The evaluation of a radiotheraphy facility site and design

Soon after the discovery of X-rays in 1895, scientists were quick to realize its potential use in therapy. From it, came radiotherapy which is one of the main modalities used presently to treat cancer patients. Radiotherapy involves the use of high energy beams resulting in high doses which demands that measures be put in place for radiation protection and safety for the radiation workers, patients and public. This requires a comprehensive system to be put in place starting from the regulatory framework down to technical aspect. Amongst the many issues considered in order to achieve the objective of radiation protection and safety in radiotherapy is the facility itself where the practice is to be carried out. This includes the site evaluation of the radiotherapy facility and its design. The site where the facility will be established should be evaluated with the goal of radiation protection and safety as a factor. After having done so, the next stage will be to now design the facility in such a way the ultimate target of radiation protection and safety is achieved. The purpose of this project is to give an expose and analyze these two aspects in radiotherapy. A visit to a radiotherapy facility was conducted and the findings discussed. (author)