ALARA PRINCIPLE

ALARA = As Low As Reasonably Achievable

Radiation Protection approach that strives to manage and control doses (both individual and collective) to the work force and the general public to as low as is reasonably achievable

Assumes that any exposure to radiation or radioactive materials involves some increased risk

No exposure without commensurate benefit

The ALARA principle includes reducing both external and internal doses from radiation and radioactive material.

Individuals should always try to maintain their radiation doses ALARA by using protective measures and methods to reduce their exposure to radiation.

ALARA Responsibilities

Implementation of the ALARA principle is the responsibility of each individual

Seek assistance from a Radiation Protection Specialist (or other knowledgeable persons) about the radiological conditions and appropriate protective measures

Protective measures to reduce external dose include:

Time - Distance - Shielding

TIME

Minimizing the amount of time in a radiation field will lower the total dose received
If you can reduce the time spent in a 10.0 mSv/hr field from 60 minutes to 40 minutes, you will reduce your dose by 0.033 mSv

Time Reduction Techniques

Pre-plan the task prior to performance

Work efficiently and swiftly

Have all necessary tools before starting the task

Perform as much work outside the area as possible

Never loiter in Radiation Areas

Do the job right the first time

DISTANCE

Maximizing distance from a source of radiation will reduce the dose rate that you are exposed to:
For a point source (a source having a small size) if the distance is doubled, the dose rate falls to one-fourth of the original dose rate
Always maximize the distance between you and any source(s) of radiation

Methods to Increase Distance

Be familiar with radiological conditions in the area

Use remote handling devices when possible

Move to lower dose rate areas during work delays

SHIELDING

The use of shielding will reduce the dose rate that you are exposed to:

Lead, concrete, and steel are effective in shielding gamma and x-ray radiation

Plastic, aluminum, and wood are effective shielding materials for beta radiation

Water is an effective shielding material for neutron radiation

Paper, clothing, skin and air are effective in shielding alpha radiation