Get UNC School of Dentistry Radiation Safety Program Guide 2012-2024

For reducing radiation exposure, there are 3 principals: time, distance, and shielding.

Remain at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from an x-ray radiation source. Radiation is significantly reduced by distance. Do not be near x-ray equipment, if not required, move away. Never stand in the line with the direct x-ray beam.

The amount of radiation exposure is not inversely proportional to the distance from the radiation source, but is inversely proportional to the square of the distance [2,4]. This means that double the distance from the radiation source can reduce the radiation exposure not to 1/2 but to 1/4.

Multiple studies show that anaesthesia providers may stand 1.5 m or more from the C-arm without being exposed to significant amounts of radiation.

Scatter radiation exposure, the most common type of exposure you will receive in diagnostic radiology, is reduced to 1/1000 the exposure the patient is receiving if you stand one meter (approximately 3 feet) from the patient.

Three basic principles should be adhered to when dealing with radiation and making radiographs: • Time • Distance • Shielding. These principles form the basis of a broader radiation safety concept called aLaRa (as Low as Reasonably achievable).

What is the 10-day rule? The 10-day rule was established by the International Commission on Radiological Protection to minimize the potential for performing x-ray exams on pregnant women. The basis of the rule was to do abdominal and pelvic x-ray exams only during the 10 days following the onset of menstruation.

In general, alpha, beta, gamma and x-ray radiation can be stopped by: Keeping the time of exposure to a minimum, Maintaining distance from the source, When appropriate, placing a shield between yourself and the source, and. Protecting yourself against radioactive contamination by using proper protective clothing.