The type of x-ray machine (specifically the type of.

The type of tissue in the region of interest.In order to take a quality radiograph that details as much diagnostic information as possible the following factors must be considered: The mAs (milliampere seconds) determines the number of x-rays produced per unit time and the number of x-rays reaching the film determines the degree of blackening of the film. In the previousВ issue вЂњPhysics of RadiologyвЂќ we discussed that kVp (kilovolt peak/kilovolt potential) gives variable вЂњspeedвЂќ to the electrons determining the penetration of the x-ray beam, which affects the efficiency of x-ray production, and determines the scale of contrast in the image. Through quality assurance and equipment care, these faults can be avoided, or rectified quickly preventing unnecessary repeat radiographs and extended anesthesia for the patient. The most common cause of poor contrast in radiographs is inappropriate exposure factors.

DRДЄ number of faults can occur that are detrimental to the diagnostic value of a radiograph, which is why it is important to understand the exposure factors that affect radiograph quality. But that shielding evaluation by a qualified expert would provide the definitive answers you seek.Choosing the Appropriate Exposure FactorsД¬ourse 2 вЂ“ Choosing the Appropriate Exposure FactorsД¬ourse 4 вЂ“ Poor Quality Films-Causes and CorrectionsД¬ourse 5 вЂ“ Radiation Safety-Importance and ProceduresД¬ourse 6 вЂ“ Pros and Cons of Digital Radiography-CR vs. If the floor above is constructed of concrete, you most likely do not have an issue with radiation exposure in the office area below. I hope this helps you and alleviates some of your concerns. If your management does not know if a shielding evaluation was done, they could contact the individual who performs their annual x-ray audit/equipment performance evaluations as they may have been involved in that shielding-needs assessment or may know who to contact who can perform such an evaluation. There should be a copy of the shielding evaluation on file at the facility. That would typically be by an outside consultant or sometimes is provided through an x-ray equipment vendor's consultant physicist. What should have occurred and what most states require is that the facility have the shielding needs evaluated by a qualified expert (health physicist or medical physicist) prior to installation of the x-ray unit. Thus, there should not be x-ray exposure in your office below the room. If your facility has concrete within the floors (under the tile/carpet), it is quite likely that they had more than enough concrete shielding prior to installing the x-ray unit. Concrete is also an effective shield, but it typically takes a few inches depending upon the amount of x-ray use within the room. But lead is not the only shielding material that is commonly used in x-ray rooms. You are correct that lead is commonly used in x-ray shielding, particularly in walls and doors because a very thin amount of lead is all that is needed for adequate x-ray shielding. This question addresses some issues that I frequently get asked from members of the public regarding x-ray shielding.

Under exposure x ray