Exploring Radiation Protection & Safety Awareness among Radiologists, Radiographers and Allied Health Science Faculties and Students: An Institutional-based Study

Abstract

Background: Radiation protection awareness is essential for healthcare personnel who work directly or indirectly with ionising radiation. This study assessed awareness among radiologists, radiographers, allied health science faculty members, and students at a single academic institution. Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to April 2025 at J.N. Medical College and the Paramedical College, Aligarh Muslim University. The questionnaire comprised 24 multiple-choice items covering participant characteristics, basic radiation concepts, protection practices, monitoring devices, and regulatory knowledge. Of 107 responses received, 78 complete responses were analysed descriptively. Results: The sample included 33 males and 45 females; 91.1% were aged 20–30 years, and 69.2% were students. Although 76.9% had learned about ionising radiation academically, only 41.3% had attended a specialised radiation-safety workshop or lecture. Most participants recognised the risk of X-rays during pregnancy (91.1%) and identified lead as the preferred shielding material (85.9%). However, only 41.0% identified bone marrow as the most radiosensitive organ, 57.7% knew the occupational dose limit of 20 mSv/year, and 69.2% identified the AERB as India’s radiation-safety regulator. Knowledge of lead-apron thickness and personnel monitoring was uneven across professional groups. Conclusion: Participants demonstrated reasonable awareness of basic radiation risks but notable gaps in technical, practical, and regulatory knowledge. Targeted, curriculum-integrated education and regular institutional training may strengthen radiation-safety awareness, particularly among students and non-radiography professionals.