Occupational exposure in the transportation of radioactive materials

Abstract

The pacific use of radiation has been growing since the second half of the 20^th century, with applications in fields as industry, agriculture, medicine and to produce nuclear energy. Utilizing data from measures of the radiation emitted from expedited material and statistical projections of hypothetical exposition to radiation, this study addressed verifying if the occupational exposure to radiation which drivers who transport radioactive material are subjected is according to the limits determined by the regulation. Thus, it would be possible to estimate the risk that workers in this occupation exceed the limit imposed by the National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) for the occupationally exposed individual and consequently are subject to present the consequences of undue radiation exposure for their health. Based on our measurements and projections, made from material delivery data to hospitals in São Paulo, we find that it is likely that drivers who are currently in the activity exceed the limits of monthly exposure advocated for the preservation of their health.