The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has established dose limits which are based on recommendations from the International and National Council on Radiation Protection. These limits do not provide a simple line of demarcation between "safe" and "unsafe", or "harmless" and "harmful" radiation doses. Doses less than the limit could carry risks that are considered to be very small, but not nonexistent (linear no-threshold theory versus the hormesis theorem). These considerations define the rationale for maintaining radiation exposures ALARA.
The University of Missouri - Saint Louis is committed to maintaining radiation exposures As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA). Since the current model of radiation-induced cancer risk assumes that there is a risk no matter how low the radiation dose, it makes good sense to minimize radiation exposure. In fact, the UMSL is required to keep doses As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA). This means that the University must work to keep doses as far below the dose limits as can reasonably be achieved.
Biomedical research doses reported on personnel monitors are typically minimal. The emphasis in UCHSC's program is placed upon a thorough investigation of the few dose reports that do exceed ALARA levels. The RSO will provide review and counseling to radioactive materials users in order to minimize the likelihood of internal or external exposure.
The Radiation Safety Officer reviews personnel dosimetry reports each quarter in order to evaluate the ALARA program. The cumulative quarterly dose equivalents taken from dosimeters are reviewed and compared to the ALARA limits. The dose limits are lower for declared pregnant workers or minors.
