Optimization of patient radiation dose through development of specifications for purchase of X-ray equipment

X-ray equipment characteristics and performance have an important influence on radiation doses to patients. In order that these factors can be taken into consideration when X-ray equipment is purchased, dose related requirements need to be included in specifications and additional dose information requested from manufacturers. Dose factors include techniques that directly reduce exposure; use of low attenuation materials; provision of flexibility in choice of exposure parameters; and availability of data for dose assessment. If a standard format can be developed, this should enable manufacturers to supply this information. Specifications for different types of X-ray equipment and lists of dose information to be requested from manufacturers have been prepared by the Scottish Radiation Protection Advisers' Group for use in hospitals throughout Scotland. It is hoped that this will allow patient dose to be taken into account when X-ray equipment is purchased.