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Answer to Question #6547 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"Category: Medical and Dental Equipment/Shielding — Equipment The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field: Q
I had to take my 19-month-old daughter to the hospital for blood work.
The laboratory was also used for x-ray procedures. We had to walk past
the room where they did x rays and sit in the next room. I have two
questions. Could my daughter have gotten scatter radiation from the
wall? We did walk by the room (I could see the x-ray machine). Does
the machine emit radiation when not in use? I know they did x ray one
person while we were there. I am worried that she was exposed to
radiation.
A
X-ray machines only emit radiation for the period of time in which
they are actually producing the x-ray image. States have rules in
effect that regulate the use of x-ray equipment. These regulations
typically require facilities to evaluate each x-ray installation for
need of shielding. Typically the shielding in the walls is lead and
protects individuals who either pass by the room or who are working
there a number of hours each day. In this case, the radiation dose to
you and your daughter is very low and the risk of radiation-induced
effects is nonexistent.
Answer posted on 20 June 2007. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.
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