Abstract
Background: Radiology plays a pivotal role as it facilitates the diagnosis and
management of diseases through the visualisation and interpretation of images of the
internal structures of the body. This department comprises various professionals
whose critical work exposes them to ionising radiation, posing health risks categorized
as stochastic and deterministic effects. Of particular concern are reproductive health
risks associated with this exposure, as they may lead to infertility, damage to egg and
sperm cells, miscarriage, and congenital anomalies in the offspring. Preventing these
risks requires effective workplace safety measures and strict adherence to radiation
safety guidelines. The aim of this study was therefore to explore workplace safety
measures intended for mitigating reproductive health risks among healthcare workers
in radiology departments of selected hospitals in Gaborone, Botswana.
Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional research design was employed.
Purposive sampling was used to recruit participants. The study was conducted across
all six hospitals in Gaborone and the total population of healthcare workers within
these departments was 72, of which 51 consented to participate, resulting in a
response rate of 71%. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires and
it was analysed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 29.
Inferential statistical methods, including Fisher’s Exact Test and Pearson correlation,
were also used to examine associations between variables. Statistical significance
was determined using p-values, with 0.05 considered significant.
Results: Training on reproductive health and safety was reported as infrequent by
most respondents (Mean = 3.37; SD = 0.894). High compliance was observed for the
usage of dosimeter controls (84.3%), lead aprons (88.2%), and appropriate shielding
(94.1%). Displayed safety protocols were confirmed by 88.2% of respondents, while
92.8% reported the availability of radiation safety equipment and procedures to reduce
reproductive health risks. 92.2% acknowledged the presence of an RSO, and 98.0%
observed radiation warning signage, with 90.2% noting that these signs were also
presented in the local language. However, only 74.5% indicated the existence of an
emergency response plan.
Conclusion and Recommendations: Workplace safety measures aimed at
addressing reproductive health risks are currently being implemented in select
hospitals in Gaborone. However, there are opportunities for improvement such as
conducting regular safety training, creating a comprehensive emergency response
plan and establishing clear written guidelines for emergency situations.