About ORSIF

Protecting healthcare workers from the dual hazards of the fluoroscopy lab

Our Mission

ORSIF — the Occupational Radiation Safety in Interventional Fluoroscopy Foundation — exists to protect healthcare workers from the dual hazards they face every day in fluoroscopy laboratories: ionizing radiation exposure and musculoskeletal injuries from heavy protective equipment. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we provide free, evidence-based education, advocacy, and resources to ensure that every healthcare professional can finish their career healthy.

Healthcare workers viewing fluoroscopy monitors

The Problem

Healthcare workers in fluoroscopy labs face two simultaneous threats that compound over a career.

Radiation Exposure

Interventional cardiologists and other fluoroscopy professionals receive up to 10× more radiation than diagnostic radiologists. With 24 million fluoroscopy procedures performed annually in the US alone, cumulative exposure leads to a 6.1% lifetime cancer incidence — three times the rate of the general population. 85% of brain tumors in affected operators occur on the left side, consistent with radiation exposure patterns. Meanwhile, US dose limits remain 7.5× less protective than international standards recommended by the ICRP.

Musculoskeletal Injuries

Traditional lead aprons and thyroid shields weigh 15–25 pounds. Wearing them for hours daily during procedures causes chronic back pain, cervical disc disease, and career-ending orthopedic injuries. The SCAI 2023 Survey found that 59.8% of healthcare workers report orthopedic injuries — up from 49.4% in 2014 — and 20% have been forced to limit their time in the cath lab as a result.

Our Position

ORSIF advocates for systemic change to protect the healthcare workforce.

US Radiation Limits Must Align with International Standards

The US eye lens dose limit is 150 mSv/year — 7.5× higher than the ICRP recommendation of 20 mSv/year. OSHA's ionizing radiation standards haven't been updated in over 50 years. ORSIF advocates for adopting the stricter international standards to protect American workers.

Workers Must Have Access to Modern Protection Alternatives

Lightweight, non-lead protection systems and radiation-reducing technologies exist today. Every worker should have access to equipment that doesn't trade one occupational hazard for another.

Facilities Must Invest in Enhanced Protection Systems

Ceiling-suspended shields, robotic-assisted systems, and advanced dose-reduction technologies can dramatically reduce both radiation exposure and ergonomic burden. Facilities have a responsibility to invest in these systems.

Data and Transparency Drive Accountability

Real-time dosimetry, comprehensive exposure tracking, and transparent reporting are essential. Workers deserve to know their cumulative exposure and institutions must be accountable for protection standards.

No Worker Should Face Preventable Cancer or Injury

With 41% of interventional cardiologists considering quitting and a projected shortage of 8,650 cardiologists by 2037, protecting the workforce isn't just ethical — it's essential for patient care.