Health Physics Questions and Answers- Question 445

Question 445: In this example, it has been determined that an individual is not likely to exceed 5 rems shallow dose equivalent from any sources with the possible exception of dose from hot particles. There is a potential that exposure to an individual from a hot particle may occur and that the dose to the individual from a hot particle, should it occur, may potentially exceed 5 rems shallow dose equivalent. In this circumstance, may the potential dose resulting from a potential exposure to a hot particle be disregarded for the purpose of the evaluation on the basis that the dose is not likely to exceed 10% of the applicable limit? Note that the scope of this question is limited to the requirements for individual monitoring (§20.1502) and is not intended to address the general requirements for radiological surveys (§20.1501).

Answer: Yes. The fact that an individual has the potential to receive a dose does not mean that the individual is likely to receive the dose. [Note: It should also be recognized that individual monitoring devices (personal dosimeters) are not appropriate for measuring doses from hot particles on or near the skin.]

(Reference: 10 CFR 20.1502)