Occupational x-ray exposure of anaesthetists

Lithium fluoride thermoluminescent dosimeter chips were used to measure the radiation dose received by anaesthetists caused by the use of image intensification during a typical 4-week period in an orthopaedic theatre. These were used to estimate an annual dose, for comparison with dose limits, to ascertain if anaesthetists should be included in personnel monitoring services. Doses proved to be below detectable limits; hence anaesthetists are at minimal risk from occupational exposure to radiation. The orthopaedic theatre is believed to use more x-rays than other theatres, so exposure elsewhere should also be undetectable.