Radiation Protection and Safety Flashcards

Which principle of radiation protection is described as keeping radiation exposure As Low As Reasonably Achievable?

Answer: ALARA

ALARA stands for As Low As Reasonably Achievable and is the foundational principle guiding all radiation protection practices.

The recommended annual occupational effective dose limit for radiation workers in the United States is:

Answer: 50 mSv (5 rem)

The NCRP recommends a maximum annual occupational effective dose limit of 50 mSv (5 rem) for radiation workers.

Which type of radiation monitoring device uses lithium fluoride crystals to measure accumulated radiation dose?

Answer: TLD badge

Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) use lithium fluoride crystals that trap electrons when exposed to radiation; heating releases the energy as measurable light.

To reduce occupational radiation exposure, a radiographer should use which combination of protective strategies?

Answer: Time, distance, and shielding

Time, distance, and shielding are the three cardinal principles of radiation protection for workers.

What is the minimum recommended lead equivalency for protective aprons used in fluoroscopy?

Answer: 0.5 mm Pb

The minimum recommended lead equivalency for protective aprons used during fluoroscopy is 0.5 mm of lead.

Which inverse square law calculation correctly determines the new dose rate when a radiographer moves from 1 meter to 3 meters from the radiation source?

Answer: 1/9 of the original dose rate

The inverse square law states that intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance. Tripling the distance reduces dose to 1/9 (1/3² = 1/9).