Investigation of the status of occupational radiation protection in Malawian hospitals.

Background: The main objective of this study was to explore the occupational radiation protection program in three hospitals in Malawi and discover how radiation protection measures for workers are being implemented in their radiology departments. Method: A questionnaire was administered to heads of X-ray departments for Kamuzu Central Hospital, Bwaila Hospital and Mtengo wa Nthenga Hospital to investigate occupational radiation protection practices in their departments. Results: The study discovered that hospitals lack radiation protection programs which covers a number of critical issues including quality assurance and personnel dose monitoring. Conclusion: The implementation of basic elements of occupational radiation protection in Malawian hospitals is inadequate.

Radiation dose assessment for occupationally exposed workers in Malawi.

Background: The objective of this study was to assess individual doses received by radiographers, and the scattered radiation dose rate reaching the control panel in X-ray departments of three hospitals in Malawi, in-order to compare them against the internationally recommended limits. Methods: Themoluminescent Dosimeters were issued to fifteen (15) radiographers to record their dose for a month. Dose rate measurements were recorded using survey meters. Results: Average monthly dose for workers was 0.247mSv. Average ambient dose rate values were 0.39µSv/hr for Mtengo wa Nthenga Hospital, 5.03µSv/hr for Bwaila Hospital and 4µSv/hr for Kamuzu Central Hospital. Conclusions: Dose levels are below the limits recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP).