, have the potential to minimize dosages by twenty to thirty percent, so assuring occupational safety while retaining workflow efficiency.