In the past, areas where radiation was in use, such as medical facilities or dental offices as well as industrial facilities, food processing plants or research facilities, were made without windows and without the ability to see into and out of the area where the radiation was present.
Today, thanks to the availability of lead lined glass, this is no longer the case. The ability to install glass in these rooms not only adds to the aesthetics of the room, but it also increases safety for technicians and patients. The addition of glass between the patient and the technician in radiation rooms also adds to patient comfort and lowers distress and anxiety associated with x rays and imaging procedures.
There are still some common myths about x-ray glass that are important to know. This can help professionals working in medical or dental offices to provide information to patients if any questions arise.
Myth: Leaded glass cannot stop radiation.
All lead lined glass used in medical or dental facilities, as well as in research institutes and labs, must meet specific standards both with regards to radiation protection as well as lead safety protocols. The standards are extremely specific and have been extensively tested for different levels of radiation.
Myth: All lead lined glass is the same.
The choice of the x-ray glass is based on the type of equipment in use and the x-ray potential in the given environment. The thickness of the glass increases with the level of radiation, which means the amount of lead in the glass also increases to provide the necessary protection.
Myth: Lead lined glass can be mounted in standard frames.
All X-ray glass in windows must be installed with a lead frame. These frames are designed to ensure there are no gaps between the drywall or the mounting surface and the glass, which would allow radiation leaks.
With a telescopic type of frame, the entire area between the glass and the wall is completely protected, providing complete radiation shielding. Slip frames are also designed to provide full protection.
