H.M. Parker lecture. Radiation protection standards: a historical perspective

The historical development of radiation standards limiting exposure to people is given in this paper. Since its purpose was to provide information to the public, the number of units is limited to two, and mathematical expressions are avoided. Emphasis is placed on the role of the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements and the International Commission on Radiological Protection rather than on regulations because the recommendations of these groups have played a strong part in the formulation of regulations.