What is the lead thickness requirement for equipment operating at 100 kVp or less?

The lead thickness requirement for equipment operating at 100 kVp or less is 0.25 mm. This specification is based on safety standards designed to protect both patients and healthcare workers from unnecessary exposure to radiation.

In facilities where such equipment is used, an understanding of the appropriate shielding measures is essential for minimizing radiation dose. The recommendation for 0.25 mm of lead reflects a careful balance between ensuring effective radiation protection while also being practical for the design and function of the equipment.

This thickness is adequate to attenuate the higher-energy photons emitted at this voltage, reducing the risk of scatter radiation. As radiation energy increases, so too does the need for increased shielding, which is why lower thicknesses are permitted for equipment that operates at lower kilovoltages (kVp).