A comparative analysis of measured and calculated absorbed doses on staff involved in conventional X-Ray examination in Federal Medical Center Jalingo, Taraba State, North-East Nigeria

Abstract

In recent years, medical radiation exposure has risen significantly, affecting both patients and healthcare professionals. This study investigates occupational exposure to ionizing radiation among personnel engaged in conventional diagnostic radiography at the Federal Medical Center. A comparative assessment was carried out between directly measured absorbed doses and theoretical dose estimates to evaluate the reliability of predictive models in clinical radiological practice. Twenty healthcare staff members representing six professional roles Radiographers, Radiologists, Darkroom Technicians, Records Staff, Cleaners, and Finance Personnel were monitored using thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) containing Lithium Fluoride (LiF). The dosimeters were worn for 30 days and analyzed using a Harshaw TLD reader at Ahmadu Bello University. The measured doses ranged from 430 µGy to 860 µGy, with Radiographers exhibiting the highest estimated annual effective dose of 7.44 mSv/yr, well within the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) recommended occupational limit of 20 mSv/year. Theoretical dose calculations based on the inverse square law showed a strong correlation (r = 0.90) with TLD measurements, reinforcing the model’s applicability in dose estimation. Notably, Cleaners, who had no direct radiographic duties, recorded unexpectedly elevated skin dose levels (0.275 mGy calculated vs. 0.265 mGy measured). Radiation exposure at work depends on spatial and procedural factors, making regular dose checks and predictive models important, periodic audits help improve safety standards in diagnostic practices.