What is the annual dose limit for a pregnant radiation worker?

The annual dose limit for a pregnant radiation worker is set at 5 mSv to minimize risk to the developing fetus. This limit is based on guidelines established by health physics organizations, which recognize that doses above this threshold may pose significant risks to fetal development, particularly during the first trimester when organogenesis and critical development occur.

The 5 mSv limit is significantly lower than the 50 mSv annual limit for non-pregnant radiation workers, reflecting the increased sensitivity of the fetus to ionizing radiation. This careful consideration helps to ensure that the radiation exposure to the unborn child is kept to a minimum while allowing the pregnant worker to continue their duties under regulated conditions.

The establishment of this dose limit aligns with the principle of As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA), which emphasizes that radiation exposure should be kept as low as possible, considering economic and societal factors. This approach is especially crucial for pregnant workers to protect the health of both the mother and the fetus.