The ASRT Foundation and Canon Medical Systems USA Inc., based in Tustin, Calif., are now accepting applications for the 2018 Safety FiRsT grant program, an initiative that provides funds for workplace safety measures for radiologic technologists.

The Safety FiRsT program awards two ASRT members a grant of up to $7,000 each for the implementation of a radiologic technology safety program aimed at improving technologist safety. The winning facilities will then implement the program and share best practices.

“The Safety FiRsT program grants allow facilities to keep their technologists on the front lines of patient care safety, while also meeting their business goals,” says Georgia Hitzke, R.T. (R)(M), chairman of the board, ASRT Foundation. “These grants allow providers to purchase new equipment or develop new training programs to improve clinician safety and allows the facilities to focus on providing high quality care to the communities they serve.”

In the past, winners have used the funds to promote radiologic technology safety through the purchase of:

  • A lifting device for use in a hospital setting.
  • Walkers and wheelchairs made of non-magnetic materials for safety in an MR suite.
  • Lead-free aprons that are lightweight yet provide more protection than standard lead-based equivalents.

“Beyond lowering radiation dose, safety extends across virtually every imaging modality and is a concept that needs continuous improvement and leadership,” says Satrajit Misra, vice president of marketing and strategic development at Canon Medical Systems USA Inc. “This grant program was developed to enable healthcare providers to establish unique strategies aimed at improving safety specifically for technologists, so they can better treat their patients.”

Now in its fourth year, the Safety FiRsT program is helping health care facilities to create safer work environments. Eligible facilities are encouraged to apply by completing an application here. The deadline to apply is June 29, 2018.

The ASRT Foundation and Canon Medical Systems’ Safety FiRsT awards are funded by a grant from Canon Medical Systems.