ARRT Radiation and Safety 2

Question 1

What is the annual occupational effective dose limit for radiation workers in the US?

Accepted Answer

50 mSv

Answer

The NCRP and NRC set the annual occupational effective dose limit at 50 mSv (5 rem) per year.

Question 2

Which type of radiation has the greatest penetrating power?

Accepted Answer

Gamma rays

Answer

Gamma rays are highly penetrating electromagnetic radiation requiring dense shielding such as lead or thick concrete.

Question 3

The ALARA principle in radiation protection stands for:

Accepted Answer

As Low As Reasonably Achievable

Answer

ALARA means As Low As Reasonably Achievable, guiding practitioners to minimize radiation exposure while maintaining image quality.

Question 4

Which device is most commonly used to measure personnel radiation exposure over time?

Accepted Answer

OSL dosimeter

Answer

Optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dosimeters are the standard personnel monitoring device used by radiologic technologists.

Question 5

What shielding material is most commonly used in radiographic rooms due to its high atomic number and density?

Accepted Answer

Lead

Answer

Lead is the standard primary shielding material because its high atomic number (82) and density make it highly effective at attenuating X-rays.

ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Practice Test