Radiology Forums

Amethyst · Joined: 27 Jun 2008 Posts: 2

I'm looking for info on safety of being a rad tech. Do any of you worry about cancer from repeat radiation or thyroid problems? What are the other risks of this job? What if I become pregnant? Could I still be a rad tech or have to do desk work?

hjhogle · Posted: Sun Jun 29, 2008 10:36 pm Post subject:

The answer to your first question is "no".

One of the biggest health risks in radiologic technology is back injury. Lifting patients and moving equipment without paying attention to protecting yourself ... you're quite likely to end up with a bad back.

RT's are not exposed to much radiation - if you practice as a professional, you've learned appropriate radiation protection techniques .. not only for your patient's health, but for your own.

Many RT's (the women) become pregnant and don't quit their jobs. They continue working and again - they practice appropriate radiation protection.

I don't expect that the army trains sharpshooters without teaching them gun safety. RT's are trained to use ionizing radiation safely and effectively.

Good luck
hjh, RT

tomas · Joined: 03 Jul 2008 Posts: 10

There will always be an increased risk to radiation workers due to the effects of ionizing radiation on the human body. The job of the technician and their management is to provide and adhere to procedures developed to minimize this exposure to all involved.