First Latin American and Caribbean interlaboratory comparison exercise for SSDLs on reference irradiation...

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Radiation Dosimetry
• Metrology

Background:

• Secondary Standards Dosimetry Laboratories (SSDLs) play a crucial role in ensuring accurate radiation dose measurements.
• The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) coordinates regional initiatives to enhance dosimetry calibration capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the calibration capabilities of SSDLs in Latin America and the Caribbean for personal dose equivalent Hp(10).
• To evaluate the consistency and accuracy of Hp(10) irradiations performed by participating SSDLs.

Main Methods:

• A comparison exercise involving 15 SSDLs was organized by the IAEA and LMRI-DEN/UFPE.
• Participants irradiated optically stimulated personal dosimeters to two nominal dose values (2 mSv and 4 mSv) using 137Cs radiation quality.
• Dosimeters were evaluated by a coordinating laboratory using a single BeOSL Reader.

Main Results:

• Except for one laboratory, all participants achieved results within 10% of the assigned values.
• The observed differences were consistent with the expanded uncertainty of the measurements.
• Most SSDLs demonstrated a good capability to irradiate personal dosimeters for Hp(10).

Conclusions:

• The comparison exercise confirmed the generally good performance of SSDLs in the region for Hp(10) dosimetry.
• The findings support the reliability of personal dose equivalent measurements in Latin America and the Caribbean.
• Continuous improvement and intercomparison exercises are vital for maintaining high standards in radiation dosimetry.