Summary - hdbk-1130-98

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

c. The risks associated with occupational radiation doses are generally considered acceptable

as compared to other occupational risks by most scientific groups who have studied them.

There are some scientific groups who claim that the risk is too high. DOE continues to fund

and review worker health studies to address these concerns.

III.

SUMMARY

In summary, the estimated risk associated with occupation radiation dose is similar to other

routine occupational risks and much less than some risks widely accepted in society. The risk of

work in a radiation environment is considered within the normal occupational risk tolerance by

national and international scientific groups. However, acceptance of risk is an individual matter

and is best made with accurate information. A radiological worker should understand the risk of

working in a nuclear environment in relation to the risks of daily life and the risks presented by

work in other professions. The intent of this module is to give you the facts about radiation

exposure risks and provide you with an opportunity to ask questions about radiation risk. It is

hoped that understanding radiation risk and risk in general will help you to develop an informed

and healthy respect for radiation, and that your understanding will eliminate excessive fear of or

indifference to radiation.

IV.

EVALUATION

(Insert facility-specific information.)