European Initiative Established for Safe X-Ray Use

A European healthcare initiative has been established to increase awareness of radiation in medical imaging across Europe. The focus of the campaign includes safety procedures, diagnostic reference levels for patient dose, and compliance with the ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) principle.

ALARA refers to a maximum reduction of the X-ray dose to patients while still maintaining image quality. Unfors RaySafe (previously Unfors Instruments; Billdal, Sweden), a developer of measuring devices for quality assurance of diagnostic X-ray equipment, is a supporting partner of the European Society of Radiology (ESR; Vienna, Austria) EuroSafe Imaging Campaign.

“Since the company was founded in 1994, Unfors RaySafe has dedicated itself to helping people avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation. Our entire product portfolio is designed to establish a better radiation safety culture in places where technicians, medical staff, and patients come into contact with X-rays,” explained Magnus Kristoferson, CEO of Unfors RaySafe, the Swedish manufacturer’s engagement. “Medical use of X-rays has continued to increase over the years and so, too, has concern about its impact on people’s health.” According to data from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), 3.6 billion diagnostic X-ray exams are performed across worldwide yearly.

The EuroSafe Imaging Campaign officially began at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR), held in March 2014 in Vienna, Austria. In addition to a poster exhibition, the project also consisted of political initiatives, specialist seminars and a certifying program for radiologic equipment. As a “Friend of EuroSafe Imaging” companies, doctors, clinics, and individuals can contribute to the campaign.

Unfors RaySafe provides a solution for the X-ray room consisting of devices for quality assurance and service of diagnostic X-ray systems, real-time dose monitoring for medical staff, and a patient dose-tracking software. All of the solutions combine user-friendliness with cutting-edge technology and are based on the company’s goal to help technicians, medical staff and patients avoid unnecessary radiation exposure. Unfors RaySafe is fully owned by Fluke Biomedical since 2014.

Related Links:
EuroSafe Imaging Campaign
Unfors RaySafe
European Society of Radiology