Which statement is true about annual dose limits?

Which statement is true about annual dose limits?

• A. The general public limit is higher than the occupational limit.
• B. The general public limit is lower than the occupational limit.
• C. The occupational limit is lower than the general public limit.
• D. The general public limit is equal to the occupational limit.

Answer: (B)

Annual dose limits are set to protect people while allowing necessary work. Workers may receive higher occupational doses because they are directly involved with sources and procedures, but their exposure is regulated and kept as low as reasonably achievable. The general public is protected more strictly, so their permissible annual dose limit is smaller. That’s why the statement that the general public limit is lower than the occupational limit is correct. For example, typical values are about 50 mSv per year for workers and about 1 mSv per year for the general public. The other options don’t fit because the public limit is not higher, not equal, and the occupational limit is not lower than the public limit.

Annual dose limits are set to protect people while allowing necessary work. Workers may receive higher occupational doses because they are directly involved with sources and procedures, but their exposure is regulated and kept as low as reasonably achievable. The general public is protected more strictly, so their permissible annual dose limit is smaller. That’s why the statement that the general public limit is lower than the occupational limit is correct. For example, typical values are about 50 mSv per year for workers and about 1 mSv per year for the general public. The other options don’t fit because the public limit is not higher, not equal, and the occupational limit is not lower than the public limit.