When must personnel wear radiation monitoring devices during work hours?

Personnel must wear radiation monitoring devices if they are likely to exceed 10% of the annual maximum allowable exposure. This guideline is in place to ensure the safety and health of individuals working in environments where radiation exposure can occur. The 10% threshold is significant because it serves as a precautionary measure to monitor radiation levels and protect personnel from potential overexposure.

Radiation monitoring devices are essential in tracking the amount of radiation a person is exposed to during their work hours. By requiring monitoring at the 10% level, institutions can effectively manage and mitigate risks associated with radiation exposure while complying with regulatory requirements. This helps maintain a safe work environment and protects both the workers and the public.

The other potential reasons for wearing monitoring devices, while they may seem relevant, do not align with established safety protocols. For example, waiting until exposure exceeds background levels would not proactively safeguard personnel. Similarly, limiting monitoring only to certain job titles like radiologic technologists ignores the possibility of radiation exposure for other staff members in related fields. Hence, the correct focus on the 10% threshold allows for a comprehensive approach to radiation safety across all personnel.