Monte Carlo calculations applied to the parametrical studies in a whole body counter

The use of a Monte Carlo code for the analysis and interpretation of whole body counting measurements is described. The sources of error are analysed and commented to show how a counting geometry can be improved by improving accuracy and precision in a measurement. The effects of body size, contamination distribution and counting geometry are also parameters which can be easily used to improve the quality of a body burden assessment. The optimisation of the detector (position, shielding, shape and size) is also commented on the basis of calculations in the photon energy range usually encountered in routine measurements. The results obtained from these simulations are confirmed by experimental results.