Ludlum Measurements 2241-2, Manual

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Model 2241-2RK Technical Manual
Section 6
Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 6-12 July 2012
Standards and Regulation
Much of the evidence that has led to today's standards derives from the
atomic bomb survivors in 1945, which were exposed to high doses incurred
in a very short time. In setting occupational risk estimates, some allowance
has been made for the body's ability to repair damage from small exposures,
but for low-level radiation exposure, the degree of protection may be unduly
conservative.
Most countries have their own systems of radiological protection, which are
often based on the recommendations of the International Commission on
Radiological Protection (ICRP). The authority of the ICRP comes from the
scientific standing of its members and the merit of its recommendations.
Who is in charge?
Ultimately, you are. All of the sources of radiation, other than natural, are
regulated by laws passed by Congress. Like any other law, you have your
right to voice your views and opinions about it. The regulations that control
the use of radioactivity in our country are based upon recommendations of
science organizations like the International Commission on Radiological
Protection (ICRP), the National Council on Radiation Protection (NCRP),
the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the United Nations (UN),
and the Health Physics Society (HPS). Governing bodies like the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission (NRC), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) review these recommendations and propose
the regulations that industry and government must follow. These are then
passed by Congress, if found to be acceptable, and published in the Code of
Federal Regulations (CFRs).
Note:
The CFR limits the general public to radiation exposure of
100 mrem/year, with no more than 2 mrem of exposure in
any one hour (ref. 10 CFR 20.1301).