Modern Radiation Policy Alliance

Safety

Why ERPS?

ERPS (Enhanced Radiation Protection Systems) solutions — such as the Protego Shield, Rampart M1128, and EggNest — provide operator protection equivalent to or exceeding traditional lead aprons.They are:*Clinically validated in peer-reviewed studies
*Safer for long-term operator health
*Already in use at leading institutions nationwideThese systems represent a clear advancement in occupational safety — and regulatory frameworks should catch up and allow their use

injuries

Why not lead?

Lead aprons, long considered the standard for radiation protection in interventional procedures, pose a significant and well-documented health risk to medical personnel. Worn for hours at a time, often multiple days per week, these aprons place chronic strain on the spine, shoulders, hips, and knees — leading to high rates of musculoskeletal injury among interventional cardiologists, radiologists, and technologists. Studies have linked prolonged use to herniated discs, joint degeneration, and even early retirement due to chronic pain or disability. While effective at blocking scatter radiation, lead aprons represent an outdated solution to a modern problem — one that newer, non-wearable shielding systems can now solve without compromising safety.

Innovation

Who allows it?

Several states have already updated their regulations or guidance to allow the use of non-wearable Enhanced Radiation Protection Systems (ERPS) in place of traditional lead aprons during fluoroscopic procedures. Michigan, Colorado, and Florida have each adopted pathways that permit facility-based approval of ERPS when supported by adequate documentation and oversight. These policy changes reflect a growing consensus that modern shielding technologies can offer equal or superior protection while reducing long-term occupational harm to healthcare providers.

The Alliance

Physician led

The American College of Cardiology - Illinois chapter has launched the Alliance to respectfully request the Illinois Emergency Management Agency - Homeland Security Department update their regulations to permit the use of ERPS. We welcome additional endorsers and organizations to join us in this effort to protect our members from long-term injury from wearing heavy lead aprons for hours a day.

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