Bioassay samples are primarily used to measure what?

Bioassay samples are primarily used to measure the presence and accumulation of radioactive materials within the body. This technique is essential in monitoring radiation exposure, especially among workers in environments where they may be in contact with radioactive substances. By analyzing bioassay samples—such as urine, blood, or other bodily fluids—radiological workers can determine if they have ingested or inhaled radioactive materials and assess the potential internal dose of radiation they may have received.

The measurement of radiation emitted from radioactive materials is crucial for occupational safety and health, as it helps in evaluating exposure risks and ensuring that workers are within permissible dose limits established by regulatory agencies. Bioassays are distinct from methods such as personal dosimetry or environmental monitoring, which may focus more broadly on external radiation sources or other forms of radiation exposure.