The Radiation Safety Special Interest Group is a truly multidisciplinary group as radiologists, radiographers and scientists all have both an interest in patient protection and also a radiation protection self-interest!
We respond to policy and guidance consultations from governments and their agencies and communicate concerns about issues to those bodies from our members. We represent the BIR on various projects and committees where radiation protection is an issue (e.g. NRES, IEC, DH Working Group on EU Directive revision).
BIR-IPEM STANDARDS COMMITTEE OVERSIGHT GROUP (SCOG)
The BIR and IPEM have joined forces to promote a ‘UK voice’ during the development of key international standards that apply to medical imaging. The aim of SCOG is to determine where representation is needed and to seek and support volunteers in participating in standards committee meetings.
The current scope includes IEC maintenance groups MT30 CT equipment (e.g. standard 60601-2-44); MT37 Radiography and Radioscopy Equipment (e.g. standards 60601-1-3 and 60601-2-54); MT41 Interventional Equipment (e.g. standard 60601-2-43) and the DICOM WG-28 Physics Group.
In addition, we have representation on two IEC Project Groups: Spectral CT and Acceptance and Constancy Testing for X-ray Equipment (61223-3-8)
The scope of this group is being expanded to cover nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, ultrasound and MRI as the need arises.
This poster series is designed to serve as a quick-reference guide in operating theatres, offering clear, visual instructions on the suggested, optimal placement of X-ray protection screens. Each poster addresses specific procedural environments where X-rays are frequently used, ensuring that staff have easy access to tailored guidance aimed at reducing radiation exposure. The collection spans a range of procedures, including:
∙ Cardiac interventions: Radial Access
∙ Vascular interventions: Femoral Access
∙ Orthopaedic procedures: Upper and lower limb surgeries
∙ Urological procedures: Retrograde imaging techniques
By standardising the placement of protective screens across different operating scenarios, the series aims to enhance safety practices, and ultimately contribute to a safer working environment in the theatre.
The Diagnostic Radiological Equipment Installation and Replacement Guide is a special check list, invaluable for anyone installing new radiological equipment and has been developed and designed by the BIR Radiation Safety Special Interest Group. Download here or access via the BIR Sharing Platform.
BIR Safety Campaign
The BIR Safety Campaign communicates safety advice and recommendations and helps to spread the word about safety issues within our community to ensure the safety and wellbeing of patients and staff.
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