Radiation Risks of Employees During the Production and Use of Radiopharmaceuticals in Medicine

Abstract

The study focuses on occupational radiation risks among 40 specialists working in nuclear medicine: 23 employees involved in the production of radiopharmaceuticals and 17 staff members of radioisotope departments at medical centers. Depending on their professional responsibilities, the participants were classified as process engineers, production laboratory assistants, incoming quality control laboratory assistants, dosimetrists, senior engineers, medical technicians, radiologists, or nurses. The assessment identified the main sources and pathways of potential occupational exposure. External exposure may occur during the handling of unsealed radioactive sources and during contact with patients following radiopharmaceutical administration. Internal exposure may result from the intake of radionuclides associated with radioactive contamination of workplace air, working surfaces, or personal protective equipment. The analysis was performed using data from the Radiological Research Laboratory of the Center for the Development of Professional Qualifications of Medical Workers. The findings emphasize that radiation safety in the production and clinical application of radiopharmaceuticals requires a comprehensive system of protective measures, including optimized work procedures, appropriate shielding, remote handling techniques, individual dosimetric monitoring, workplace contamination control, proper use of personal protective equipment, and regular staff training. Effective implementation of these measures can reduce occupational radiation risks while preserving the diagnostic and therapeutic benefits of nuclear medicine.