Re: To Luxel Users

[John R Laferriere <John.R.Laferriere@dupontpharma.com>]

Sandy wrote (in part):

One might also ask, if the regulatory limits are 1250 mrem/qtr, or, 
5000 mrem/yr (TEDE), why measure dose at 1 mrem at all, even if 
this can be attributed to occupational exposure? In my opinion, 
reporting and recording dose down to 1 mrem "gives significance to 
the insignificant."

The relevance or value of reporting doses down to one millirem (0.01 mSv) is indeed a matter of opinion, (technical
issues aside).  However, the 1 mrem reporting level is one of the unique capabilities of Luxel, and one which
appears to be an important feature from a marketing standpoint.  Many customers will see value in the 1 mrem reporting
level, and in being able to get a dose report that says 35 instead of 30 or 40.  It does seem to be a net improvement in
dosimetry capability to be able to measure doses that low.  So when Sandy disparages the 1 mrem capability as 
"giving significance to the insignificant", it smacks of either sour grapes or an attempt to minimize the significance of 
a competitor's unique product features.  I have no problem with anyone NOT employed at a dosimetry vendor voicing
this opinion, but people in Sandy's position should be aware that they have a higher standard to meet to protect their 
reputation as a technical resource so they do not appear to be wearing a "marketing" hat part time while posting to radsafe.  


Regards,

John R. Laferriere, CHP
DuPont Pharmaceuticals Co.
Medical Imaging Division
john.r.laferriere@dupontpharma.com
(978) 671-8316   fax (978) 671-8149