Use of generator-produced radionuclides in nuclear medicine procedures: analysis of personnel doses and laboratory work practices

A survey was conducted for evaluation of personnel doses and laboratory work practices in Indian institutions using sup(99m)Tc and sup(113m)In generators. Some of the information was obtained from replies to a questionnaire sent to these institutions and some from personnel dose records maintained by the Division of Radiological Protection, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Bombay. The results of this analysis are presented. The analysis suggests that, while a wide range of personnel doses is seen among the staff members working with generator produced radionuclides, there is a general trend toward increased doses in comparison with the doses of other personnel in nuclear medicine departments. Also, the doses received by personnel handling the generators were found to be higher than the doses prior to the installation of the generators. (author)