The recent Japanese nuclear plant accident and one of its government’s responses – the free public distribution of potassium iodide tablets to reduce the radiation damage to the thyroid – highlighted the sensitivity of this organ to radiation damage, in that case with gamma, beta and bremstrahlung x.

Like eyes, for which the ICRP is rumored to be considering lower exposure/dose limits for x-radiation, the thyroid gland is located close to the skin surface and is particularly vulnerable, compared deep-seated inner organs.

It is therefore our strong recommendation that thyroid collars/shields are worn at all times, along with protective eyewear.  The protection factor of the thyroid shields, as mm Pb lead equivalent, is important too. This protection should be at least equal to that of the ‘lead’ apron worn, and not less than 0.35 mm Pb.

Since protective eyewear is made only to a minimum 0.50 mm Pb lead equivalence protection – for good reasons – it may be a good idea to also consider this mm Pb for your thyroid shield ?  The transmission/exposure/dose is reduced by 50% by upgrading from 0.35 mm Pb to 0.50 mm Pb, and weight is not really a factor.

Stay fully protected !!

About MedAssets, Inc.
MedAssets, Inc. provides technology-enabled products and services. These solutions are designed to improve operating margin and cash flow for hospitals and health systems. The Company’s technology-enabled solutions are delivered primarily through company-hosted software, or software as a service (SaaS), supported by enterprise-wide sales, account management, implementation services and consulting. The Company operates through two segments: Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) and Spend Management (SM). In November 2010, the Company acquired The Broadlane Group.

About Lite Tech, Inc.
Lite Tech, Inc. was established in 1992 acquiring the patented Xenolite lightweight x-ray protection business and technology from DuPont (Canada). Since then, the Company has expanded rapidly and globally.  Xenolite and Xenolite Lead Free are now the most recognized and tested lightweight x-ray protection products in the world. Nearly 200,000 aprons are sold in over 24 countries. Headquartered near Philadelphia, Lite Tech is one of few fully integrated x-ray apron manufacturers. Lite Tech produces its own proprietary core/sheet materials in their Norristown, Pennsylvania plant.