This article discusses what an area monitor is, how it should be used, and the benefits of having one in your facility.
What is an area monitor?
Area monitors are a valuable tool for recording and documenting radiation levels in areas that are regularly occupied and located near sources of radiation or radiation-related activities.
Where should I place the area monitor?
It is advised to position the area monitors in the area that accurately reflects the radiation dosage to the workers in the nearby regions. Alternatively, they can be placed in the area with the highest radiation dosage, such as the other side of the wall in the beam path or where the highest recorded leakage rate from the wall is observed.
Is the number of area monitors influenced by the size of the space?
The room size is not a factor to consider as long as the area monitor is positioned in the correct locations as mentioned above.
What is the recommended duration for using an area monitor?
Area monitors can be added to an account either temporarily or permanently. However, keeping the area monitor active, helps to enhance your radiation safety program in several ways.
1. Area monitors allow for the documentation of safe exposure levels within the monitored area, providing peace of mind to those working in that space.
2. Area monitors serve as an alert system, notifying users of any potential issues, such as higher-than-normal radiation levels.
3. Area monitors offer a means to estimate radiation exposure for individuals who may not have a radiation badge, including employees who may have forgotten or lost their badge, as well as visitors to the area.