Concern was raised within the HSE at the end of last year about thyroid collars on radiation personal protective equipment (PPE) produced by one manufacturer, the Medical Independent (MI) has learned.
Mr Mark Brennock, HSE National Director of Communications and Public Affairs, wrote to HSE Chief Clinical Officer Dr Colm Henry on the matter on 20 December 2024. The email was released to MI through Freedom of Information law.
“The CEO wants to arrange a call tomorrow morning… to decide next steps on an issue that arose today concerning certain PPE being used by some staff while performing x-rays within the system,” according to the email.
A HSE spokesperson confirmed to MI there was an issue with radiation PPE provided to one hospital; however, they clarified the PPE “never entered into operational use”.
To ensure compliance with relevant radiation protection requirements for staff and patients, the HSE sources PPE from a range of manufacturers, according to the spokesperson.
As part of routine pre-testing and inspection of equipment prior to its introduction into use, one hospital identified “minor production issues” with a number of thyroid collars from one manufacturer.
A thyroid collar is a protective shield worn around the neck to protect the thyroid gland from exposure to radiation during medical imaging procedures.
“The hospital confirmed that this PPE was never used by any patient or staff member and the affected PPE was returned to the manufacturer,” the spokesperson said.
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