Radiation Protection Rules of Thumb & FAQ

A short and simple article looking at the conversion of 10th value thickness (TVT) to 1/2 value thickness (HVT), or the reverse process. Note that sometimes TVT is known as TVL (10th value layer) and HVT is known as HVL (1/2 value layer).

The Radiation Protection Supervisor (RPS) is a statutory appointment required by the UK Ionising Radiations Regulations 2017 (IRR17). The RPS is appointed in writing by an employer who works with ionising radiation. The RPS is required to supervise the radiation safety aspects of the work, in compliance with local rules.

There is quite a lot in this resource article even though we will not labour the physics of these terms. We explore the SI base unit of radiation exposure, absorbed dose (the Gray - Gy), and then contrast with biological effective dose (Sievert - Sv). Number multiplier examples will be explored and the important difference between dose and dose rate is highlighted. Finally we will also note the non-SI units of the Rad and Rem and look at conversions.

The SI unit of radioactivity is the becquerel (Bq). In this resource we will look at some typical activity values you might find in nature or in the workplace. Number multipliers will be explored as will conversions e.g. to the non-SI radioactivity unit of the Curie (Ci). Some interesting facts will be included such as 'why do certain UK industries still think in terms of the curie?!'.

In radiation protection we tend to use numbers that are very small or very large. The maths is not difficult, but may appear unusual to those not used to such number scales.

A summary of BAT as applied to working with radioactive materials and radioactive waste in the UK.