Re: ALARA

[rkathren@tricity.wsu.edu (Ron L. Kathren)]

Historical note (which doubtless will engender considerable comment):

The concept of ALARA has been around a long time, and was likely first
inroduced in its 'modern' form by the NCRP in 1954.  In  1959, the ICRP
introduced the phrase "as low as practicable" or ALAP.  I believe the term
ALARA -- ie 'as low as reasonably achievable" which is conceptually and
practically identical to ALAP -- was likely introduced by the NRC, perhaps
just to be different. 

As for inertia, Dr. Gibbs observation carries an important message for us HP's. 

Ron Kathren

At 08:37 AM 12/10/97 -0600, Gibbs, S Julian wrote:
>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
>
>