EVALUATING OCCUPATIONAL DOSE MONITORING IN RADIOLOGY: A CASE STUDY OF RADIOGRAPHERS AT FEDERAL MEDICAL CENTRE JALINGO

Background: One essential component of radiological safety is occupational dose monitoring (ODM), which shields radiation workers from any radiation health-related concerns. Radiographers are frequently exposed to different radiation levels, which calls for strict monitoring and control procedures to guarantee their safety. This study aims to assess the level of Radiographers' occupational dose level (ODL). It will also assess whether the current dose limits are effective and in line with international radiation safety standards. Methods: This was a questionnaire-based study. Ethical approval was sought from the institution’s ethics committee. Participants were only Radiographers and were actively involved in routine Departmental activities within the last 12 months at the study site. Consented Radiographers were recruited and issued a validated questionnaire. The questionnaire contains closed-ended questions on demography, personnel radiation dose level, and their perceived effectiveness of institutional radiation protection practices. Data was processed and expressed in terms of frequency and proportions. Results: A total of 26 responses were collected, with 79.9% (n=20) being male and 23.1% (n=6) being female. Radiographers with B. Rad. degrees were the highest with 34.6% (n=9). About 66.4% (n=17) of Radiographers operate within safe dose limits, while 34.6% (9) are within the maximum permissible dose of 20mSv. There was effective implementation of safety measures and adherence to radiation protection guidelines as 81% (n=25) of respondents were satisfied with the effectiveness of ODM at the study center. Key radiation protection practices such as the presence of lead lining walls, use of TLDs, and working closely with regulated authorities among others. Conclusion: Primary radiation workers are conscious of ODL and working within the recommendations. The institutionalized radiation protection measures are effective and they closely collaborate with relevant authorities on best radiation protection practices at the study site.