[en] Radiation dose delivered to patients undergoing x-ray examinations are influenced by
several factors, and these determinants are responsible for the wide dose variation. A critical step
towards harmonization of radiation dose delivered to patient is the establishment of dose
reference levels (DRL). Diagnostic reference levels (DRL) helps to indicate dose levels that may
be unacceptably high or low in order to adopt possible dose reduction strategies that will not
compromise the required level of image quality. Radiation regulatory bodies adopted and
recommended the use of DRL globally. Consequently, several nations of the world have
established and adopted the usage of national dose reference levels (DRL) in their countries.
Such countries develop their own DRL in order to achieve optimal image quality with minimum
radiation exposure to the patient. In addition, diagnostic standards are enforced, governed and
reviewed periodically in accordance with changes in clinical practice and equipment. Contrarily,
Nigeria is yet to develop its own national DRL. According to World Health Organization (WHO)
using DRL as a reference and working within these levels will reduce variability, promote good
practice and enhance radiation protection. Establishment of national DRLs in a big country like
Nigeria might be complex due to large area of coverage. However, regional DRLs within the
country can be harmonized for adoption and subsequently upgrading the process to achieve the
desired goal. Hence, the goal of this study is to propose a model for the establishment and
adoption of national DRL for routine x-ray examinations in Nigeria
