Answer to Question #11396 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

How long does scattered radiation last in an x-ray room after a diagnostic x-ray machine is switched off?

A

Scattered radiation is absorbed virtually instantaneously, so there would be no delay between turning off the x-ray machine and a return to background radiation levels. Ask the Experts Question 10114 also addressed this question.

Kent Lambert, CHP

Answer posted on 11 January 2016. The information posted on this web page is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may affect the applicability of concepts, 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. To the best of our knowledge, answers are correct at the time they are posted. Be advised that over time, requirements could change, new data could be made available, and Internet links could change, affecting the correctness of the answers. Answers are the professional opinions of the expert responding to each question; they do not necessarily represent the position of the Health Physics Society.