Integrity of personal radiation protective equipment (PRPE): a 4-year longitudinal follow-up study

Abstract

Background Personal radiation protective equipment (PRPE) such as lead aprons minimises radiation exposure of operators using X-ray systems. However, PRPE might be prone to cracks in the attenuating layer resulting in inadequate radiation protection. This study aims to investigate the prevalence, qualification and quantification of PRPE integrity during a longitudinal follow-up study. Methods All PRPE of a large, general hospital was evaluated yearly in the period 2018–2021. The equipment was inspected on a tele-operated X-ray table, and tears were qualified and quantified using an X-ray opaque ruler. Rejection criteria of Lambert & McKeon, with an extra rejection criterion of 15 mm2 for individual tears, were applied to accept or reject further use of the PRPE. Results Over the 4-year follow-up period, a total of 1011 pieces of PRPE were evaluated. In total, 47.3% of the PRPE showed tears of which 31% exceeded the mentioned rejection criteria. Remarkably, of the 287 newly registered pieces of PRPE, 6.0% showed tears in the first year of use of which 88.2% needed to be rejected. Also, 48% of the repaired PRPE was rejected again in the consecutive year. Conclusions PRPE is prone to cracks. Up to 50% of PRPE showed tears and cracks resulting in 31% rejections. Newly purchased PRPE is not guaranteed to remain free of cracks and tears in the first year of use. Repair does not guarantee a long-term solution for prolonging the lifespan. Regular X-ray-based integrity analysis of PRPE is needed to ensure adequate radioprotection for operators using X-ray systems.

Development of Lead-Free Radiation Shielding Material Utilizing Barium Sulfate and Magnesium Oxide as Fillers in Addition Cure Liquid Silicone Rubber

“…Historically, PRPE has been manufactured using lead powder-loaded polymers and lowmelting-point lead alloys [6,7]. The heavy weight [8][9][10], low flexibility [11], fragility [12], and toxicity [13] of the shielding materials are described as the main technological challenges for the development of safe and top-quality garments. Progress has been achieved with the incorporation of metal powders into polymer sheets, increasing the compound resistance against cracks and other forms of deterioration [14,15].…”