Radiation Monitoring and ALARA Exposure Levels

The Office of Radiation Safety (ORS) monitors the exposure records of all individuals who are issued a dosimeter (radiation badge) to maintain the occupational radiation exposure, As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).  ORS has established the notification and investigation levels specified in the table below. These levels are the fraction of the regulatory limits and evaluated on a monthly and quarterly basis as per assigned dosimeter frequency (wear period). The Limit Fraction column values indicate the percentage which the listed value corresponds to when dividing the annual limit by 12 for the monthly dosimeter and by 4 for the quarterly dosimeter (e.g the 5000 mRem annual deep dose limit divided by 4 and multiplied by 10% for the quarterly badges to make 125 mRem as the notification limit).

ALARA Investigation Response Form

UW- Madison and UW Health ALARA Levels

ORS reviews the results of radiation exposures as reports are available and take the following actions when the exposures meet and/or exceed established levels.

Radiation exposures < ALARA Level I

• No action taken.

Radiation exposures ≥ ALARA Level I but < ALARA Level II

• This triggers the written notification to the individual regarding the exposure received for that specific wear period.
• No response is required from the individual.

Radiation exposures ≥ ALARA Level II

• This triggers the written notification to the individual regarding the exposure received for that specific wear period.
• Response from the individual is required explaining the possible cause of the elevated readings.
• ORS will initiate the investigation to evaluate the cause and recommend appropriate safety measures to prevent any future reoccurrence.

A summary of these radiation exposure reviews and reports are presented to the appropriate Radiation Safety Committee, dependent on their areas of oversight. For example, if it pertains to research labs, presentation will be made to the Campus Radiation Safety Committee’s (CRSC) next meeting, and so on as applicable.