Dosimetric data on radiation workers in Switzerland: availability and limitations for epidemiological research

In 1990 the Swiss National Dose Registry started a test phase of data collection and processing. The question has been raised whether this new, centralised database with its computerized, easily obtainable data on occupational radiation exposure in Switzerland can be used for radioepidemiological studies. This paper sketches the organisation of personal dosimetry in Switzerland, describes the dose registry and other dosimetric data sources and discusses their suitability and limitations for radio-epidemiological studies.