LAUSR

Abstract Effective implementation and ongoing monitoring of occupational radiation safety and protection is key for radiographers as prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation can increase the risk of long-term ill health effects. It is important that radiographers are aware of what is required of them to remain within the permitted dose limit. Topics and training on dose monitoring and occupational practice safety and practice are embedded in both undergraduate and postgraduate courses and ongoing as part of continuous professional development. However, whether these are accurately, effectively implemented and adhered too in practice needs to be monitored. This study aimed to investigate students and radiographers’ awareness, observations, and understandings of their compliance to occupational radiation safety and protection and monitoring thereof in the clinical setting. A cross sectional survey design with a questionnaire consisting of closed and open-ended items were used. The data were analysed with the use of SPSS statistical software tool. The response rates for student radiographers were 62% and qualified radiographers 23.19%. Most participants indicated that they were knowledgeable on best practice methods regarding radiation protection and safety. However, regarding the importance of personal monitoring devices, the responses varied and there were some inconsistencies. The perspectives of participants on rotating through different imaging examination types revealed that of least importance was the occupational exposure. Students were focused as part of their training on acquiring the necessary skills to conduct imaging examinations. Qualified radiographers focused on upkeeping their skills when it came to their rotation between the general and specialized imaging examinations. To overcome some of these inconsistencies it is recommended that standardized practice guidelines be reviewed by both the academic institution and the clinical training sites enforcing the importance of dose monitoring and radiation safety and best practice principles.