Perception of radiographers’ awareness and management of occupational biological hazards

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the perception of radiographers’ awareness and preparedness in managing occupational biological hazards. The study also includes the occupational biohazards which radiographers perceive as most commonly encountered during their daily practices and provides an outline of the protective measures used in the local hospital to protect from these hazards. Methodology: This research design of this study adopted a quantitative, non-experimental, cross-sectional approach. The data collection tool included a structured 10-minute online staff questionnaire and a total of 71 participants took part in this study. All radiographers in Malta were invited to participate in this study through the Radiotherapy and Medical Imaging departments of the main hospital in Malta together with the Society of Medical Radiographers Malta (SRM). Results: From a list of 16 infective agents, only 8 occupational biohazards were correctly identified by the majority of participants. However, in this study radiographers showed that they frequently use the appropriate protective measures to manage the different occupational biohazards. The majority of the participants agreed that there is the need for improvement with regards to the management of occupational biological hazards. Conclusions and Recommendations: The lack of awareness of the correct mode of transmission of the most common occupational biological hazards can have an impact on radiographers’ and patient’s safety. Nonetheless, participants agree that improvement in the management of occupational biological hazards is necessary, which can be led by radiographers or management.