Without TLD batches, medical students exposed to radiation
At the Grant Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals in Mumbai, the students of radiology are not provided with the thermoluminescent dosimeter(TLD)-the device which detects radiation that is also an essential protective measure for those working near radiation equipments in hospitals.
Apparently, the students of these medical colleges have been conducting X rays, sonographies and CT scans without the badges for the last three months. The badgs can measure radiation exposure which if exceeds limits could even lead to cancer for those exposed to it.
The HOD of the Radiology Department of the college, Dr Meenakshi Wahane Gajbhiye pointed the finger at AERB. But the latter’s stand is that it’s not responsible for providing the TLD badges, it being just a regulatory body.
As per Dr Sonawane, Head of Radiological safety Division, AERB, regular inspections are conducted at the hospitals to check if TLD badges are given to all students as well as employees. If it’s not in place, the first warning of a notice is given. And if the hospital chooses to ignore it, they may be asked to stop functioning.
Dr. Jignesh Thakkar, Secretary, Indian Radiological and Imaging Association said that the if the badge reports high radiation the person is sent on a leave of 2 or 3 days. Regular exposure to such rays could result in cancer or blindness, it could even affect fertility, he added.
The students, as of now live in fear of such problems.
Image credits: The Indian Express