Lead Shields for Protection
Lead shields are typically used for personal protection of operators, technicians or patients in the medical industry, nuclear industry and in government and research facilities where there is a radiation exposure hazard.
Typical lead shields are of one of two types wearable lead shields such aprons and moveable lead shields which are basically lead sheets on wheels.
Wearable lead shields
These types of lead shields are often found in a medical setting such as those used in a CAT scan radiation room or in a dentist office where the lead shields offer x-ray radiation protection for the patient.
Typically the operator of x-ray and CAT scan facilities will be outfitted with a lead apron, lead thyroid shields, lead lined gloves and protective leaded eyewear nearly 100% of radiation technicians where this kind of radiation protection clothing today.
Usage of lead shields is also increasing in urological procedures, interventional radiology, pain management and orthopedic surgery. Many of these procedures involve the injection of radioactive isotopes. In addition to the surgeon wearing the type of lead shields mentioned above the isotopes are injected from a lead shielded syringe.
Lead Thyroid shields or thyroid collars are particularly important due to the tendency of preferential radiation absorption in the thyroid gland that can lead to thyroid cancer.
Movable lead Shields
These types of lead shields typically consist of a single solid lead sheet of a thickness suitable for the application. The lead is laminated between 2 Formica panels and mounted on steel braced legs with heavy duty castors.
This design allows the lead shield to be moved to the correct location to provide the maximum radiation protection.
Most moveable lead shields incorporate a lead glass window to allow the operator to view the work area safely. In addition, many movable lead shields incorporate custom lead items and fixtures that allow the operator to reach around the lead shield perform the work while still affording necessary protection from nuclear radiation.
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