SU-E-P-20: Personnel Lead Apparel Integrity Inspection: Where We Are and What We Need?

Purpose: In recent years, tremendous efforts have been devoted to radiation dose reduction, especially for patients who are directly exposed to primary radiation or receive radiopharmaceuticals. Limited efforts have been focused on those personnel who are exposed to secondary radiation while fulfilling their work responsibilities associated with diagnostic imaging and image-guided interventions. Occupational exposure is compounded in daily practice and can lead to a significant radiation dose over time. Personnel lead apparel is a well-accepted engineering control to protect healthcare workers when radiation is inevitable. The question is, do we have a nationally established program to protect personnel? This study is to investigate the lead apparel inspection programs among the USA. Methods: A series of surveys of state regulations, the University Health System Consortium, and federal regulations and regulations determined by accrediting bodies were conducted. The surveys were used to determine the current status of lead apparel programs regarding integrity inspections. Based on the survey results, a thorough program was proposed accordingly. Results: Of 50 states, seventeen states and Washington D.C. require lead apparel integrity inspections within their state regulations. Eleven of these states specify that the inspection is required on an annual basis. Two of these states require lead apron integrity checks to be performed semi-annually. Eleven out of the two hundred academic medical centers surveyed responded. The results show that the method (visually vs. fluoroscopy) used to conduct lead apparel integrity checks differ greatly amongst healthcare organizations. The FDA, EPA, CRCPD and NCRP require lead apparel integrity checks. However, the level of policies is different. A standard program is not well established and clearly there is a lack of standardization. Conclusion: A program led by legislative (state or federal government) and with specific frequency, methods, tracking and criteria is needed to ensure the integrity of personnel lead apparel