ALARA means what in radiation protection?

• A. Keeping exposures to zero
• B. Keeping exposure of personnel and the public as low as possible
• C. Keeping doses to workers only
• D. Allowing exposure for plant operation

Answer: (B)

ALARA means "as low as reasonably achievable." It’s the obligation to reduce any radiation dose to people to the smallest level that can be achieved, taking into account what is practical, including economic and social factors. In practice, this means actively designing and operating to minimize exposure: using longer distances from sources, spending less time near sources, applying shielding and containment, and employing good administrative controls and procedures. It covers both workers and members of the public, not just one group, so the aim is to keep total exposure for everyone as low as possible. It’s not about making exposures zero—some exposure may be unavoidable, but we strive to minimize it within what is reasonable.