Visualization of scattered radiation distribution under various X-ray room conditions in medical facilities and development of its display tool

Clear radiation protection training and explanation tools for medical staff, patients, and caregivers during radiography are required. In this study, we developed visualization tool of scattered radiation distribution image of each X-ray room conditions. The 400 cases of X-ray room conditions were simulated using a Monte Carlo simulation code, Particle and Heavy Ion Transport code System (PHITS). The simulation conditions were (1) width and depth of the X-ray room (200 cm, 250 cm, 300 cm, 400 cm and 500 cm), (2) opening or closing of the sliding door, (3) direction of the X-ray table, (4) X-ray posture, and (5) with or without protective clothing/shield. The scattered radiation distribution images were published on the Internet. The images are easily accessible on the Internet with selecting each radiography room condition. In radiation protection education, our tool can be used to (a) reduce radiation dose by keeping away from X-ray sources and scattered radiation sources, (b) shield scattered radiation by protective clothing and protective screens, and (c) prevent leakage of scattered radiation outside the room by closing the door of the radiography room. Our tool would improve the efficiency of radiation protection training for medical staff and alerting to patients and caregivers. (author)