The dose limit is the highest value of an applied or allowed radiation exposure. The radiation dose is limited in order to prevent the occurrence of radiation-induced deterministic effects or to limit the probability of radiation-related stochastic effects to an acceptable level.

See also Whole Body Counter, Thermoluminescent Dosimeter, Dosimetrist, Annual Limit On Intake, Committed Effective Dose Equivalent, Computed Tomography Dose Index, Directional Dose Equivalent, Doubling Dose.

The annual dose limit is the maximum dose that may be received in a calendar year.

The administrative dose guidelines are the predetermined value of radiation dose to workers, below the dose limit (administrative level), which triggers a specific course of action when the dose value is exceeded, or is expected to be exceeded.

See also Medical Internal Radiation Dose Committee, Food and Drug Administration, Material Safety Data Sheet, Annual Dose Limit, Air Kerma, Supervised Area and Drug Development and Approval Process USA.

(ALI) The annual limit on intake refers to the body intake of radionuclides by inhalation, ingestion or through the skin in one year, which would result in a committed dose equal to the relevant dose limit.

Radiation safety concerns the safe use of ionizing radiation. The radiation exposure has to be controlled to protect people and the environment from unnecessary exposure and the damaging effect to the health. Legal regulations require that radiation exposure (individual radiation exposure as well as collective dose) must be kept as low as reasonably achievable.
The electromagnetic spectrum includes x-rays, gamma rays, ultraviolet radiation, visible light, infrared radiation, and radio waves. Additionally, there are several types of particulate radiation e.g., alpha and beta particles. All types of radiation are used in a wide range of medicine, industry, research and communication. Radiation risks can occur due to either long-term low level exposure or short-term high level exposure. A well-functioning dosimetry program is essential for a safe use and for compliance with federal and state regulations.

Three basic rules have to be observed for a safe use of ionizing radiation.

See also Inverse Square Law, Administrative Dose Guidelines and Annual Dose Limit.