Surveillance of X-ray machines in Israel

A nationwide surveillance of X-ray machines is carried out in Israel by the Research Institute for Environmental Health, Ministry of Health. At present, diagnostic X-ray machines are surveyed at least once every two years, while dental machines are surveyed once every five years. The investigated parameters include measurement of output, scattered radiation, X-ray-light-field alignment, HVL, inherent filtration, structural shielding, etc. In order to compare X-ray techniques used in different hospitals in Israel, the NEXT (Nationwide Evaluation of X-ray Trends) program, which was developed by the BRH (Bureau of Radiological Health, USPHS) was utilized. On the basis of the findings of this project, necessary correction steps were taken in order to reduce the radiation doses to both personnel and patients. Further activities of the Institute include the estimation of doses delivered to pregnant women who were irradiated during the gestation period. This information is sent to a professional committee, which decides whether or not to perform an abortion. Recently, the new recommendations of ICRP 26 (International Commission on Radiological Protection) were implemented in Israel. Therefore, at present doses over 150 mR/month are reported to the Institute by the Soreq Personal Dosimetry Service, and the causes of this exposure are investigated. (author)