What is the purpose of personal dosimetry in radiation safety?

The purpose of personal dosimetry in radiation safety is to measure and document an individual's exposure to radiation over time. This is critical for ensuring that radiation workers are kept within safe exposure limits as stipulated by regulatory agencies. By keeping accurate records of the radiation doses received, organizations can assess whether their safety protocols are effective and whether further protective measures need to be taken to reduce exposure.

Personal dosimetry serves as an important tool for monitoring and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, providing data that can be used for research, and giving individuals peace of mind regarding their occupational exposure. It helps in understanding trends in radiation exposure, supporting health and safety programs, and ensuring that workers' dose limits are not exceeded. This documentation is crucial for health physicists and radiation safety officers in evaluating the effectiveness of protective measures and ensuring the ongoing safety of personnel in environments where radiation is present.