There is a growing request among the medical imaging community for more x-ray protective apparel options such as lighter weight aprons and lead-free alternatives. But when choosing a lead-free lightweight apron, you don't want to compromise your radiation protection. Instead, we highlight here the advantages of a high-quality, trusted lead-free lightweight x-ray apron.
Lightweight Aprons
The weight of x-ray lead aprons can cause discomfort, fatigue, or musculoskeletal issues for those who wear protection aprons for longer periods. With an increasing number of physicians and technologists who are required to wear x-ray aprons for extended periods, lightweight alloy alternatives have become a necessity.
It's important to choose the type of protection material and thickness based on the amount of radiation exposure. Even among lead aprons or lead-free aprons, there are decisions about how much protection is desired. The heaviest garments are x-ray aprons manufactured with 100% lead. However, you do have the option for a lighter apron by choosing a lightweight lead as opposed to regular, and either a thickness of 0.375mm or 0.5mm. For a much lighter radiation protection garment, you can choose a non-lead x-ray apron that is either a 0.375mm or 0.5mm thickness that provides the same level of protection from the core material.
Lead-Free Aprons
In addition to the demand for more lightweight aprons options, there is an increasing desire to move towards using more environmentally friendly materials. There are some concerns about the hazardous waste implications of lead material. If a significant amount of lead were to accumulate in the body, there are long-term adverse effects that can develop due to the toxicity levels associated with lead.
Therefore, for those wanting a lighter or lead-free apron, there are more alternative material options for x-ray lead aprons than ever before. Responding to the increased demand in the market, many manufacturers have begun offering more lead-free x-ray apparel solutions. These lead-free products have been met sometimes with skepticism, for some valid and invalid reasons.
The long-time front runner for protection against x-ray exposure has been the element lead in x-ray protection products. This is why x-ray lead aprons have been the standard by radiology personnel to minimize x-ray transmissions and to protect from unintentional exposure to harmful radiation during imaging examinations.
With cutting-edge advances in the science of radiation physics, lead-free aprons can now compete with standard x-ray lead aprons by offering the same levels of protection at a lighter weight. But how can you trust a lead-free apron is comparable to a standard lead apron? Do these aprons come at a cost to your health and safety?
Techno-Aides Lightweight Lead-Free Apron Solution
Techno-Aide's lead-alternative composite is made of the highest quality, environmentally-friendly lead-free material that has been formulated and engineered to be used for x-ray protection.
This lead-free apron material incorporates a proprietary, balanced, and patented formula of two x-ray attenuating elements, Tungsten and Antimony, to protect from primary and harmful scatter beam wavelengths. While Tungsten & Antimony can be more costly than Lead, the protective values and the lightweight nature make these elements a prime choice to use in manufacturing alternative lead-free protective garments.
Techno-Aide Lead-Free aprons are a great solution for patients and radiology personnel who prefer a lead-free x-ray apron option that provides the same level of protection as other x-ray lead aprons. They are also a great choice to help prevent back and body pain for radiology personnel who will be wearing aprons in long interventional radiology procedures. These aprons are proven to function equal to traditional leaded aprons, given their proven ability to attenuate radiation and protect at levels that are equal to lead against secondary scatter radiation.
You can find lead-free apron materials in front protection x-ray aprons and full protection x-ray aprons, but lead-free protection is found in more than just aprons. Non-lead material can be incorporated into vests, skirts, and even thyroid collars.
Finding the right lead-free x-ray apron is no simple choice. With so many brands, options, and styles, you don't want to risk your health and safety in any way. You need to purchase a lead-free x-ray apron from a company with a trusted reputation, premium products at an economic price, and superb customer service. Learn more about Techno-Aide's Quality Verification and Apron Construction. For any assistance with your protective apparel and supplies needs, please give us a call at (800) 251-2629, and we'd love to keep you safe and protected.