Radiation Safety in Practice: A Cross‐Sectional Study on Radiographers' Knowledge, Awareness and Adherence to Personal Radiation Monitoring Devices in Resource Limited Settings

INTRODUCTION: Diagnostic radiographers work in environments where ionizing radiation is used, making radiation protective measures essential for occupational safety. Personal Radiation Monitoring Devices (PRMDs) are used by diagnostic radiographers to monitor cumulative occupational exposure, resulting from faulty equipment or unsafe work practices; however, research indicates that strict adherence to PRMD use is not consistent. The study aimed to explore radiographers' knowledge, awareness and adherence to PRMD use in five major state hospitals in Namibia. METHODS: A quantitative, cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted using an online questionnaire. Fifty radiographers from five major Namibian public hospitals were targeted through convenience sampling. Data were analysed using IBM SPSS version 26 to assess levels of knowledge, awareness and adherence. RESULTS: Thirty radiographers participated in the study with a mean age of 32 years. Most respondents, n = 23 (77%), demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding PRMDs, with n = 26 (87%) 'strongly agreeing' that they understood the purpose of PRMDs. Regarding awareness, n = 14 (47%) showed good awareness; however, n = 22 (73%) reported not knowing their cumulative radiation exposure. Access to dose results was limited, with only n = 7 (23%) regularly reviewing their readings. Additionally, n = 22 (73%) reported that they would continue working without a PRMD. CONCLUSION: Namibian radiographers demonstrated adequate knowledge and awareness of PRMDs; however, adherence was low. It highlights the need for stricter compliance policies and enforcement. Further research is needed to investigate barriers to consistent usage and identify effective strategies to improve adherence.