Which statement best describes the ALARA principle?

Which statement best describes the ALARA principle?

• A. As Low As Reasonably Achievable; minimize exposure through time, distance, shielding, and administrative controls.
• B. Always maximize protective equipment usage.
• C. Only rely on PPE to reduce exposure.
• D. ALARA is not applicable to radiation incidents.

Answer: (A)

ALARA means keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable by actively managing it with multiple controls—not just one measure. The core idea is to combine reducing time spent near the source, increasing distance from the source, adding shielding, and applying administrative controls such as proper procedures and job planning. PPE has a role, but it isn’t enough on its own; the biggest gains often come from limiting time, increasing distance, and using shielding effectively. This principle applies to routine work and to radiation incidents as well. So the best description is: As Low As Reasonably Achievable; minimize exposure through time, distance, shielding, and administrative controls.

ALARA means keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable by actively managing it with multiple controls—not just one measure. The core idea is to combine reducing time spent near the source, increasing distance from the source, adding shielding, and applying administrative controls such as proper procedures and job planning. PPE has a role, but it isn’t enough on its own; the biggest gains often come from limiting time, increasing distance, and using shielding effectively. This principle applies to routine work and to radiation incidents as well. So the best description is: As Low As Reasonably Achievable; minimize exposure through time, distance, shielding, and administrative controls.