Dosimetry Instructions for Potentially Pregnant Workers
Current occupational radiation control rules impose a special dose limit specifically for the unborn child (embryo/fetus) of any radiation worker who formally declares her pregnancy. This dose limit is 500 millirem during the entire term of the pregnancy. This is because the embryo / fetus is more sensitive to the potential harmful effects of radiation, the dose limit is a fraction of the occupational dose limit. These limits are well under doses at which harmful effects have been observed. It is also recommended, as a further precaution, that the dose to an embryo/fetus be further limited to no more than 50 millirem per month. Normally the dose limit for a non-pregnant radiation worker is 5000 mrem per year.
A pregnant radiation worker is not required to declare her pregnancy. However, for the RSO to apply a lower dose limit, and implement any control measures or issue dosimetry, the pregnancy must be declared in writing, providing the month and year of conception to the Radiation Safey Officer and the worker's supervisor.
Dosimetry is not always necessary for a declared pregnant radiation worker. If you would like to discuss this with a health physicist, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 581-6141.
Additional information on this website for Pregnant Workers
Is there a special dose limit for pregnant workers?
The embryo-fetus is more susceptible to radiation effects than an adult and is, therefore, subject to a lower dose limit. The dose limit for the embryo-fetus is 500 millirems during the entire gestation period. As a further precaution, it is advisable to keep the monthly doses below 50 millirems. This degree of protection for the embryo-fetus can only be achieved with the cooperation of the employee and her supervisor, she should notify her supervisor as soon as the pregnancy is known. The limit is enforceable only if the pregnant employee gives written notice to the RSO and to her supervisor, who shall also notify the RSO. Please see our Pregnant Radiaiton Worker page. The declaration may be withdrawn at any time for any reason, to withdraw the declaration the RSO must be notified in writing of the employees wishes.
