Answer to Question #8825 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Q

I work for an orthopedic surgeon and have a yearly exposure dose of 1.447 rem during procedures where I am required to use my hands within a fluoroscopy field. I am having difficulty finding the linear no-threshold model to determine my risk associated with this level of exposure. Once I have found this information how do I present the risk information to my employer in order to be provided appropriate shielding?

A

Your question did not indicate if your annual dosimeter total was for whole body or extremity. If it is for whole body and you work with your hands in the primary beam, the radiation dose to your hands could be significantly higher. In either case, 1.447 rem is a significant radiation dose; however, it is below the  typical state dose limits of 5 rem/year for whole body and 50 rem/year for extremities.

Since this dose is below what is considered an acceptable radiation dose for an occupational radiation worker, the concern is not the risk, but the statement that you work with your hands in the primary x-ray beam. State radiation safety regulations typically prohibit any part of the body from being in the primary x-ray beam unless it is properly shielded. In the case of the hands, that would mean wearing the heavy lead gloves. If you are working with your hands unprotected in the primary x-ray beam, you should stop this practice immediately.

If you are "required" to do this practice, you need to discuss this with your supervisor or the radiation safety officer for your facility. If you situation is still not resolved, you are free to contact the radiation control program for the state you are working in. Its regulations are in place to protect the patient, the worker, and the public and should also protect the individual expressing concerns over use of radiation in the workplace.

Kennith "Duke" Lovins, CHP