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Question 406: Regulatory Guide 8.36, "Radiation Dose to
the Embryo / Fetus," (Section C.1.3) states that "the
determination of external dose should include all
occupational exposures of the declared pregnant worker
since the estimated date of conception." (a) If declared
pregnant worker has received occupational dose during this
pregnancy while working for a previous licensee, is it
intended that the dose from the previous licensee be
obtained and included in estimating and limiting the
embryo / fetus dose for the gestation period? (b) If this is
the intention, what should be done if applicable dose
records are not available because the worker had not
declared pregnancy or was not monitored (i.e., was not
likely to exceed 10% of a limit) at her previous workplace?
In the absence of other data, should the previous dose be
assumed to be zero?
Answer: (a) Yes.
(b) The licensee should make an effort to make a reasonable
estimate of the dose using other information that the
worker and her previous employer have concerning her
exposure. Even when the worker was not monitored, a
well-trained worker and her employer should be able to
provide some information concerning her exposure.
(c) No. Neither should it be assumed to be the maximum
possible dose. See answer to question (b). (Reference:
Regulatory Guide 8.36).