ALARA

ALARA is an acronym for an important principle in radiation protection and stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable". The aim is to minimize the risk of radioactive exposure. This compromise is well illustrated in radiology. The application of radiation can aid the patient by providing doctors with a medical diagnosis, but the exposure should be reasonably low not to induce other cancers or sarcomas.

There are four major things one should monitor when exercising the ALARA concept.

• Shielding - Use proper barriers to block ionizing radiation.
• Time - Spend as little time in radiation fields as possible.
• Distance - Stay as far away from radioactive sources and fields as possible.
• Amount - Use as little radioactive material as possible.

See Also

• Alpha particles
• Beta particles
• Gamma particles
• Lead
• Ionizing radiation
• Radioactivity