Protective garments for use by persons subject to potential exposure to radioactive energy are known. Such garments typically have inner and outer linings with an intermediate layer of lead which is impermeable to such rays. Due to the amount of lead utilized, such garments are quite heavy and can cause fatigue to the wearer through prolonged use.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,441,025, a radiation shield construction has a front apron with shoulder straps and wing panels to distribute the weight of the front panel across the shoulders of the wearer. The inventor attempted to minimize fatigue by using crossing flaps in a lower region of the users back to distribute the weight. However, a significant portion of the weight is still carried by the shoulders.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,766,608, a radiation shield garment has an elasticized belt arranged to be fastened around the exterior of the garment at waist level. The belt is stretched, tightened and secured around the waist to transfer a portion of the garment weight to the waist. However, a significant part of the weight is still concentrated on the shoulders and upper back.