Radiation Protection Standards
Ensuring Compliance and Safety
Radiation aprons are essential protective equipment for healthcare professionals regularly exposed to ionising radiation. The new standards introduced focus on improving both safety and comfort. These updates mean that many older products may no longer meet the requirements for use in medical facilities. Let’s break down the key changes and highlight some solutions from ARO Systems that will ensure your practice remains compliant.
Key Updates to the Standards
1. Material Composition
The new standards focus on lighter, stronger materials that maintain effective protection without causing strain to the wearer. Many older lead aprons, which are heavy, are being replaced with more advanced options like Outlast® garments from ARO Systems. Outlast, originally developed by NASA, is stitched into medical garments for all-day wear comfort, helping to regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. Explore more about Burlington Medical Outlast®.
2. Improved Ergonomics
Medical staff often wear radiation aprons for long periods, which can cause discomfort. The new standards place a heavy emphasis on ergonomic designs. ARO Systems offers Vests and Skirt/Kilts combos with a free Thyroid Shield included, ensuring maximum coverage and comfort, allowing users to work longer without fatigue.
3. Traceability and Wear-and-Tear Monitoring
Radiation aprons now need to be tracked throughout their lifespan to avoid using outdated or damaged equipment. ARO Systems provides SmartID technology embedded in the aprons, allowing practices to easily monitor the condition and replacement timeline of each garment.
4. Protection for Different Body Parts
The new standards also address the need for comprehensive protection across various parts of the body. ARO Systems offers full-body protection solutions, including hand, head, arm, back, and leg wraps, ensuring that all vulnerable areas are safeguarded from radiation exposure.
Non-Compliant Products
Older aprons made of lead equivalents may no longer meet the new safety and comfort standards. If your facility is still using these, it's time to upgrade. For example, older aprons without features like antimicrobial fabrics or Smart ID tracking will soon become obsolete. ARO Systems offers aprons with antimicrobial fabrics that help prevent bacteria build-up and prolong the lifespan of your protective gear. Have a look at the Burlington Medical Fabric Gallery for over 200 choices.
Additional Solutions from ARO Systems
- Disinfectants: ARO Systems also provides disinfectants approved for cleaning X-ray garments, ensuring your protective gear is kept in top condition.
- Storage Solutions: Proper storage is vital for maintaining the integrity of your aprons. Check out ARO Systems' robust hanging systems designed for large racks.
- Lead Barriers, Shields, Screens and Curtains: For additional protection, ARO Systems also offers lead shields and screens, which are essential for reducing radiation exposure in large facilities.
- Leaded Eyewear: The eyes are one of the most vulnerable areas when it comes to radiation exposure. Ensure your staff is equipped with top-tier radiation protection eyewear.
Standards Compliance
Stay updated and ensure that your practice is aligned with the latest industry regulations. ARO Systems provides a guide to the new standards for radiation protection gear to keep your equipment compliant Standards. Regarding Radiation Protection Garments, all products we have a compliant with AS/NZS IEC 61331.3:2022 (which is based on IEC 61331-3:2014) and have TGA, after all, its about protecting you and your patients.
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Conclusion
The new radiation apron standards are a necessary step forward in protecting healthcare professionals from radiation exposure while ensuring comfort and usability. ARO Systems offers a comprehensive range of solutions to help your facility upgrade to compliant, ergonomic, and durable protective gear. From vests and skirts to lead screens and Smart ID tracking, we've got you covered.
Ready to upgrade? Contact ARO Systems today to explore the full range of products that meet these new standards.