Occupational radiation exposure among veterinary workers in Metro Manila small animal radiography: Trends across roles and facility types

Purpose: Occupational radiation exposure in veterinary radiography remains poorly documented in the Philippines despite the widespread use of diagnostic x-ray equipment in small animal practice. This study quantified the whole-body effective dose (Hp(10)) received by veterinary personnel during routine radiographic procedures and examined exposure trends across occupational roles and facility types in Metro Manila. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional design was conducted involving 30 veterinary workers from 10 small-animal clinics. Whole-body dose was measured over a two-month period using optically-stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) worn at the chest level. Facility infrastructure and radiation safety compliance were evaluated using a structured checklist based on national regulations and international radiation protection guidance, while surveys documented work practices, occupational roles, and protective behaviors. Results: The mean Hp(10) was 0.17 mSv (SD=0.23 mSv), well below the bi-monthly regulatory limit of 3.34 mSv, although variability was observed (maximum=0.8 mSv). Role-based trends showed that personnel performing both machine operation and animal restraint recorded the highest mean dose (0.27 mSv), followed by restrainers (0.14 mSv), while operators recorded the lowest mean dose (0.08 mSv). Restrainers also performed the highest number of exposures (mean=84) and reported the highest PPE usage scores. Facility-level analysis demonstrated variability in exposure and compliance: charity hospitals recorded the highest mean dose (0.53 mSv) and exposure frequency (mean=1011), while teaching hospitals showed negligible measurable dose despite relatively high workload. Private hospitals demonstrated moderate doses (0.13 mSv) with higher PPE compliance, whereas private surgical clinics showed moderate doses (0.18 mSv) but lower compliance scores. Conclusion: Although occupational doses remained within regulatory limits, measurable differences across roles and facility types were evident. Workers involved in manual restraint and those in lower-compliance facilities exhibited higher exposure patterns. These findings establish the first empirical baseline of occupational radiation exposure in Philippine veterinary radiography and highlight the need for improved compliance, consistent PPE use, and strengthened radiation safety oversight.