Radiation Safety & Protection Flashcards

What is the maximum permissible dose rate at 2 meters from a radiography camera while the source is in the shielded (retracted) position?

Answer: 2 mSv/hr

NRC regulations in 10 CFR Part 34 require that cameras not exceed 2 mSv/hr (200 mrem/hr) at 2 meters when the source is in the shielded position.

Which isotope used in industrial radiography emits primarily gamma radiation at 662 keV?

Answer: Cesium-137

Cesium-137 emits gamma radiation at a characteristic energy of 662 keV with a half-life of about 30 years.

What personal protective equipment (PPE) is MOST effective at reducing gamma radiation exposure to a radiographer?

Answer: Distance and time management

For gamma radiation, increasing distance and minimizing time are far more effective protective measures than the thin lead aprons used for X-rays.

Under NRC regulations, how soon must a licensee notify the NRC after discovering a lost or stolen radioactive source?

Answer: Immediately by telephone

10 CFR 34.85 requires immediate telephone notification to the NRC Operations Center upon discovering a lost or stolen source.

What is the radiation weighting factor (wR) for X-rays and gamma rays used in dose equivalent calculations?

Answer: 1

X-rays and gamma rays have a radiation weighting factor of 1, meaning their dose equivalent in sieverts equals their absorbed dose in grays.

A radiographer receives an alarm from their alarming ratemeter during a survey. What should they do FIRST?

Answer: Immediately move away from the radiation source

An alarming ratemeter indicates elevated radiation levels, and the radiographer should immediately move away to reduce exposure.

Which federal agency regulates byproduct radioactive materials used in industrial radiography?

Answer: NRC

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) regulates byproduct material, including sealed sources used in industrial radiography, under 10 CFR Part 34.