| Abstract |
The occupational hazards from industrial ionizing radiation sources are evaluated based on data from 10 state radiological control offices and a commercial dosimetry service. The 10 states, California, Colorado, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, and Texas, contain approximately 50% of the industrial x-ray facilities, 45% of the accelerators (medical and non-medical), and 90% of the industrial radium facilities in the entire United States. Hazards were assessed by an analysis of reported incidents, inspections and citations, and cause of incidents, although less than one incident per year state was reported and, confirmed. The mean whole body exposure from x-ray sources was less than one-half that of workers in nuclear reactors licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, whereas the mean exposure to workers using radium sources was roughly of the same magnitude. Recommendations are given concerning accurate and uniform reporting methods, a training manual for operators that includes safety considerations, unannounced inspections, unreported incidents and unregistered facilities. |
