Knowledge Level and Radiation Protection Practices Among Radiographers in Northern Ghana

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> Introduction Radiation protection is essential in radiography due to the potential deterministic and stochastic effects of ionising radiation. Radiographers’ adherence to radiation protection practices can help reduce such risks. The study assessed radiographers’ knowledge and practices, identified barriers to adherence and explored ways to enhance radiation safety practices in Northern Ghana. Methods A cross-sectional study using consecutive sampling was conducted among 38 radiographers in Northern Ghana. Data were collected using a self-administered semi-structured questionnaire and analysed using IBM SPSS (version 25). Descriptive statistics were presented as means and standard deviations for continuous data and frequencies and percentages for categorical data. Group differences were assessed using independent sample t-test and one-way ANOVA with statistical significance set at P &lt; 0.05. Results Most participants (n = 19, 63.2%) received radiation safety training within the past three years. The mean personnel radiation protection score was high (13.47 ± 1.64). However, knowledge score on ALARA and deterministic/stochastic effects concept was high (13.47 ± 1.64), misconceptions about radiation effects persisted. A statistically significant relationship between years of experience and adherence to environmental protection practices (p = 0.002) was found. Although most radiographers (n = 37, 97.4%) had radiation protection equipment, (n = 7, 18.4%) reported not using the equipment. Conclusion Radiographers had satisfactory knowledge regarding radiation protection, but adherence was inconsistent. Equipment deficiencies hampered radiation safety compliance and practical knowledge application. A multifaceted approach is required to eliminate the knowledge-practice gap, including frequent practical training, supervision and providing equipment to aid compliance.