What does ALARA stand for in radiation safety?

ALARA stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable." This principle is fundamental in radiation safety and is designed to minimize radiation exposure to workers, the public, and the environment. The ALARA concept emphasizes that exposure should be kept as low as possible while considering economic and social factors. This means that radiation safety practices should strive to reduce doses and limit radiation exposure to levels that are not only safe but also reasonable, balancing the benefits of obtaining information from radiation against the potential risks.

In practice, implementing ALARA involves using strategies such as improving source shielding, increasing distance from the radiation source, limiting the time spent near a radiation source, and employing protective measures, all aimed at ensuring that exposure is minimized without compromising safety or operational effectiveness. The focus on "reasonably achievable" provides flexibility in its application, acknowledging that absolute zero exposure is not always practical or possible.