Re: Re[5]: unuseful dental x-ray

[Kjell Tengesdal <kjellt@uafphpl.uark.edu>]

 Steven D. Rima, CHP said:
>     At the same time we then talk about applying the ALARA concept to 5 
>     mrem and even talk about it being an illegal x-ray! (I would not 
>     expect any member of the public to trust a health physicist telling 
>     them that low level radiation is not really dangerous while that same 
>     HP refused a 5 mrem dental x-ray.) We can't have it both ways, 
>     folks!!!


Steven,
	I think you are comparing apples and oranges here. The very concept of
ALARA is to minimize and remove UNECESSARY exposure. The HP here did not
refuse to take a dental x-ray, he refused to take an UNECESSARY x-ray. Sure
I would tell someone that a 5 mrem exposure is not a health risk. I would
also advise them not to undergo any exposure that does not have a direct
medical benefit. Please flame privately, my proximity suit is on standby :Þ


########################################################################
#		Kjell Tengesdal	                                       #
#		Environmental Health & Safety Specialist               #
#		University of Arkansas                                 #
#		ENVS 102A                                              #
#		Fayetteville, AR 72701                                 # 
#		Phone:(501)575-4419 Fax:(501)575-6474                  #
#		Email: kjellt@uafphpl.uark.edu                         #
#               www.phpl.uark.edu/ehs/ehs.html                         #
#Opinions expressed are my own, Not those of the University of Arkansas#