What is Lead Shielding and Why is it Required?
Lead shielding is a crucial component in the construction of medical facilities that use diagnostic imaging or radiation-emitting equipment—such as X-ray, CT, fluoroscopy, and nuclear medicine. Its primary purpose is to protect patients, staff, and the public from unnecessary exposure to ionising radiation by containing the radiation within controlled zones.
In Victoria, as in the rest of Australia, lead shielding is not just good practice—it’s a legal requirement. The Radiation Act 2005 (VIC) and associated Radiation Regulations 2017 govern the safe use of radiation, with specific design and shielding guidelines enforced by ARPANSA (Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency) and DHHS Victoria.
Where is Lead Shielding Used?
Shielding is integrated into various parts of a healthcare facility, depending on the modality and intensity of radiation involved. Typical areas include:
- X-ray and CT rooms
- Fluoroscopy suites
- PET and nuclear medicine rooms
- Mammography and dental imaging rooms
- Control rooms (for technician protection)
Shielding materials can include lead-lined plasterboard, lead sheet, lead doors, glass, and leaded vinyl, depending on the application and layout of the room.
Melbourne’s Compliance Standards for Lead Shielding
When constructing or renovating a medical clinic in Melbourne, you must:
- Obtain a shielding design report from a licensed Radiation Physicist.
- Comply with ARPANSA Code of Practice for radiation protection in medical uses of ionising radiation.
- Install shielding as per specifications, ensuring all penetrations (e.g. for cables, ducts) are also shielded.
- Obtain a compliance certificate, such as a Reg 126 report, confirming shielding performance meets design specifications before equipment use.
- Maintain shielding integrity over time, especially during clinic modifications or upgrades.
Any errors in shielding installation can delay your clinic’s licence approval, increase costs, and create safety risks.
How SoulMed Simplifies Lead Shielding for Your Medical Fitout
At SoulMed, we understand the critical nature of radiation compliance and lead shielding. Our team has successfully delivered shielding-compliant fitouts for radiology clinics, dental rooms, and advanced imaging centres across Melbourne and Victoria.
Here’s how we make it seamless:
End-to-End Coordination:
We liaise directly with your Radiation Consultant, Structural Engineer, and Radiation Physicist to ensure shielding requirements are implemented from the ground up—eliminating guesswork and delays.
Shielding Built into Design:
From the early stages of floor planning, we design your walls, ceilings, and service penetrations with shielding in mind—so you don’t pay extra for retrofits later.
Certified Trades & Materials:
We source and install certified lead materials and use experienced contractors familiar with ARPANSA and DHHS requirements.
Reg 126 Support & Documentation:
We assist in coordinating the inspection and documentation required for a Reg 126 certificate, helping to ensure your site is approved without hiccups.
Experience Across Modalities:
Whether you’re building a new radiology practice, adding a dental X-ray room, or upgrading an existing medical space, SoulMed brings tailored experience to every type of fitout.
Common Mistakes We Help You Avoid
Failing to get shielding designs pre-approved
Using incorrect lead thickness or unshielded ductwork
Overlooking shielding for doors, glass, or control rooms
Delayed compliance inspections that push back clinic opening
We’ve seen it all—and we’ve fixed it all. When you partner with SoulMed, we help you get it right the first time.
Planning a Medical Fitout in Melbourne?
If your clinic will use any form of radiation, shielding isn’t optional—it’s essential. Let SoulMed ensure your space is safe, compliant, and built for smooth operation from day one.
Contact us today to discuss your project or get a preliminary estimate on shielding requirements.
We’re here to protect your project—just like shielding protects your people.
