What does the acronym ALARA stand for in radiation safety?

The acronym ALARA stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable," and it is a fundamental principle in radiation safety. This principle emphasizes minimizing radiation exposure to individuals, workers, and the public to the lowest level that can be reasonably achieved while still accomplishing necessary tasks. The rationale behind ALARA is that, even though there are limits and standards set for radiation exposure, reducing exposure as much as possible is essential in safeguarding health and safety.

Implementing ALARA involves assessing all aspects of radiation work, including the duration of exposure, distance from the source, and the use of shielding. It encourages proactive measures and continuous improvement in radiation safety protocols. This approach is critical in industrial radiography, where radiation is used for non-destructive testing, and ensures that operational practices do not compromise health and regulatory compliance.