Analysis of Whole-body Doses Received by Occupationally Exposed Workers in Ireland (1996-1999)

The work described in this paper is based on the results of routine whole-body measurements carried out by the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland Dosimetry Service from 1996 to 1999. Data on the occupational radiation exposures of monitored personnel are examined and have been found to follow the skewed distribution reported by UNSCEAR. The annual average effective dose for each major work practice over the 4 years is given and compared with the UNSCEAR reference value of 1.1 mSv per year for all occupations. Evidence suggests that improvements in procedures and the use of better equipment have resulted in a reduction in the number of workers receiving measurable doses.