What is the maximum dose of radiation allowed to the skin or extremities of workers annually?

The maximum dose of radiation allowed to the skin or extremities of workers annually is indeed set at 50 rem/year. This threshold is established to ensure that personnel who work with or around radiation maintain exposure levels that do not pose a significant risk to their health.

Regulatory bodies like the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) provide guidelines that dictate these exposure limits based on scientific research concerning the effects of radiation on biological tissue. The skin and extremities can be exposed to higher levels of radiation compared to other parts of the body since they have a different level of sensitivity and inherent capacity to repair damage.

Understanding these limits is vital for occupational safety in medical imaging fields, including PET, where workers may frequently encounter radiation. This maximum dose ensures that while employees can perform their duties effectively, their exposure remains within safe limits to mitigate the risk of radiation-induced health issues over time.