Stray radiation from baggage x-ray equipment: results and implications

An investigation into the stray radiation from baggage x-ray equipment was conducted by using survey data that spanned an 8-year period (1978-1985) in conjunction with operator dose equivalent and exposure estimates based on a semi-empirical model. Less than 8% of the equipment emitted levels in excess of the regulatory limit of 0.13 microC kg-1 h-1 (0.5 mR h-1), but in no case was there a radiation health hazard to the equipment operators, allied security personnel, law enforcement officers and members of the public. Current evidence (namely, measured data and the semi-empirical model dose equivalent and exposure estimates) indicates that occupational exposures are well below the annual dose equivalent limit of 5 mSv (0.5 rem) recommended by the ICRP for non-radiation workers. Reviewing maintenance and operational procedures, monitoring design changes on new equipment, conducting limited routine surveys and educating personnel appear sufficient to preclude a radiation hazard.