  Diagnostic imaging procedure using ionizing radiation has been growing due to
its enormous benefits. However, using ionizing radiation is also associated
with harmful biological effects. Therefore it is important to take
consideration on harmful effects of ionizing radiation and have adequate
awareness on the area, in order to protect people without limiting the
benefits. In Ethiopia, the status of radiation protection practices have not
been studied previously, which remain nearly unknown especially around the
study area. Thus, in filing this gap the present study initiated to assess
status of implementation of radiation protection system. General observation,
questionnaire and dose rate measurements were used to get all necessary data
for the study. The dose rate measurements at control room (CR), waiting room
(WR) and inside X-ray room (XR) were carried out using well calibrated Thermo
FH 40 G-L10 survey meter. The results of the general observation and the
questionnaire showed poor practice of radiation protection system. The dose
rate recordings from CR and WR, when the X-ray machine being switched on or off
are within permissible allowed value at all hospitals. XR machine off
measurements at two locations are also within the range allowed value. However,
XR machine on recordings shows a high level of radiation. This causes very high
level unnecessary exposure situation for helper as a result of poor practices
of radiation protection system which intern extremely increases the population
dose. Therefore there is a great need of radiation protection agency activity
at all Hospitals. Considering this scenario we suggest continuous training
programs for radiographers; all Hospitals must full fill more modern radiation
protection monitoring equipment and should have radiation protection advisers
to monitor the radiation protection practices.
