Optimizing the performance of direct-reading dosimeters

The direct-reading dosimeter has often been criticized for its lack of precision and accuracy and its tendency to produce false readings. This study investigates that contention and discusses the limitations of these instruments and the consequent effects on personnel monitoring. The precautions which must be observed to eliminate or minimize these limitations in the data are explained. Data are presented to support the statement that direct-reading dosimeters, when properly used, are accurate and precise instruments whose small size, ruggedness, resistance to severe environments, hermeticity and self-reading capabilities can be a decided advantage over transfer standards for some applications.