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Evaluation of potential exposure to X-ray radiation.

Authors
Achutan-C; Mueller-C
Source
Int J Occup Environ Health 2009 Apr; 15(2):229
Link
http://dx.doi.org/10.1179/oeh.2009.15.2.229
NIOSHTIC No.
20035660
Abstract
The HHE Program responded to an employee and management request at twelve airports through­out the United States to investigate employees' potential exposure to x­radiation during baggage screen­ing. HHE Program investigators observed baggage screening prac­tices and took x-radiation measure­ments at explosive detection system (EDS) machines in airports. Inves­tigators also asked screeners at some airports to wear personal monitoring devices to measure their exposure to x-radiation. The investigators found that baggage screeners were using unsafe work practices and that some of the EDS machines were not well-main­tained. HHE Program investigators also found that most EDS machines emitted low levels of x-radiation, and a few exceeded the Food and Drug Administration's limits. Mea­surements showed that there were low doses of x-radiation among bag­gage screeners in most airports. Investigators recommended that x­radiation safety programs be devel­oped and that regular training on x-radiation and safe work practices be provided to baggage screeners. HHE Program investigators also recommended improved mainte­nance of equipment and that managers work with manufacturers to improve the design of EDS machines. Additionally, investigators recommended that health and safety communication between managers and employees be improved at each airport. The final report is available at <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2003-0206-3067.pdf"target="_blank">https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/hhe/reports/pdfs/2003-0206-3067.pdf</a>.
Keywords
Region-3; X-ray-equipment; X-ray-absorption; Ionizing-radiation; Radiation-exposure; Airport-personnel; Work-practices; Humans; Author Keywords: Other Airport Operations; x-rays; ionizing radiation; low-level radiation exposure; airport screeners; explosive detection systems
CODEN
IOEHFU
Publication Date
20090401
Document Type
Abstract
Fiscal Year
2009
Issue of Publication
2
ISSN
1077-3525
NIOSH Division
DSHEFS
SIC Code
NAICS-488119
Source Name
International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health
State
DC; OH
Page last reviewed: May 5, 2020
Content source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Education and Information Division