If a worker receives a total effective dose equivalent exceeding 5 rems within 24 hours, what action is required?

• A. Phone the RHB immediately
• B. Phone the RHB within 24 hours
• C. Report the findings to the RHB within 30 days
• D. Take no action personally, it is a CDPH matter

Answer: (B)

When a worker’s total effective dose equivalent exceeds 5 rem in a 24-hour period, regulators require prompt notification to the Radiation Health Branch within 24 hours. This is because such an overexposure is a signal event that needs rapid review, medical evaluation if needed, and implementation of corrective actions to prevent recurrence. The licensee must contact the RHB within 24 hours of discovering the exposure; this is a regulatory duty, not something to wait on or treat as solely a CDPH matter. The emphasis is on timely communication to enable proper oversight and protection of workers.