IMPROVEMENT IN RADIATION PROTECTION INFRASTRUCTURE FOR X-RAY FACILITIES IN BANGLADESH: THE ROLE OF THE EXECUTIVE REGULATORY AUTHORITY

Abstract

The national regulatory body in the state regulates the source of ionizing radiation, to optimize exposure for occupational radiation workers and public. The Bangladesh Atomic Energy Regulatory Authority covers all radiological regulatory aspects of ionizing radiation, such as diagnostic X-ray facilities for all practices and intervention requirements. The study presents an assessment and analyses the degree of technical radiation protection requirements and the status of improvement in the national regulatory standards for 230 different facilities in the four particular districts in Bangladesh. The methods used included comprehensive on-site inspections, visual assessments of equipment, operational observations, staff interviews, and technical evaluations. Safety system tests were conducted, and compliance records, licensing, and training programs were reviewed. The main objective is to ensure all the regulatory requirements are being fulfilled by analyzing data on radiation protection matters. In the cases of public and radiation workers, approximately 77% and 56% of dose rates in the examined facilities, respectively, were following the radiological protection technical regulation. However, significant progress has been observed in the facilities in the last few years since the authority initiated the regulatory program.