RADIOGRAPHIC ROOM DESIGN AND LAYOUT FOR RADIATION PROTECTION IN SOME RADIO-DIAGNOSTIC FACILITIES IN KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Background: The radiographic room design and layout of the radio-diagnostic facilities involved in this study were converted from existing structures without the input the various professionals who use these facilities. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the measures for radiation protection installed in the building design and the layout of some radio-diagnostic facilities in Katsina state. Methodology: The room dimensions, distances between the operator booth and the radiation source and between the operator booth and the cheststand were measured. Lead lining on doors and room walls, warning signs, warning lights and the use of personnel monitoring devices were also carefully checked. Result: X-ray room dimensions were 20m², 38.5m² and 12.8m² for x-ray unit A, B and C, respectively. The distance from the operator to tube was 3.4m, 3.8m and 3.1m while that of operator to chest stand was 3.2m, 4.5m and 3.1m for x-ray unit A, B and C respectively. There were warning signs and lights in all the units. Conclusion: The use of radiation accessories and warning lights were satisfactory. Meanwhile, in order to ensure optimization of radiation protection, the various professionals such as radiographers, radiologists and medical physicists should, alongside the architect and engineers, play their role in the building design and the room layout of radio-diagnostic facilities.