Re: Pb apron protocol

["Odlaug, Mike" <mao0303@hub.doh.wa.gov>]

We often get inquiries from people even in dental offices who are asked 
by accrediting bodies inspecting them to check their lead aprons, and 
some even arrange with a hospital to fluoro them (the aprons) to check 
for leaks, holes, cracks, etc. I explain that we, the state, have NO 
requirements for such testing, and that it is completely unnecessary. 
Even if there were some holes and cracks, big deal! It would be better 
than nothing. When it falls apart, THEN get rid of it. I know, what we 
should tell the dentists to do is to lay a patchwork of dental intraoral 
films all over it (all "under" it) and shoot it, develop them all and 
look for pinhole leaks. Hmmmmm.
Mike Odlaug
X-ray Manager
Division of Radiation Protection
Seattle- tel # 206 464 5408
fax 206 464 7081
Internet e-mail MAO0303@doh.wa.gov
Our Home Page: http://www.doh.wa.gov/ehp/rp