Re: ALARA

["Gibbs, S Julian" <s.julian.gibbs@vanderbilt.edu>]

ALARA as originally proposed by the ICRP was a voluntary 
program, suggesting that radiation users examine their 
practices to determine what can be done cost-effectively to 
reduce dose.  Very close to apple pie and motherhood.  It 
is now misconstrued by many (including some regulatory 
agencies) as a requirement to reduce all doses to absolute 
minimum.
As a dentist I can cite one clear and appropriate 
application of ALARA.  A new dental radiographic film was 
introduced to the market place several years ago.  It is 
approximately twice the speed of the film now in widespread 
use.  The purchase price of the new film is exactly the 
same as the older one.  Thus, switching to the new film 
will reduce all doses (patient, occupational, and public) 
by about 50%--at no cost whatsoever.  This is now beginning 
to happen.  Inertia is amazing.

****************************************************************
S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD                    Voice: 615-322-3190
Professor of Radiology                         FAX: 615-322-3764 
Dept. of Radiology & Radiological Sciences
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville TN 37232-2670     Email: s.julian.gibbs@Vanderbilt.Edu