Personnel monitoring device readings primarily indicate which type of radiation dose?

• A. Organ dose for the organ nearest the monitor
• B. Whole body rad dose
• C. Lens of the eye radiation dose
• D. Bone marrow radiation dose

Answer: (B)

Personnel monitoring devices are designed to quantify external radiation exposure for the body as a whole. Because the badge is worn on the torso, its reading represents the whole-body dose (an estimate of the deep-dose equivalent) rather than dose to a specific organ. This provides a standardized measure to judge compliance with occupational exposure limits and overall risk. If you need organ-specific information, different dosimeters or placements are required—eye-lens dosimeters near the eye for lens dose, ring dosimeters for fingertips, or additional badges placed near particular organs. In short, the primary purpose and placement of the standard monitor yield whole-body dose readings.