TECHNICAL CONSIDERATION AND SAFETY CONSIDERATION

TECHNICAL CONSIDERATION

1.1. Structural Design and Shielding

Structural design is the foundation of a radiography department’s functionality, with particular attention to the requirements for radiation protection. Lead shielding is necessary to prevent radiation leakage, and walls, floors, and ceilings must be adequately reinforced based on the types of radiation equipment used. The orientation and layout of rooms must also factor in radiation containment, ensuring that the primary and secondary barriers effectively limit exposure to non-radiation workers and patients in adjacent areas (IAEA, 2014). The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) specifies minimum shielding requirements and room size specifications that must be adhered to, ensuring that every radiography suite is designed with optimal safety in mind.

1.2. Equipment Placement and Ergonomics

Equipment placement is essential for patient safety and radiographers' ergonomic comfort. The floor plan should accommodate large diagnostic devices such as CT scanners, MRI machines, and X-ray units while ensuring sufficient space for patient beds and transport systems. Moreover, workstation design should consider ergonomic factors, minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal injuries for staff who perform repetitive tasks Mohan (2018) found that poorly designed workstations contribute to work-related injuries, which can be avoided by thoughtful placement of control panels, displays, and other critical equipment in accessible locations.

1.3. Communication and Technological Infrastructure

A radiology department should incorporate a robust technological infrastructure to support modern diagnostic practices. The inclusion of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) is essential for efficient storage, retrieval, and sharing of digital images. The design should also integrate fibre-optic cabling or other high-speed networks for seamless communication between diagnostic units and healthcare information systems. Future-proofing the department by designing adaptable spaces for new technologies will ensure the facility can remain functional as imaging tools evolve (Ranschaert, 2018) 

According to Sutherland et al (2018) Private radiology facilities should use new virtual and augmented reality technologies. This department will be a mobile department making everything digital to ensure correct diagnosis and patient safety. Radiographers have been thoroughly trained in the use of this complex equipment, and doctors and experts have extensive experience with radioactive tracers for MRI, CT, and Ultrasound scans. Each radiography personnel or staff member in the department will be provided a dosimeter device to measure their radiation exposure.

Sutherland et al. (2018) further imply that communication is important in radiology organisations. As a result, our department has established a robust communication system to foster successful collaboration among departments, referring physicians, and patients. Departmental systems enable the seamless interchange of patient information and imaging findings, resulting in faster consultations and treatment planning.

SAFETY CONSIDERATION

In light of the potential risks associated with X-rays, which utilize ionizing radiation that can deposit energy in human cells and cause tissue changes, it is crucial to implement strategies that minimize patient exposure. To this end, all staff members receive regular safety training and adhere to best practices. We achieve this by limiting radiation exposure to the minimum necessary for obtaining the clinical images required for medical assessment (IAEA, 2024). Additionally, we employ warning systems and guidelines for all our equipment to prevent excessive radiation doses. Our X-ray machines are equipped with dose reduction parameters and calibrated for specific conditions and thresholds, allowing radiographers to select appropriate patient sizes—large, medium, or small—to optimize dose exposure. Our team conducts daily tests on the X-ray machines, and technicians ensure that all equipment is functioning correctly at all times, maintaining strict compliance with established radiation regulations.