Health physics

Abstract

This progress report in health physics is introduced by a brief history of the development of the subject . The important units of radiation measurement are discussed. together with the concepts of relative biological effectiveness . The current International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) maximum permissible doses are given and the method of calculation of maximum permissible concentrations (MPCs) for air and water is outlined .Three sections in more detail are devoted to aerosols. radiation spectrometry and measurement of body radioactivity . The section on aerosols concerns the release. dispersion and deposition of radioactive material which may possibly occur as a result of a reactor accident .This section contains special reference to iodine . The applications of radiation spectrometry to the problems encountered in routine health physics work are described in the next section .The last section reviews the relatively new technique of measurement of body radioactivity .Methods of routine personnel monitoring are discussed .

Whole Body Counter in Routine Tests of Hyperthyroidism Using Iodine 131

“…A survey of whole body counters that were in operation during 1962 (MEHL & RUNDO 1963;I.A.E.A. 1964) indicates that the largest use was for investigation of occupational contamination (DOLPHIN, MECAW & RUNDO 1962).…”