pregnancy and whether they needed to change their job . In the majority of cases the answer was no , because they were not working in areas where there were significant dose rates . The biggest risk was from an inhalation of radioactive material following an incident , such as a glove failure on a glove box .
Any X-rays or imaging on the individual during pregnancy will need to be considered . In general , X-rays on extremities , head , neck and chest are acceptable at any time , as the X-ray beam can be well collimated , and most of the foetal dose will be from scattered radiation within the body .
However , if working in hospitals in nuclear medicine departments , the individual should consider whether they need to restrict their exposure by keeping well away from patients undergoing treatment or diagnostic imaging , such as PET scans .
Shielding is normally provided but there is no reason why a pregnant employee should be involved with the patient . The employer will need to address this .
Work with unsealed sources , such as in a university or pharmaceutical laboratory , may have to cease depending on the quantities and isotope . In particular , work with isotopes such as phosphorus-32 , phosphorus-33 , calcium-45 , calcium-47 and strontium-90 are likely to give higher doses to the foetus than to the mother .
There are radiation-related risks throughout pregnancy that depend on the stage of pregnancy and the foetal absorbed dose . As previously stated , radiation risks are most significant during organogenesis and the early foetal period , less in the second trimester and least in the third trimester . When diagnostic imaging is required , alternative techniques not involving ionising radiations , such as MRI scans , may need to be considered . The physician will need to counsel the patient and determine whether the dose is justified .
Further information : Working safely with ionising radiation ; Guidelines for expectant or breastfeeding mothers , INDG334 ( rev1 ), January 2015
Protection of Pregnant Patients during Diagnostic Medical Exposures to Ionising Radiation . Advice from the Health Protection Agency , The Royal College of Radiologists and The College of Radiographers . RCE-9 Documents of the Health Protection Agency , Radiation , Chemical and Environmental Hazards , March 2009
Annals of the ICRP , Publication 103 . The 2007 Recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection
Maureen at the IAEA HQ in Vienna
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