Development of a Web-Based Radiation Survey Tool for Storing and Comparing Historical Radiation Levels Around Linac, CT, and Brachytherapy Units
Abstract
Purpose
This project aimed to digitize the Radiation Survey used to collect annual measurements of background and operational radiation levels around LINAC bunkers, CT Sim units, and a brachytherapy unit at the Carlo Fidani Regional Cancer Centre. The primary goal was to create a centralized, web-based tool to streamline data entry, enable visualization, and support historical comparisons of radiation levels.
Methods
A front-end interface was designed and implemented to allow users to submit, view, and sort radiation survey entries. The data was stored and managed through QATrack+, an open-source quality assurance (QA) tracking system. The interface enables filtering by unit, submission year, and machine serial number. The survey included both predefined measurement locations and the ability for users to define additional customizable locations. An interactive diagram was incorporated into the interface, visually mapping these measurement locations onto schematics of LINAC, CT, and brachytherapy units to assist with spatial context and data interpretation. All submitted radiation measurements were automatically converted to a consistent unit of uSv/hr to standardize the data and support reliable comparisons across time and equipment. A custom plotting tool was developed to generate scatter plots for each location, visualizing dose rate and background radiation trends over time and calculating average values. Additional features include dynamic grouping of entries and interactive display updates.
Results
The tool enabled the submission and visualization of 11 years’ worth of radiation survey data. Scatter plots display historical data and average values, allowing staff to compare current readings to trends and identify anomalies or gradual changes. The system improved data integrity, reduced transcription errors, and enhanced accessibility. Integration with QATrack+ streamlined QA workflows and supported compliance tracking.
Conclusion
This project improved QA workflows by replacing static records with a centralized, interactive survey tool—enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and long-term usability in clinical radiation safety monitoring.