Radiologic Technologist Working Conditions

Radiologic technologists held about 197,000 jobs in 2014. The industries that employed the most radiologic technologists in 2014 were as follows:

Like other healthcare workers, working conditions for radiologic technologists include exposure to infectious diseases, long periods of standing and some physical demands to lift or turn patients who are disabled.

Although working conditions for this occupation include radiation hazards, risks are minimized by the use of protective lead aprons, gloves, and other shielding devices, and by instruments that monitor exposure to radiation. For example, radiologic technologists wear badges measuring radiation levels in the radiation area, and detailed records are kept on their cumulative lifetime dose.

Most radiologic technologists work full time. Because imaging is needed in emergency situations, working conditions for some radiologic technologists include evening and weekend hours, or being on call.

Source: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition