Radiation safety: Understanding the ALARA principle and reducing your exposure

The ALARA principle stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable".

ALARA safety measures require minimizing the time spent near radiation sources, increasing the distance between workers and the source, and establishing a barrier to protect them from radiation.

By combining these concepts, we can be sure that radiation workers will receive the lowest possible dose when working near a radiation source.

Radiation monitoring

Radiation monitoring

Radiation protection is a key element in many sectors that use radioactive sources, such as thenuclear industry, nuclear medicine, research laboratories or theoil and gas industry.
The aim is to protect you, your team and others from exposure to radiation, in order to prevent adverse health effects.

In this article, we'll explore what radiation is and how it can be controlled by adhering to ALARA principles.

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What is the ALARA principle?

This principle is a philosophy that encourages all workers to reduce their occupational exposure to radiation, as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). (ALARA).
It stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable".

ALARA applies to all sources of radiation, whether natural or artificial.
ALARA is not a rule, it's just a philosophy!

It does not define limits or set standards.
Instead, it proposes an approach to managing exposure through the use of practical, applicable measures.

Why is it important to follow the ALARA principle?

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The ALARA principle is a key element in radiation protection and its optimization.

ALARA is used to minimize workers' and public exposure to ionizing radiation and is applicable at all levels, from industrial facilities to nuclear medicine (hospitals and clinics).

The aim is to ensure that exposure does not exceed regulatory limits, or so-called dose constraints.
Dose constraints are set by rules laid down by government agencies, based on what is known about possible health and safety effects.

How can you keep your exposure to radiation as low as reasonably achievable?

Follow the ALARA guidelines to reduce your radiation exposure to the lowest possible level according to three main principles:

distance

DISTANCE

Keep as much distance as possible between you and the radiation source.
Doubling the distance from the radiation source reduces the dose rate by a factor of four (inverse square law).

time

TIME

Work efficiently.
Limit the time you are exposed to the source of ionizing radiation. Leave the area as soon as possible.

PROTECTION AND SHIELDING

PROTECTION AND SHIELDING

Always erect a barrier between you and the source of radiation to limit exposure considerably.
If possible, stand behind a concrete wall outside the room.

Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, aprons and masks to reduce the risk of exposure and to protect you in the event of accidental exposure.

How do you monitor your radiation exposure?

How do you monitor your radiation exposure?

Use operational dosimetry monitoring devices, such as electronic personal dosimeters like Fuji Electric's NRF series, to measure your dose rate, in order to know the level of exposure to which you have been subjected.

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Active dosimeters enable you to make adjustments and ensure that your exposure level is within safe limits for your particular situation. Contact your Radiation Protection Competent Person (RPCP) to get fitted.

Discover electronic personal dosimeters and portable neutron radiation meters

Protect you and your team from radiation exposure to prevent adverse health effects.

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Radiation monitoring refers to all the measures taken to ensure the protection of humans and the environment against the harmful effects of exposure to ionizing radiation.

The ALARA process aims to better protect individuals by preventing occupational risks.

Remember : The ALARA principle to reduce your exposure

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We hope this article has enlightened you on the principles of radiation protection. The aim is to help you understand how you can reduce your exposure to radiation.

Whether you're a project manager, engineer or radiation protection officer, these principles are crucial. They are relevant if you work in nuclear, industrial, research or hospital facilities.

A basic understanding of the ALARA principle is essential. With this knowledge, you'll be better prepared to implement it effectively.

Finally, effective implementation of the ALARA principle helps you to better protect yourself from potential threats. It's an important step in ensuring the safety of you and your team.

the alara principle to reduce your exposure

Contact our radiation protection experts now to help you reduce your exposure!

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