Re: Film Badges

[don.parry@cis.state.mi.us]

Sandy wrote:

"The LDE annual limit is 15 Rem"

Some states have not adopted this limit, especially for x-ray.  Our 
regulations still state the dose limit as 1250 mRem/quarter.  I have seen 
several physicians in cardiac cath operations that routinely approach this 
level.  Some, in an effort to avoid receiving higher badge readings will 
not wear a film badge, or will not wear it all of the time.  A review of 
the film badge records in this situation would not be an accurate 
reflection of the employees dose or risk.  For personnel involved with high 
dose, invasive radiology, lead glasses do not seem to be that outrageous of 
an investment to protect the worker.  I do not know the cost, but assuming 
the glasses are relatively durable and could be used for a long time, I 
can't believe the cost per year per worker could be that high.  And with 
the relatively low energy of diagnostic beams, they would provide a 
substantial reduction in the dose.

I understand peoples concern with unnecessary cost and over burdensome 
regulations.  But if a small up front investment can result in a large dose 
reduction over time, how can one not consider it prudent.
  
Donald E. Parry
Radiation Safety Section
MI  Dept of Consumer & Industry Services
Voice: 517-241-1989; Fax: 517-241-1981
E-mail: don.parry@cis.state.mi.us
Web site: www.cis.state.mi.us/bhs/divisions/hfs/rss/