This study evaluated the shielding efficiency of X-ray and CT scanner rooms in governmental and private imaging clinics across Baghdad. Concerns have arisen that some private facilities may not fully comply with shielding requirements recommended by the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP). The investigation aimed to assess compliance with international dose limits and identify potential safety deficiencies to protect patients, staff, and the public. Measurements of scattered and leakage radiation were conducted using a Geiger–Müller counter in both controlled and uncontrolled areas of multiple clinics. The results revealed that most governmental facilities maintained annual effective doses below NCRP limits, demonstrating adequate shielding performance and adherence to safety standards. However, several private clinics exhibited higher dose rates, particularly within CT-controlled zones and X-ray control rooms, where values reached or exceeded 0.25 mSv/year. In contrast, radiation levels in uncontrolled areas generally remained within safe limits. Overall, governmental clinics showed satisfactory compliance with radiation protection standards, whereas some private facilities displayed deficiencies in shielding effectiveness. These findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory oversight, periodic safety audits, and improved design protocols to ensure optimal radiation protection, particularly within the rapidly expanding private healthcare sector in Iraq.
Keywords
Radiation ProtectionShielding EfficiencyX-ray ClinicsCT Scanner and NCRP Standards.
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