Knowledge of radiation safety amongst radiation workers in the department of Radiation Oncology at the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital 2008-2009

Abstract

BACKGROUND Numerous studies have shown an increased incidence of adverse health effects in atomic bomb survivors, patients post medical exposure to ionizing radiation and in staff who are occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation. Radiation protection is therefore important to protect both people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. With the increasing use of ionizing radiation in diagnostic and therapeutic medicine it is important to limit the dose received by radiation workers. Several international studies have been conducted to assess the knowledge of radiation safety amongst radiation workers. The results thereof have shown that knowledge varies considerably between the different studies. This research study was done to assess the knowledge of radiation safety amongst radiation staff at the department of Radiation Oncology at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH). OBJECTIVES The objectives were to assess the knowledge of radiation safety amongst radiation workers and identify ways in which participants would prefer to improve their knowledge of radiation safety. MATERIALS AND METHODS A prospective cross sectional study was undertaken of all radiation workers in the Department of Radiation Oncology at CMJAH from the 14th to 28th of March 2016. A standardized questionnaire was used to assess the general knowledge

of radiation protection, dose limits, personal monitoring devices and the health effects of radiation amongst staff members. Respondents were asked to comment on their own knowledge of both radiation safety and the department’s radiation safety procedures; as well as to suggest how to improve the overall radiation safety in the department. RESULTS 85 staff members participated in the study with an overall response rate of 90%. The mean Knowledge score was 73%. 58% (n=49) of respondent’s had a “Good” score, 35% (n=30) had a “Fair” score and 7% (n=6) a “Poor” score. 93% (n=79) of respondents had an adequate knowledge to work in a radiation environment. The mean Knowledge score was higher for those who had over 10 years of registration compared to those that had 0-5 years registration (p=0.032). The Nurses and Radiotherapy students were the poorest respondent’s in certain categories. 49% (n=42) of respondents indicated that they felt that they knew enough about radiation safety in their own working environment and 49% (n=42) also indicated that they were aware of the department’s radiation safety procedures. The preferred method to improve overall radiation safety was departmental lectures (67%, n=57). 32% (n=27) of respondents suggested formal refresher courses with a further 11% (n=9) suggesting other options that included the provision of educational material (in the form of booklets and pamphlets); better orientation of new staff; and for clearer safety protocols to be displayed in the department. CONCLUSION Our study showed that 93% of respondents had an adequate knowledge to work in a radiation environment. However the Nurses and Radiotherapy students were the poorest respondent’s in certain categories and would therefore need more targeted support to improve their knowledge of radiation safety. To increase awareness levels among staff, the author suggests that greater emphasis needs to be on implementing orientation programs for all new staff joining, regular and ongoing seminars and training programs in radiation safety.