What is Safe

["Reynolds, Harold" <harold.reynolds@rfets.gov>]

If I remember my studies of radiological history correctly, when ICRP
adopted LNT/ 5 rem/yr/ ALARA in 1959 their reasoning was that based the fact
that using LNT, 5 rem/yr for a working lifetime equates to risk associated
with hazardous occupations.  If that level of risk was acceptable in other
occupations, it should be acceptable as a maximum for rad workers.  However,
in order to reduce this risk, all radiation doses should be ALARA and none
without positive benefit.  Their document also carried a statement to the
effect that while risks associated with large does are well understood, the
risks of low level doses are not known.  It also states that LNT/ALARA are
recommended "for the purposes of radiation protection."

Harry
Harold.Reynolds@RFETS.gov
************************************************************************
The RADSAFE Frequently Asked Questions list, archives and subscription
information can be accessed at http://www.ehs.uiuc.edu/~rad/radsafe.html