Radiation safety considerations and compliance within equine veterinary clinics: Results of an Australian survey

• Application of the Code of Practice for Veterinary Medicine is poorly adhered to.
• Majority of veterinary clinics had not completed certified radiation safety course.
• One-fifth of participants did not use personal radiation monitoring.
• Increased education and training in area of radiation safety and protection required to generate compliance in clinics.

ObjectiveTo examine current knowledge and the level of compliance of radiation safety principles in equine veterinary clinics within Australia.MethodSurveys were sent to equine veterinary surgeons working in Australia. The survey was delivered both online and in hardcopy format; it comprised 49 questions, 15 of these directly related to radiation safety. The participants were asked about their current and previous use of radiation-producing equipment. Information regarding their level of knowledge and application of radiation safety principles and practice standards was collected and analysed.ResultsThe use of radiation-producing equipment was evident in 94% of responding clinics (a combination of X-ray, CT and/or Nuclear Medicine Cameras). Of those with radiation-producing equipment, 94% indicated that they hold a radiation licence, 78% had never completed a certified radiation safety course and 19% of participants did not use a personal radiation monitor. In 14% of cases, radiation safety manuals or protocols were not available within clinics.ConclusionsThe study has shown that knowledge and application of guidelines as provided by the Code of Practice for Radiation Protection in Veterinary Medicine (2009) is poorly adhered to. The importance of compliance with regulatory requirements is pivotal in minimising occupational exposure to ionising radiation in veterinary medicine, thus there is a need for increased education and training in the area.