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RE: Ed Calabrese and Linda Baldwin again
Title: RE: Ed Calabrese and Linda Baldwin again
John,
I
agree that, in principle, the ALI and the TLV are equivalent. However, in
practice, while we might expose someone to a TLV, we would never countenance
exposing a worker to the equivalent of an ALI. ALARA, as practiced by the
nuclear industry, won't allow it.
Our
collective dose goal this year is 7 person-rem [for a work force of several
hundred] and we have a staff of four whose full time occupation is trying to cut
2 or 3 mrem wherever possible.
In
light of the information we've been discussing here about low-dose effects [or
the lack thereof] and the constant pressure to reduce costs, this is starting to
trouble me somewhat.
Through discussions like this, I trust we will someday
be able to put the "reasonable" back in ALARA.
I'd
better add that these are just my musings on this topic and in no way do they
reflect my company's policy on ALARA or dose control.
Respectfully,
Ben
Ben,
Thanks for your comments. The TLVs I would associate with the
ALIs, so I don't think there is a philosophical difference. I generally
throw my comments out not to convert anyone, but to start people thinking
about what we are, or should, be thinking about. There is no question
that a hormetic effect can be demonstrated, but what part should it play in
our safety programs?
Also
consider like cancer, the induction or initiation of a hormetic response may
not lead to a benefit to the organism.
-- John
John Jacobus, MS
Certified Health Physicist
3050
Traymore Lane
Bowie, MD
20715-2024