Keele University Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre

Keele University Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre

This case study explores the creation of a bespoke mobile X-ray shielding screen for Keele University’s Anatomy and Surgical Training Department, a project that began as a bold sketch and evolved into one of the largest mobile shielding systems of its kind. Designed and delivered with Raybloc’s hallmark innovation and technical precision, the screen demonstrates how complex, highly specific requests can be transformed into safe, compliant, and practical solutions for advanced medical education and surgical training environments.

The Challenge

Keele University’s anatomy and surgical skills department approached Raybloc with a very different yet equally ambitious request, for a mobile x-ray shielding screen on an unprecedented scale. Their desire to push the boundaries and disrupt medical education really set the tone for the project, and it’s been an absolute honour for us to be trusted with such a unique challenge. It was unimaginable that any standard commercially available solutions would have delivered the size, mobility and functionality requirements described for the project as it needed custom design that could withstand radiation safety standards and be seamlessly introduced into teaching space. For Raybloc, this was not just about delivering a product, but about collaborating with a pioneering institution to transform a bold idea into a working reality.

Installation of Customised Radiation Protection Solutions

Raybloc’s engineering team collaborated closely with Keele to transform this concept into reality. Using in-house design and manufacturing, we developed oversized interlocking mobile screens, each segment independently mobile on heavy-duty casters. The screens were fitted with RD50® lead glass panels, integrated glazed vision areas, and fold-down worktops, giving staff safe visibility and space to stand behind the screens to make notes. Designed to lock seamlessly together without gaps, the units ensured continuous shielding while maintaining flexibility and teaching functionality.

Unlike conventional mobile screens, these bespoke units required extensive research and innovation to combine structural strength with smooth mobility, while still achieving Code 5 (2.24 mm Pb) equivalence and meeting RPA standards.

The Solution

The result was one of the largest bespoke mobile X-ray shielding screens ever produced in the UK. At 2000 mm high and up to 1500 mm wide, these screens combined mobility with robust protection, incorporating Code 5 (2.24 mm Pb) lead equivalence. Triple-glazed lead glass panels ensured clear visibility without compromising safety, while powder-coated aluminium frames provided a professional, hygienic finish.

Complementing the main screen, an additional 2000 mm × 1000 mm unit was manufactured for flexible positioning in the teaching suite, creating a complete shielding solution tailored to Keele’s unique environment.

Specifications and Requirements

• Specialist Interlocking Mobile Screen (Large): Code 5 (2.24 mm Pb), 2000 mm × 1500 mm, RD50® triple-glazed flush lead glass, interlocking panels, drop-down shelf, white powder-coated aluminium frame, heavy-duty casters.
• Specialist Interlocking Mobile Screen (Medium): Code 5 (2.24 mm Pb), 2000 mm × 1000 mm, solid interlocking panel with drop-down shelf, white powder-coated aluminium frame, heavy-duty casters.
• Delivery: Phased logistics within 6-8 weeks to align with Keele’s on-site readiness.
• Compliance: Designed and manufactured in line with IRR17 and tested against RPA standards.

The Benefits оf Installing Control Booths, Windows and Doorsets from Raybloc

When visiting Keele University to review and document this project, we were also reminded of our history with the institution. An original Raybloc X-ray window, installed many years ago, was still in place and performing its shielding role flawlessly. It served as a testament to the durability of our products and the trust Keele has placed in Raybloc over time a trust that we were proud to continue with the delivery of this ambitious mobile screen.

This project highlights Raybloc’s capacity to deliver beyond conventional expectations, as reflected in Paul Clews’ testimonial included in this case study, showing how Raybloc exceeded expectations by providing:

• A truly bespoke shielding design, tailored to a university’s anatomy training needs.
• Full compliance with IRR17 and RPA testing, ensuring safe use in teaching and research.
• Mobility and flexibility, with oversized screens on casters for easy reconfiguration.
• Enhanced teaching environments, combining protection with visibility and integrated work surfaces.
• The reassurance of Raybloc’s 10-year guarantee on materials and workmanship.

About Raybloc Radiation Protective Products

Raybloc’s work with Keele University highlights our ability to turn unique ideas into reality. The design and delivery of one of the largest bespoke mobile X-ray shielding screens tailored for the university’s anatomy and surgical training department demonstrates our focus on innovation, safety, and practicality. We are proud to support the next generation of medical professionals and to see our shielding solutions making a lasting difference in education and training. At Raybloc, we don’t just supply products we deliver complete radiation shielding systems for healthcare, veterinary, industrial, and research environments. All solutions, from lead-lined doors to bespoke mobile screens, are manufactured in-house to HTM, BS EN, and RPA-approved standards. With 25+ years of experience and full project management, we turn complex shielding requests into practical, compliant, and reliable solutions.