Radiation Protection Evaluation of Medical X-ray Imaging Centers in Qazvin, Iran

Given the potential risks of x rays in imaging, it is necessary to evaluate the radiation safety of medical x-ray imaging rooms and radiation information of radiographers. A descriptive study has been carried out in Qazvin, Iran, in the form of a questionnaire answered by radiography technologists in private and public imaging centers to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and performance about x-ray exposure and safety against it. Afterward, the radiation doses of public areas of the radiography centers were measured by a survey meter. A checklist was also completed, containing items about availability of ventilation facilities in x-ray rooms, radiation warning signs, radiation work schedules, documents of periodic blood test monitoring, exposure history of radiographers by film badge, and documents of the quality control of x-ray devices. The data analysis was performed by SPSS 16 using descriptive study, t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson's correlation coefficient test. The mean attitude and knowledge scores were 6.65 +/- 1.63 out of 9 and 4.82 +/- 2.06 out of 15, respectively. Sex, age, and workplace had no significant effect on the radiographers' knowledge and attitude, while occupational experience had a negative relationship, and level of education had a significant direct association with knowledge of the participants (p-value<0.05). The performance of the staff was somewhat good. Almost all x-ray imaging centers had good radiation protection conditions. The annual quality control of x-ray imaging devices was ensured. The radiation protection awareness among the medical radiographers in Qazvin city needs to be improved, especially among the experienced staff.