Compliance with international radiation protection standards in Nigerian diagnostic radiology centres: A facility-based assessment

Background: Adequate radiation protection practices are essential for ensuring patient and staff safety in diagnostic radiology. In many low-resource settings, compliance with national and international radiation protection standards remains uncertain, raising concerns about preventable radiation exposure. This study assessed the level of compliance with radiation protection guidelines across selected diagnostic radiology centers in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional facility-based assessment was conducted using a structured checklist adapted from Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority standards. Six diagnostic centres coded A-F for anonymity were evaluated for structural shielding, personnel monitoring, availability of protective devices, equipment quality assurance, and implementation of radiation safety protocols. Data were analysed descriptively and presented as frequencies and percentages. Additionally, a radiation survey meter (RADOS-120 Universal Survey Meter) was used to measure exposure levels and check for shielding integrity. Results: All six centres possessed valid NNRA authorisation and conducted routine quality control, calibration, and shielding assessments. Only three facilities (50%) had a designated Radiation Safety Officer. Area dose-rate measurements were within acceptable limits in five centres (83.3%), ranging from 0.11–1.47 μSv/hr, while one centre (16.7%) recorded an elevated level of 5.53 μSv/hr. Background radiation remained consistent across facilities (0.10–0.11 μSv/hr). Personnel monitoring was adequate, with all radiographers using TLD badges, and protective devices were available. However, documentation of safety protocols and quality assurance activities was inconsistent. Conclusion: The findings indicate suboptimal compliance with international radiation protection standards among diagnostic radiology centres assessed. Strengthening regulatory oversight, improving staff training, and establishing routine quality assurance programs are essential for enhancing the radiation safety culture and safeguarding patients and healthcare workers.