Abstract
3096
Aim: There are many challenges in the application of radiation safety principles and practices in Nuclear Medicine. Through a 20-year career in radiation safety training, auditing, inspecting and investigating, common obstacles to implementing a Radiation Safety Program in Nuclear Medicine departments across Canada have been observed. Discussing some of these challenges can be useful to promote best practice in Radiation Safety. Materials and Methods: Years of observation, inspections, investigations, interviews and audits have revealed common problems with Radiation Safety Programs. Easy to use tools and proven methods to advance safety programs have been developed while assisting Radiation Safety Officers to build, evaluate and repair Radiation Safety Programs. Implementing an initial training program that is appropriate, interactive, engaging and well timed is imperative. Refresher training must be seen as a valuable use of time and the topics must be relevant to address areas of importance. Practice drills can be utilized in the place of refresher training to reinforce learning objectives. Creating a culture of non-blame when investigating incidents and near misses can be useful to engage the worker in the investigative process. This can reduce unreported events and aid in the information gathering process. A program can ensure each worker is engaged in the safety program by creating a venue for input, treating that input with respect, and implementing changes based on useful input. Workers observing these changes can feel empowered and validated in their personal contribution to safety.
Results: Overcoming common challenges and maintaining an effective radiation safety program can ensure:  A safer environment for worker, patients and the public,  Increased adherence to established policies and procedures,  Cost reductions,  Increased efficiency, and  Regulatory compliance.
Conclusions: Sharing many common challenges and effective solutions to the implementation of a radiation safety program in Nuclear Medicine can help many departments promote best practice. Discussing these obstacles is an effective way to enhance the safety culture within the Nuclear Medicine community.