Radiation Protection Shields: A Buyer’s Guide

Radiation protection shield products are the only things that should come between you and your radiologic work. The biggest question is how do you choose the right protective gear in this complex and changing field? New developments continuously expand the range of radiology in healthcare and industrial settings. This dynamic evolution demands that technological advances in personal protective equipment (PPE) keep pace.

The upside of this rapid proliferation is more options than ever before. Barrier Technologies® presents this comprehensive buyer’s guide that explores factors to consider when selecting the best radiation shielding for yourself, your facility, and your radiological procedures. Together, we’ll put your safety first.

 

Who Needs Radiation Protection Shielding?

Workplaces commonly using ionizing radiation include medical, dental, and veterinary facilities, research laboratories, and industries employing radiographic non-destructive testing (NDT). If you are in such an environment, radiation protection shields your personal well-being by attenuation—the core material absorbs or blocks scatter radiation, significantly reducing its intensity and possible adverse health effects. 

You should have your own radiation-protective PPE if your daily work involves any of the following apparatus:

• Fixed or mobile X-ray machines.
• Computed tomography (CT) scanners.
• All types of fluoroscopes.
• Orthovoltage X-ray treatment units.
• Brachytherapy devices.

The scope of personnel involved with radiation is far-reaching and growing, particularly in the healthcare sphere. Here are examples of professionals who routinely wear X-ray protective gear during their working day:

1. Radiology: Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologists, Radiographers, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians, Radiology Nurses.
2. Dentistry: General Dentists, Dental Assistants, Orthodontists, Periodontists, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
3. Medicine: Cardiologists, Gastroenterologists, Orthopedic Surgeons, Vascular Surgeons, Pulmonologists, Oncologists, Pain Management Specialists, Surgical Nurses.

 

Types of PPE for Radiation Protection

PPE for radiation protection acts as a defensive safeguard to minimize exposure to radiosensitive areas of the human body. The most susceptible parts include the bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, testes and ovaries, intestinal epithelium, skin, thyroid gland, and the lenses of the eyes. Barrier Technologies supplies apparel and accessories that assure maximum coverage of these vulnerable tissues.

 

#1: Protective Aprons

A lead or lead-free apron is your basic protective garment. It shields the torso, abdomen, pelvis, and femurs during diagnostic and interventional radiology procedures.

• Frontal aprons: Best if you are stationary and facing the X-ray apparatus.
• Full wrap aprons: For all-around protection, mobility, and easy donning and doffing.
• Vest and skirt sets: Offer a full range of motion and distribute weight to reduce musculoskeletal strain. 

 

#2: Thyroid Shields

A thyroid shield is a protective collar that wraps around your neck to preserve your delicate thyroid gland during X-ray imaging, CT scans, fluoroscopy, and dental X-rays.

• Boomerang style: A standard collar that covers the neck and throat area.
• Visor style: An extra section extends downwards to cover the upper chest.
• Disposable option: An environmentally friendly, cost-effective choice that eliminates sharing.

 

#3. Leaded Eyewear

Caring for your precious vision takes the highest priority. Wearing leaded glasses is crucial if you work in fluoroscopy, diagnostic and interventional radiology, or industrial radiography. We offer a variety of branded frames fitted with top-quality 0.75 mm lead equivalence (LE) lenses from Corning’s Med X® range.

 

#4. Radiation Protective Gloves and Sleeves

Radiodermatitis is a serious concern in the hands and arms. Pair our gloves with protective sleeves during interventional cardiology or fluoroscopy-guided procedures. 

• XR1 gloves: For maximum tactile sensitivity.
• XR2 gloves: For maximum attenuation.
• XRF gloves: Latex-free to avoid allergic reactions.

 

#5. Caps, Headbands, Dental Aprons, Demi and Half Aprons, Belts, and More!

Boost your protection and comfort level with our wide range of radiation-protective accessories. Barrier Technologies supplies these additional items for extra safety and support. Please browse our latest catalogs to supplement your PPE.

 

Factors to Consider When Buying Radiation Protective Shields

Choosing the best radiation shielding depends on the nature of your application and anticipated levels of radiation exposure. You’ll need more protection if you undertake real-time imaging or experience prolonged exposure and higher dose rates. Here are some vital factors to consider when selecting your PPE:

1. Material Composition: Although lead shield radiation protection is still considered the gold standard, this toxic metal has inherent hazards. Lead-free core materials offer similar protection without all the drawbacks.
2. Shield Design and Coverage: The design should adequately cover the intended tissues and organs. Also, consider the lead equivalence. For example, aprons should be no less than 0.35 mm LE for general diagnostic imaging and 0.5 mm LE for all other applications. 
3. Certifications and Standards: Check compliance with local and international regulators such as the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP), Conformitè Europëenne (CE), and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
4. Comfort and Mobility: Assess if you could spend long hours wearing the PPE without discomfort and fatigue. Additionally, does it have the necessary range of flexibility and movement?
5. Maintenance and Durability: High-quality fabrics and components, meticulous manufacture, and ease of cleaning will ensure longevity and sustained effectiveness in radiation protection.

 

Why Choose Barrier Technologies’ Radiation Protection Shields?

With two decades in the industry, Barrier Technologies is a widely acknowledged frontrunner in radiation protection. We constantly strive to find innovative, breakthrough solutions that negate the dangers of scatter radiation. Our company motto, “Your safety is our concern”, reflects our passionate commitment to protecting your health and well-being now and in the future.

We place a strong emphasis on designs and materials that provide optimal coverage combined with ease of use. To this end, we conduct ongoing research and development to bring you novel and often revolutionary products. These include our proprietary UltraFlex™ covering fabric and patented MagnaGuard™ magnetic closure system.

All our products are proudly manufactured in the USA to the most exacting standards of quality and craftsmanship. Our customer-centric approach offers you expert guidance, rapid delivery times, responsive customer support, and unbeatable after-sales service. We invite you to read our Capabilities Statement to see who we are and what we can do for you.

 

Protect Yourself With Our Radiation Protection Shielding

When buying radiation protection equipment, there are many important factors to consider based on your characteristics and the nature of your work. You should explore the best radiation shielding materials, effective shield design, conformance to regulations, comfort, and durability.

We confidently state that when you have made your comparisons, Barrier Technologies will appear at the top of your list of preferred manufacturers. We supply the latest radiation protection shield technology and equipment to meet your every need.

Our friendly and highly competent staff have all the answers to your radiation protection questions. Contact us now to make the right choice for your safety!