Radiation protection and safety practices among medical imaging professionals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Radiation exposure in medical imaging poses a potential health risk when safety protocols are inadequately practised. Despite awareness of radiation hazards, compliance with radiation protection measures among medical imaging professionals remains inconsistent across many healthcare settings. Purpose: The study aimed to assess radiation protection and safety practices among medical imaging professionals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and to identify gaps in their knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, adherence and enabling environmental factors influencing these practices. Study setting: The study was conducted in four selected healthcare facilities in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, among radiological technologists and radiographers. Method: A quantitative, descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed. Data were collected through an electronic questionnaire completed by 82 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including a Pearson correlation analysis, were conducted. Results: The study population consisted mainly of Radiologic Technologists (RTs) (91.50%), of whom 64.6% were male, and 86.6% held a bachelor’s degree. Knowledge of core radiation protection principles was high (74-85%, p < 0.001), but gaps persisted in operational, regulatory and equipment-related knowledge domains. Attitude was generally positive; however, prioritising efficiency over safety practices (47.8%) was reported among respondents. Self-reported practices were inconsistent, with low adherence to shielding use, dose monitoring, and standardised radiation safety protocols. High workload (90%), limited resources (76.8%), inadequate training (72%), and insufficient regulatory guidance (54.9) were key barriers. Practice demonstrated a moderate correlation with attitude (r = 0.472, p < 0.01), perception (r = 0.514, p < 0.01) and enabling environment (r = 0.515, p < 0.01) but not with knowledge (r = 0.119, p = 0.287). Discussion: Generally, respondents demonstrated adequate knowledge and positive attitudes. However, deficiencies were observed in safety practices, including inconsistent adherence to shielding equipment, limited implementation of ALARA principles, and inadequate strategies to reduce repeat exposures. Although most respondents perceived their work as hazardous, this perception did not consistently translate into protective practices. High workload, limited resources, and insufficient training emerged as major barriers. Correlation analysis further revealed that attitude, perception and environmental factors had a stronger influence than knowledge alone. Conclusion: Although awareness and attitude were favourable, the translation into consistent safety practices remains limited. Furthermore, environmental constraints and behavioural factors significantly influenced radiation protection practices, highlighting the need for stronger institutional support, regular training, and improved radiation safety culture.