RE: Dosimeter Location

["Tupin, Edward A. 301-827-1230 Fax 594-4760" <EAT@FDADR.CDRH.FDA.GOV>]

The issue of personnel dosimetry in diagnostic radiology, particulary 
interventional fluoroscopy procedures which may involve extremely long 
"x-ray on" times (hours!) was addressed as part of the 1992 National 
Council on Radiation Protection and Measuremnt (NCRP) annual meeting.  
See the proceedings (available from NCRP) for complete text. The 
presentations addressed the issue of dosimeter placement when personal 
protection (lead aprons) were worn and the relationship of dosimeter 
readings to effective dose equivalent.  

There is no current written specific guidance available.  This is where 
the HP earns his money - use your best judgement to put the dosimeters 
where they will allow you to demonstrate compliance with the relevant 
limits.  It make some work to figure out where the most limiting doses 
are occurring.  Once you decide where the badges should go, and why, 
write it down.  

In the much of the non-DOE U.S. federal world, the OSHA guidance for 
occupational exposure to ionizing radiation (29CFR1910.96) still 
applies. (Same as "old" 10CFR20).  Some states have adopted the current 
NRC guidance and made it applicable to all modes of radiation exposure.  

Ed Tupin
RSO, Center for Devices and Radiological Health
EAT@fdadr.cdrh.fda.gov
(301) 827-1230
Fax:  (301) 594-4760