|
THE
ORCBS > Radiation
Safety
> Radiation
Safety Manual
>
 Pregnant
Radiation Workers
A special situation
arises when a radiation worker becomes pregnant. Under these conditions,
radiation exposure could also involve exposure to the embryo or fetus.
A number of studies have indicated that the embryo or fetus is more
sensitive than the adult, particularly during the first four months
of pregnancy. This can be a problem since many workers are unaware
of their pregnancy during the first month or two of gestation. Hence,
the NRC and the State of Michigan require that all occupationally
exposed workers be instructed concerning the potential health protection
problems associated with prenatal radiation exposure.
The maximum
permissible exposure for a declared pregnant worker during the gestation
period is 500 mrem. There are relatively few research laboratories
where radiation levels are high enough that a fetus would receive
this dose before birth. If a radiation worker is pregnant, she may
notify the Radiation Safety Officer, and then declare the pregnancy
in writing in order for the prenatal exposure limits to take effect.
The pregnant radiation worker will then meet with a health physics
staff member, and a complete assessment of her radiation exposure
potential will be made. The written declaration is made by completing
a Declaration of Pregnancy form, which is maintained in the records
by the ORCBS.
If notification
is not made in writing, the radiation exposure limits remain at
the occupational level, that is, 5 rem per year. An individual may
"un-declare" her pregnancy at any time, but this also
should be documented.
Declared pregnant
workers (DPW) will be assigned two badges, one for the whole body,
normally worn on the torso and one for the fetus, normally worn
on the abdomen. The badges will be exchanged on a monthly basis.
Exposures must be maintained beneath a cap of 50 mrem per month
in order to prevent exposure spikes.
Exposure
Limits for the General Public
Radiation
Safety Manual Table of Contents
|
