What is the main purpose of the ALARA program?

The main purpose of the ALARA program is to keep radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable. ALARA stands for "As Low As Reasonably Achievable," and it is a safety principle designed to minimize radiation doses and releases of radioactive materials by employing all reasonable methods. This principle emphasizes that radiation protection should not only be about compliance with regulatory limits but also about striving for continuous improvement in practices to reduce exposure.

The ALARA philosophy takes into account various factors, including economic considerations, technology, social factors, and individual circumstances, to determine what constitutes a reasonable effort to lower exposure. In doing so, it fosters a culture of safety and responsibility among workers, encouraging protective measures and techniques that can effectively reduce radiation levels.

While eliminating all occupational radiation exposure is an ideal goal, it is not entirely feasible in environments where radiation is inherently present. Similarly, while ensuring guidelines for emergency exposure is important, these guidelines do not directly reflect the ongoing practice of maintaining low exposure levels. Protecting workers from exposure off the job is essential for overall safety but is not the primary focus of the ALARA program, which operates within the context of occupational settings. Hence, the emphasis firmly rests on maintaining the lowest possible exposure through prudent practices.