Which type of personal protective equipment is commonly used to shield from radiation?

Lead aprons are commonly used as personal protective equipment to shield against radiation due to their effective density and atomic number, which allow them to absorb and attenuate ionizing radiation, such as X-rays and gamma rays. When individuals are exposed to radiation in medical and dental settings, or during certain industrial applications, lead aprons provide a barrier that significantly reduces radiation exposure to sensitive organs, particularly the reproductive organs and thyroid.

This protective measure is essential in settings where radiation is present to avoid the cumulative effects of radiation exposure, which can lead to long-term health risks, including cancer. The use of lead aprons is widely standardized and recognized as a critical component in radiation safety protocols, ensuring that healthcare workers and patients are protected during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures involving radiation.

Other types of personal protective equipment, while valuable in different contexts, do not provide the same level of protection from radiation.