As shown in the following tabulation, most nuclear medicine technologists worked in hospitals in 2010:
| Hospitals; state, local, and private | 63% |
| Offices of physicians | 25% |
| Medical and diagnostic laboratories | 6% |
| Outpatient care centers | 2% |
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Although radiation hazards exist in this occupation, they are minimized by the use of gloves and other shielding devices. Nuclear medicine technologists wear badges that measure radiation levels in the radiation area. Instruments monitor their radiation exposure and detailed records are kept on how much radiation they get over their lifetime. When preparing radioactive drugs, technologists use safety standards to keep the chance of radiation exposure low for patients, other healthcare workers, and themselves.
Like other healthcare workers, nuclear medicine technologists may be exposed to infectious diseases.
Because imaging is sometimes needed in emergencies, some nuclear medicine technologists work evenings, weekends, or on call.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition
