Similar to the health care field, veterinary radiation protection consists of a set of practices and protocols aimed at ensuring the safety of personnel, animals, and the environment during the use of ionizing radiation for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
In this article we offer an overview of the topic, with a focus on the elements to be considered.
Veterinary radiation protection: definition of risks
Risks from the use of radiological instrumentation arise mainly from excessive radiation exposure, which could cause biological damage in both the animals and personnel involved.
Among the main risks is the possibility of developing tissue damage from prolonged or high exposures to ionizing radiation. This damage can affect the health of animals, compromising their welfare and the quality of veterinary care.
In addition, there is a risk of radioactive contamination of the surrounding environment as a result of accidents or inadequate management of the radioactive sources used.
In the context of a veterinary clinic, radiation protection is about understanding and mitigating these risks.
In Italy, radiological safety in veterinary clinics is regulated by several regulations: among these we find are Legislative Decree 101/2020 and Legislative Decree 187/2000.
Imaging techniques and radiation protection
Imaging techniques used in veterinary diagnostics, such as radiography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based on ionizing radiation-are essential for the evaluation and diagnosis of medical conditions in animals.
Veterinary clinics must therefore take appropriate measures to minimize radiation exposure. Below we look at the main ones:
- Use of appropriate shielding to reduce radiation leakage (e.g., leaded screens);
- proper positioning of animals during examination to obtain quality images with minimal radiation dose;
- use of dosimetry devices to monitor personnel exposure;
- training in safe use of radiological equipment, optimal imaging protocols, and radiation protection practices.
Similarly, it is critical to implement a secure radiation management system.
Radiological waste management: collection, disposal and monitoring
Radiological waste management concerns the disposal of materials contaminated by radiological activities, such as gloves, protective clothing, equipment, and biological samples.
Waste must be collected in dedicated and properly marked containers, carefully separating the waste according to its level of radioactivity and physical and chemical characteristics.
Disposal shall be handled in accordance with applicable regulations and entrusted to licensed specialized companies. These firms adopt safe procedures for transporting and processing the waste, ensuring the protection of the environment and human health.
Environmental monitoring, on the other hand, makes it possible to assess the impact of radiological waste on the surrounding environment by measuring radiation levels in the air, soil and surface water, as well as assessing the presence of radionuclides in the environment.
In this scenario, veterinary clinics are required to cooperate with the relevant authorities to ensure safe and responsible management of radiological waste, minimizing the risk of pollution and protecting public health and the ecosystem.
The Role of the Radiation Protection Expert
As you might guess, the Radiation Protection Expert (EDR) plays a key role in coordinating various activities: he or she is responsible for ensuring compliance with current radiological safety regulations and adopting best practices to protect personnel, animals, and the environment from ionizing radiation.
The EDR works with veterinary staff to plan and implement safety protocols during the use of radiological equipment. He or she is responsible for calibration and maintenance of radiological devices, as well as proper waste management. He also provides training and information on safe practices in the use of radiation and participates in the assessment of radiological risks specific to the veterinary facility.
Through his or her contribution, a safe working environment is ensured and radiation exposure in the veterinary clinical environment is minimized.
Want more information on this topic?
Contact us at [email protected]
Call us at +39 0221103454
