In our daily lives, we’re exposed to small doses of radiation beyond the workplace and sometimes outside our control. However, prolonged and/or intense exposure can pose serious health risks. When faced with potentially harmful radiation levels, it’s not only the employer’s but also the employees’ responsibility to ensure their safety. This is where dosimetry comes in – a vital tool companies use to track and record an employee’s radiation exposure over a specified period of time. While dosimeters are not meant to last a lifetime, they are reusable in most cases. Learn more about reusing dosimeters and when to replace a dosimeter.
What is a Dosimeter?
Dosimeters measure and alert workers of their ionizing radiation exposure. Depending on the model of dosimeter, it can measure the amount, energy and type (beta, photon, neutron) of ionizing radiation present. While dosimeters do not offer protection against radiation, they are invaluable in working alongside other personal protective equipment (PPE) to help reduce the amount of radiation exposure received over time. Dosimeter results ensure that workers are aware of their exposure to potentially harmful doses of ionizing radiation.
Can a Dosimeter be Shared Between Employees?
Personal radiation monitoring devices are assigned to and worn by a single individual. Sharing a dosimeter badge among multiple individuals renders the readings useless as it becomes impossible to differentiate each person’s exposure. It may also be necessary to assign dosimeters to specific job or body locations based on job specific work conditions. Never share dosimeters unless they can be issued, analyzed and re-zeroed prior to the next individual’s use.
How Long Can a Dosimeter be Used?
PL Medical dosimeters can be used for up to one year and are designed to withstand the rigors of daily tasks in various occupations. While the dosimeter can last up to one year, companies will conduct dosimetry exchanges more frequently (monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly). To prolong the life of your dosimeter, it should be stored in a secure and environmentally stable area of the workplace with its associated control dosimeter(s). Personal dosimeters should never be taken offsite.
When Should You Replace a Dosimeter?
While dosimeters from PL Medical can last up to one year, there are instances where dosimeters can no longer be used, and they should be replaced as soon as possible. Dosimeters are sensitive devices and should be protected from physical damage and exposure to the elements as much as possible. Some examples of when to replace your dosimeter include:
- The dosimeter itself is more than a year old
- The measuring period for the dosimeter has lapsed
- The dosimeter gets damaged in one or more of the following ways:
- Excessive exposure to radiation [outside of what it is supposed to measure]
- The dosimeter is not stored in a proper environment when not in use
- The dosimeter gets physically damaged
- The dosimeter gets lost and cannot be located
- The dosimeter leaves the worksite where it needs to be assigned/stored
- The dosimeter has measured an overexposure to radiation in previous monitoring
If you have any questions about reusing your dosimeter, our customer service is available to help.
Interested in Dosimetry Services?
PL Medical’s dosimetry program is known for providing technology-leading OSL dosimeters to implement and ensure a successful radiation safety program that meets state and federal regulations. To learn more about PL Medical’s dosimetry services, get in touch with us!