Dosimetric models for thorium and practical problems in assessing intakes

An overview is given of the models recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) for assessing intakes and doses, and summarises biokinetic data obtained after the deposition of different chemical compounds of thorium in the rat lung. The results emphasise the importance of using material-specific data rather than default reference values for absorption into blood. The limitations of external monitoring of the chest or urine analysis are discussed, and comments made on alternative strategies for radiological protection of the worker.