Re: ALARA or Not?

["Michael J Boyle"<mjboyle@dpcmail.dukepower.com>]

Dear Jerry:

The following is from the NRC's 10CFR20 Q&A.  You may draw your own
conclusions regarding
ALARA-TEDE evaluations and economic considerations. I would be interested
in knowing the results
of your poll if you don't mind sharing.

Thanks,

Michael J. Boyle, CHP
Oconee Nuclear Station
mjboyle@dpcmail.dukepower.com
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Question 449:  Detectable, minor intakes may result for some individuals
who
do not wear respirators during specific radiological work activities for
the
purpose of maintaining the total effective dose equivalent (TEDE) as low as
is reasonably achievable (ALARA), as required by regulation.  Such
resulting
intakes may involve substantial follow-up activities in terms of bioassay,
internal dose assessment, and responses to various monitor alarms (e.g.,
hand-held friskers and portal monitors) as the individual continues to
perform work in the restricted area in the period following the intake, due
to the sensitivity of the monitors and the low monitor alarm set points,
established to detect small amounts of contamination or hot particles on
individuals exiting work areas or the restricted area.  In evaluating
whether or not to use respirators in a given situation, may the assessment
of costs versus benefits appropriately include the resource costs
associated
with follow-up activities to potential intakes, and ultimately be factored
into the decision making on wearing respirators?

Answer:   Yes; however, there is no requirement that these costs be
considered.  (Reference:  10 CFR 20.1702).