Lead Apron Cleanliness Study
Lead aprons worn by interventional radiologists contain pathogenic organisms including MRSA and tinea species
The abstract “Lead aprons worn by interventional radiologists contain pathogenic organisms including MRSA and tinea species” aims to investigate whether lead aprons worn by hospital personnel, particularly interventional radiologists, can serve as a reservoir for pathogenic organisms, potentially contributing to nosocomial infections.
For the full study, click here.
The Findings
The study tested 21 lead aprons worn by radiology technologists, nurses, physicians, and physician assistants. It discovered colonies of Staphylococcus aureus and Tinea species (Ringworm) on 84% of the aprons. Three Staph a isolates were also confirmed methicillin-resistant (MRSA).
84% of aprons tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus and Tinea species (Ringworm)
“It’s dirty. It has sweat stains. It gets mistreated. “
Most of us have just accepted it—shared lead is part of the job. But once you really look at what’s on these garments, you start asking questions. How clean is it? Who wore it last? How safe is it for me, or for my patients?
The truth is, most lead garments are never truly deep cleaned. And that needs to change.
READY TO CLEAN THOSE LEADS?
Learn more about the Clean Those Leads campaign
Watch the Film Series
If you’ve ever wondered how clean your lead really is, these videos are for you. We brought together healthcare workers, contamination data, and a few surprises to uncover the truth.
Take Action
Swab kits, action packs, expert support—it’s all here. Time to Clean Those Leads.