What is the maximum annual whole body radiation dose allowed for radiation workers?

What is the maximum annual whole body radiation dose allowed for radiation workers?

• A. 5 mrem
• B. 50 mrem
• C. 5000 mrem
• D. 50 rem

Answer: (C)

The key idea is occupational dose limits and how they’re expressed in different units. For workers who handle radiation, the allowed average whole-body dose in a year is limited to protect against cancer risk and other effects. Doses are measured in rem (older unit) or sievert (SI unit), with 1 rem equal to 0.01 Sv. The standard annual limit for whole-body exposure is 5 rem, which is the same as 50 mSv or 5000 mrem. So, the maximum annual whole-body dose a radiation worker may receive is 5000 mrem (5 rem or 50 mSv). Smaller values would understate the allowed limit, while a value like 50 rem would exceed the permissible exposure.

The key idea is occupational dose limits and how they’re expressed in different units. For workers who handle radiation, the allowed average whole-body dose in a year is limited to protect against cancer risk and other effects. Doses are measured in rem (older unit) or sievert (SI unit), with 1 rem equal to 0.01 Sv. The standard annual limit for whole-body exposure is 5 rem, which is the same as 50 mSv or 5000 mrem. So, the maximum annual whole-body dose a radiation worker may receive is 5000 mrem (5 rem or 50 mSv). Smaller values would understate the allowed limit, while a value like 50 rem would exceed the permissible exposure.