Safety of handling of radioactive isotopes in some of Alexandria medical centres

ABSTRACT

The isotopic method represents a powerful tool for the solution of numerous problems in biology, physiology, chemistry, physics and other sciences. It is true that the use of isotopes as a scientific tool is not new, but it is only in recent years that isotopes became available in such variety and quantity as to make their use more widespread. Handling of such radioactive isotope sources, therapeutic or diagnostic, and their waste management presents one of the serious environmental health problems, especially in developing countries. The work aimed to evaluate the safety of handling of radioactive isotopes in five isotope therapeutic units [Cobalt-60 and Cesium-137] and seven radioactive isotope diagnostic laboratories [Iodine-131, Iodine-125, Thallium-201, C-14] which covers most of radioactive medical and research centers in Alexandria. The data of radioactive isotope doses was measured by Portable Geiger meter and included different handling positions, storing places, and radioactive waste management. The study revealed good and safe handling conditions in some of the heavy isotope units [3,4 and 5], but units [1 and 2] need repair and maintainance which has already started. Unit [5], also, needs more leaded isolation on the door corners to decrease the dose outside the room. Concerning diagnostic laboratories of unsealed sources, the results indicated a permissible level of doses in most laboratories, which means highly safe handling conditions except the therapeutic glands' laboratory at treatment position by Iodine-131 to patients. It could be concluded that the application of radiation protection programme through Atomic Energy Authority is taking good care especially in unsealed isotope laboratories. When dealing with acute impacts of radioactive hazards, it is important to avoid shocks or accidents by the precautionary principle of surveillance through the safe handling and management of such materials.It is desirable to keep the average individual exposure in the population as low as oossible to avoid late and genetic effects of radiation