Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Regarding Occupational Radiation Safety Among Employees in Various Radiology Departments Across Different Hospitals In Sulaimani City

Background:Healthcare professionals working in radiology departments are exposed to ionizing radiation, which can pose significant health risks. Ensuring proper knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding radiation safety is crucial to minimize exposure risks.Objective:This study investigates the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of occupational radiation safety among physicians in Iraq, particularly radiologists exposed to X-rays.Methods:A cross-sectional study was conducted from 2022 to 2023, involving 250 physicians working in radiology departments. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, which included demographic information and KAP assessments. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. Descriptive statistics and inferential analysis were performed to determine the relationships between KAP and sociodemographic characteristics.Results:The majority of participants demonstrated moderate levels of knowledge (58.4%), attitude (64.4%), and practice (88.8%) regarding radiation safety. Significant associations were found between knowledge and factors such as alcohol consumption history, occupational experience, and the number of patients diagnosed per day (p<0.05). There were also significant relationships between age, occupational experience, hospital type, and radiation safety practices (p<0.05).Conclusions:While the overall KAP of the participants was moderate, the study highlights the need for continuous training and education to improve radiation safety standards in medical environments. Enhanced training could safeguard both healthcare professionals and patients from the potential hazards of ionizing radiation.