Going green is not just something people do at home, it’s important to be eco-friendly in the workplace, as well. For doctors, nurses and technologists who work in hospitals and doctor’s offices, radiation protection is paramount. Now they can be environmentally friendly and stay safe at the same time. When X-ray aprons appear worn after extensive use, they can now be repaired and recovered. This is a new type of recycling.

Style

X-ray aprons are durable and protect the person wearing them from the risks of radiation. Wearing fresh and professional-looking lead aprons for radiation protection is important for public image. When worn regularly over a long period of time, their outer covering begins to fade and become threadbare. The fabric patterns may be out of style and make the person wearing them feel foolish at times. In some cases, they may have been purchased for another person and have been taken over by a new employee with drastically different tastes and styles. These aprons should be replaced or repaired and recovered. They are available in new colors and styles, often with options for embroidery and personalized designs.

Safety

When a worn or damaged x-ray apron is admittedly in need of replacement or repair, it is important to first determine whether it is still capable of blocking radiation from sources at the workplace. This can be done with both a visual examination and fluoroscopy. Once the apron owner determines that it is safe, it can be sent to a radiation protection manufacturing company for repair. If the protective material is no longer intact, the recoverable portions of the apron can be used to create other types of protective garments, such as thyroid shields, gonad shields, half aprons and basic blockers. This not only saves the company money, but saves the environment by recycling.

Repair

In keeping with the greener theme, some apron manufacturing and distribution companies now fix worn lead aprons at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

When someone chooses to have an x-ray apron repaired, they can look at a number of factors. Sometimes, the pockets may rip or the x-ray apron ties start to look ragged. The hook and loop may fray or a buckle breaks. This not only looks unprofessional, but it may compromise the wearer’s protection. An apron that does not close properly will not offer adequate protection. A pocket with a few split stitches at the top is prone to catching on equipment and door handles, creating safety hazards in the workplace.