A DECADE of national reporting data, presented at the European Congress of Radiology 2026, has provided new insight into radiation safety in diagnostic imaging. The research shows that systematic monitoring of X-ray deviations can strengthen safety culture and reduce serious incidents.
Strengthening Radiation Safety Through Systematic Reporting
Ensuring strong radiation safety practices is a central priority in radiology, particularly as diagnostic imaging continues to expand across healthcare systems. In Finland, radiation safety deviations occurring during healthcare X-ray examinations must be reported to the Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK).
The reporting system categorises incidents into significant deviations that must be reported immediately and less significant deviations that are submitted annually. These reports are considered an important indicator of safety culture because they allow institutions to monitor errors, identify recurring issues, and improve clinical practice.
Researchers presenting at ECR 2026 analysed deviation reports submitted to STUK between 2015 and 2024 to better understand trends in radiation safety incidents within Finnish healthcare imaging services. The goal was to examine the frequency, causes, and outcomes of reported events and evaluate how reporting contributes to safety improvements.
Analysis of Radiation Safety Deviations in Finland
The analysis found that since 2015 approximately 270 significant and 12,650 less significant radiation safety deviations have been reported in Finnish healthcare X-ray practices. Importantly, no severe radiation safety incidents have been reported since systematic reporting was introduced.
Exposure levels associated with deviations remained within relatively low ranges. Patient exposures resulting from deviations remained below 100 mSv, occupational exposures remained below 1 mSv, and unintended foetal exposures remained below 40 mGy.
The most frequently reported deviation involved failed examinations that required repetition. These incidents were typically linked to technical problems or human error during imaging procedures. Researchers noted that anonymised case studies derived from these reports are often used as educational tools in professional radiation safety training programmes.
Future Improvements in Radiation Safety Monitoring
The findings suggest that structured reporting systems can play a crucial role in maintaining high standards of radiation safety in clinical imaging. By systematically documenting incidents and analysing trends, healthcare providers can identify weaknesses in imaging workflows and implement targeted improvements.
Beginning in 2025, reporting requirements in Finland will expand to include documentation of preventive actions taken in response to each type of deviation. Researchers believe this change will further strengthen proactive safety management within radiology departments.
Although not all deviations are reported, the results demonstrate that consistent monitoring can support continuous learning and safer imaging practices. Experts suggest that similar reporting frameworks could help improve radiation safety culture in radiology systems internationally.
Reference
Hietamies T et al. Radiation safety deviation reporting of X-ray practices in Finland: analysis of the last 10 years. ECR, 4-8 March, 2026.
Featured image: DEWI on Adobe Stock
