Re: Rad workers - but not trained

["Sandy Perle" <sandyfl@ix.netcom.com>]

Kent Lambert makes some excellent points in his posting.

> This is not to excuse misinformation (a dental x-ray is like a day in
> the sun) or improper procedures (failing to place the lead apron between
> the patient and the x-ray source, or disinformation (the
> radiopharmaceutical is a non-radioactive dye).  

I believe there are two issues:

1. The workers own knowledge of what they are working with, i.e., 
    what the regulatory limits are, what the exposure report 
    regarding their assigned "official dose of record" means to them, 
    and how they can avoid unnecessary exposure. 

2. Responding to a queation regarding radiation exposure, safety, 
    etc. from a patient or general member of the public.

My original post was specifically directed to item 1, and as an 
intangible, item 2 is brought to light. Based on many postings to the 
Radsafe list, and private replies, there is an apparent lack of 
understanding the basics in radiation safety, and/or the meaning of 
exposure in general. While many programs teach the basics, the amount 
of time spent on the various subjects is minimal. The majority of 
time is spent teaching the basic hands on tools that they are 
expected to accomplish. That is the main point I believe Kent was 
making. They for the most part do that job extremely well. 

In my opinion, there needs to be some continuing education program 
whereby many subjects can be presented, i.e., radiation safety, 
basics, etc. This is good for the institution and the employee both. 
A well-trained and educated worker is more apt to do a better job, 
feel better about themselves and their employer, for taking the time 
to advance their knowledge level. In the area of radiation training, 
I believe that this should be essential. At lesat the basics of what 
a dose and an exposure mean to them, as an individual.


------------------
Sandy Perle
Technical Director
ICN Dosimetry Division
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Office: (800) 548-5100 x2306 
Fax:    (714) 668-3149
  
mailto:sandyfl@ix.netcom.com
 mailto:sperle@icnpharm.com

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