People working in imaging facilities in the healthcare industry, including in dental offices, are exposed to radiation as part of their daily work. Choosing the correct X ray lead shields, including wearable items and protective structures in the rooms to prevent exposure to scatter radiation is critical to their health and safety. There are many different options when it comes to X ray lead shields for use in any type of medical or dental office. The most protective option is lead, which is used in both aprons and other personal protective equipment as well as in the construction of booths or walls to protect the medical and dental staff from constant exposure. It is also possible to use composite core types of wearable shielding materials, which are made from lead and a mixture of other materials. There are also lead-free options, but these are usually only used with a low level of radiation, typically under 130 kVp. Mobility Considerations Pure lead types of wearable X ray lead shields are heavier than the composite core and lead-free options, but it also provides the best possible protection. Often, to overcome the weight of this type of shielding, booths or walls are used to shield the technician during the imaging process. The walls or booths can be made of lead-lined gypsum or plywood, or even constructed with lead sheet or plate. This provides full protection for the staff while also eliminating the need for the additional aprons and protective gear. With lead-lined glass and window frames, the entire area can be fully protected, eliminating exposure to scatter radiation produced by X ray equipment. Patients can be protected using lead aprons and blankets, with the specific types of protection dictated by the type of radiation in... 
While the use of lead may be decreasing over time as new materials become more cost effective and safer to use, there is still a demand for lead as shielding for radioactivity, in plumbing and roofing, as well as in ballast and counterweight production. When powder coated or painted, lead can be extremely safe to use, and its density, structure, and workability with makes it critical in many industries. For many types of applications, including creating custom ballasts, lead casting operations, and in the manufacturing of ammunition, lead bar is an ideal option. Finding lead bar suppliers in the United States is becoming increasingly difficult. This has created a market for imported lead bar and other lead products, but there are significant quality control issues and purity concerns with this type of supply. Choosing a top American company completing their own manufacturer services for lead in any form will always ensure the purity required. Tips For Finding US Based Suppliers There are still well-known, industry-leading lead bar suppliers located in the United States. These companies have multiple locations across the country, which is a benefit to buyers as orders can be shipped from the nearest warehouse, decreasing the freight costs on orders. When reviewing the US-based lead bar suppliers, always consider the on-hand inventory they offer and the ability to create custom alloys if required. This involves a slightly longer turnaround time for orders, but for most orders, this is extremely short, particularly with the nationally recognized companies. While a company may originally start searching for a supplier for lead bars, if other types of lead are used, it is a good idea to combine all orders with one supplier. The larger the company, the more capable they are in supplying bars, ingots, casting and even extruded lead parts and components made to your... 
In medical and dental offices, in research and testing facilities and in different industrial areas, providing protection from radiation is critical for the health of both employees and visitors. Design Considerations For these types of applications, lead lined plywood is a highly beneficial type of construction material. It can be designed to meet the specific needs for the construction project, or it can be sold in the standard four by eight foot sheets. Different thicknesses of plywood and lead sheet will accommodate the type of radiation in use. The thicker the lead sheet and plywood the heavier the material will be, which needs to be considered in room design and support. The sheeting on the back of the plywood has to be unpierced to provide full radiation protection. It attaches to the metal studs of the wall with a batten strip for a solid, secure and complete level of protection. If there is a need to penetrate the lead sheet, it will be essential to provide additional lead shielding to eliminate any potential areas where radiation leaks could occur. Construction Considerations When completing cutouts, lead lined plywood still makes an excellent choice. Additionally, lead sheeting can be used to overlap the lead lining of the plywood and sheeting, creating a complete and unpenetrated surface. Lead beads can also be used to fill in gaps or areas where there may be a space between the lead lined plywood and any other surface. It is important to use protective clothing and all safety measures when working with any lead products. Basic safety clothing, shoes and procedures should always be in place. This includes signs indicating that lead products are in use must be posted, and only trained individuals should handle, work with or remove debris of any lead lined...
