Frequently Asked Questions
Are dosimeters needed if an employee is exposed to ultrasound or MRI radiation?
No, a dosimeter is not needed. Dosimeters measure ionizing radiation only, therefore, dosimeters are not responsive to radiation emitted from ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging equipment. Dosimeters in this case are not useful or needed.
Who needs a dosimeter?
- Any worker likely to receive radiation exposures in excess of 10% (500 mrem) of the applicable limit and individuals who enter in a radiation area greater than 5 mrem per hour (e.g., persons who work within 6 feet of a fluoroscopy tube).
- Contact the Dosimetry Coordinator at (650) 723-3203 or your health physicist to confirm if new employees needs a dosimeter.
Who can request a dosimeter?
- All requests need to come from the department representative listed for your location.
- Provide the Name (Last, First) Date of Birth (DOB), Gender, and Department (Location Code/Account Number) located on the exposure report or packing slip.
- Identify who needs to be badged by position (e.g. all rad workers, all irradiator operators, etc.)
- Identify how many people need to be badged compared to the number that want to be badged.
- What kind of radiation are they exposed to? A badge is required for anyone expected to receive more than 10% of a dose limit.
Who to Contact about Dosimetry
If there are any questions regarding the wearing of these badges or any questions regarding radiation monitoring, please contact the Stanford University Health Physics Department Dosimetry Coordinator at (650) 723-3203.
