Apparel and Glove Care and
RADsafe aprons and apparel are available in a variety of standard fits as well as custom sizes manufactured to your specifications. Care should be taken to ensure you are wearing the proper size and that all critical areas are covered fully.
All radiation protection aprons and gloves should be regularly checked and monitored for substrate integrity. Imaging Solutions recommends a minimum of one inspection annually. A great way to track and manage this process is to use our RadTrack solution described in the previous section.
Any protective apron or glove that shows holes, tears or radiation leakage must be taken out of service immediately and either repaired or destroyed.
Storage
Aprons should always be properly hung on a rack or hanger specifically designed for protective apron storage. Never fold, crease or stack an apron. Avoid sharp objects. Core material can be damaged and in certain circumstances punctures can occur rendering an apron unusable.
Gloves, due to the nature of the mold, can be stored in almost any manner without causing damage. Care should be taken to avoid sharp objects as through and through punctures will allow radiation to pass to the wearer.
Cleaning
Use only warm water and a mild detergent with a non-abrasive cloth. Never use harsh chemicals and never use commercial or machine washing or drying on aprons. Glove liners can be removed and hand washed, then hung up until dry. Replacement liners are also available at a nominal charge.
Disinfecting
NEVER use a steam autoclave as the heat will cause severe damage to the protective substrate. Aprons and gloves can be ETO gas sterilized or disinfected with RadFresh® ‘Apron Refresher’ to assist with infection control by preventing the spread of harmful bacteria.
The Ten Point Usage and Care Guide
01
Inspect
Prior to use, inspect products for damage including holes, cuts, tears, rips or undone seams.
02
Clean Regularly
Maximise product life, maintain original quality and assist infection control with regular use of a cleaner (e.g. RadFresh® Apron Refresher).
03
Annual Screening
Ensure apparel undergoes annual screening (for pinholes, cracks or fastener failures) with the result logged as pass or fail.
04
Ensure Correct Fitting
Utilise fasteners, hook-and-loop buckles or clips to ensure correctly fitted apparel that meets local standards and offers appropriate protection.
05
Specialised Hangers
Use a purpose-made metal hanger or hanger system – never fold or leave aprons or apparel lying on the floor or on furniture.
06
Check the Label
See the apparel label for lead equivalence information to ensure appropriate protection.
07
Choose Correctly
Use the best product for you – choosing the right protective material and gender / ergonomic style will ensure optimal protection.
08
Customise to your needs
Incorporate useful or convenient customisations such as length extensions or prescription eye wear.
09
Track!
Use a management system such as RadTrack® to make tracking and reporting on products easier.
10
Dispose Correctly
The correct disposal of apparel and accessories should be done safety and in accordance will relevant local standards.
