A quartz fiber dosimeter, sometimes referred to as a self-indicating pocket dosimeter (SIPD), is a pen-like device that measures the cumulative dose of ionizing radiation received by the device, usually over a period of work. These dosimeters are used to measure a person's exposure to radiation and are commonly used in the pocket. Regulatory dose limits are in place for the general public and occupational workers, and federal guidance for emergency workers is included in state and local radiological emergency plans. Pocket dosimeters are used to provide the user with an immediate reading of their exposure to x-rays and gamma rays.
The two types commonly used in industrial radiography are the direct-read pocket dosimeter and the digital electronic dosimeter. These dosimeters are also commonly used in emergency response applications because they can be used in cold areas, hot areas, and hot radiation zones. A quartz fiber dosimeter, sometimes called a self-indicating pocket dosimeter (SIPD) or self-reading pocket dosimeter (SRPD) or quartz fiber electrometer (QFE), is a type of radiation dosimeter that measures the cumulative dose of ionizing radiation received by the device, usually in a work period. Extended range personal radiation dosimeters use plastic or glass scintillators, as well as a semiconductor or Geiger-Müller tube (G-M tube) that uses a gaseous mixture to detect radiation.
Releasing the dosimeter disconnects the charger pin from the ion chamber, but induces a small change in zero, which is relatively unpredictable. These dosimeters are commonly used to detect radiation in nuclear facilities and radiological facilities to ensure compliance with industry standards. The limited range, the inability to provide a permanent record, and the potential for loss of discharge and reading due to drops or shocks are some of the major disadvantages of a pocket dosimeter. Geiger Müeller (GM) meters are extremely sensitive dosimeters that use a gas chamber to detect radiation.
Dosimeters are used to ensure that a harmful dose of radiation is not received for a certain period of time. Dosimeters inform and alert people when radiation levels are too high for them to evacuate the exposure area and avoid radiation poisoning. Local jurisdictions within 10 miles EPZ of a nuclear power plant are tasked with providing SRD and TLD badges, or equivalent dosimetry, to their designated emergency workers. They can also be used to check the readings of other dosimeters, such as PRDs or other gamma-ray dosimeters.
The main purpose of a dosimeter is to keep an occupational dose as low as possible (ALARA). This personal dosimeter is placed on the torso and displays the immediate dose and dose rate on the small monitor. Ideally, dosimetry measures the radiation dose; however, the instrument measures all the radiation to which you are exposed.
