Radiation Monitoring
Overview Monitoring Exposure. Protecting People.
Radiation monitoring is the systematic measurement, assessment, and surveillance of radiation levels and radioactive contamination. Its purpose is to ensure the protection of workers, the public, and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. Radiation monitoring includes both individual monitoring, which assesses radiation exposure received by occupationally exposed persons using personal dosimeters, and environmental monitoring, which evaluates radiation levels and radioactive materials in environmental media such as air, water, soil, and workplaces. These measurements ensure compliance with regulatory safety and security requirements.
Services and Applications Reliable Monitoring for Safer Workplaces
Individual radiation exposure monitoring Reliable individual radiation exposure monitoring for accurate assessment and protection of occupational exposed workers Additional Information (Rich Text: Please feel free to be comprehensive about the service/application. You have 10 000 characters here): Ionizing radiation cannot be seen, felt, or detected by human senses. However, excessive exposure may lead to serious health effects. Therefore, specialized instruments are required to detect and measure radiation in order to prevent overexposure. Radiation monitoring ensures that occupational exposures are controlled and kept as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA). Employers and licensees are required under the Atomic Energy Act, 2011 to implement occupational exposure monitoring through approved dosimetry service providers. In Malawi, Individual radiation exposure is monitored using a device called a Thermoluminescent Dosimeter (TLD). A TLD is a personal monitoring device used to measure and record ionizing radiation exposure received by an individual over a specified period. It is commonly worn by radiation workers such as radiographers, radiologists, and nuclear gauge operators. After exposure, the TLD is processed using specialized equipment that measures the stored radiation signal, which is then converted into the occupational dose received by the wearer.
Fees and Charges Transparent Pricing for Essential Protection
Monthly Individual Monitoring Supporting radiation safety through affordable monitoring services, accurate reporting, and transparent fees. • Monthly monitoring fee MWK 30,000 per person • Lost or irreparably damaged TLD badge MWK 150,000 per badge The fees and charges for individual radiation exposure monitoring cover the provision, processing, analysis, and reporting of TLD services, and are applied per monitored person based on the selected monthly monitoring period. Additional charges apply for the replacement of lost or irreparably damaged TLD badges. Invoices are issued upon verification that a TLD is lost or damaged and are payable within the stipulated period indicated. Courier costs, where applicable, are borne by the facility and are not included in the service fees. All fees are subject to periodic review by the National Dosimetry Laboratory (NDL). Suspension and Termination of Service Requests for suspension or termination of service must be submitted in writing, and either party may terminate the service by providing at least 30 days’ written notice. The National Dosimetry Laboratory (NDL) reserves the right to suspend services where invoices remain unpaid for more than 30 days after issuance.
Quarterly Individual Monitoring Promoting worker safety through reliable monitoring services, accurate dose assessment, and transparent pricing • Quarterly monitoring fee MWK 60,000 per person • Lost or irreparably damaged TLD badge MWK 150,000 per badge The fees and charges for individual radiation exposure monitoring cover the provision, processing, analysis, and reporting of TLD services, and are applied per monitored person based on the selected quarterly monitoring period. Additional charges apply for the replacement of lost or irreparably damaged TLD badges. Invoices are issued upon verification that a TLD is lost or damaged and are payable within the stipulated period indicated. Courier costs, where applicable, are borne by the facility and are not included in the service fees. All fees are subject to periodic review by the National Dosimetry Laboratory (NDL). Suspension and Termination of Service Requests for suspension or termination of service must be submitted in writing, and either party may terminate the service by providing at least 30 days’ written notice. The National Dosimetry Laboratory (NDL) reserves the right to suspend services where invoices remain unpaid for more than 30 days after issuance.
Process A structured and transparent monitoring process
1. Monitoring Application Facilities identify workers requiring radiation monitoring and submit application and service agreement forms to the NDL. Following review and approval, the facility and workers are registered in the monitoring database, and an invoice is issued for the dosimetry service 2. Issuance of TLDs Thermoluminescent Dosimeters (TLDs) are prepared for registered workers, including a background dosimeter. A dispatch form is generated, and the TLDs are either collected by the facility or delivered through its preferred courier service 3. Return of TLDs At the end of each monitoring period, facilities return used TLDs to the NDL for analysis. Once received, the NDL issues replacement TLDs to ensure continuous occupational radiation exposure monitoring 4. Data Analysis and Reporting Returned TLDs are analysed by the NDL, and dose reports are issued within 10 working days. Where necessary, regulatory guidance is provided, and investigations are conducted for doses that exceed regulatory limits 5. Amendment Request Any request to change the number of monitored workers must be submitted in writing to the National Dosimetry Laboratory (NDL), and facilities may submit multiple amendment requests as needed. All requests must be made at least 30 days before the start of the intended monitoring period
Frequently Asked Questions We Are Happy to Answer Your Questions
At the National Dosimetry Laboratory (NDL), we are committed to providing clear, accurate, and timely information about radiation monitoring services. Whether you are a radiation worker, facility manager, employer, or regulatory stakeholder, we understand that questions may arise regarding dosimetry, dose reporting, compliance requirements, and occupational radiation protection To support informed decision-making and promote a strong culture of radiation safety, we have compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about individual radiation exposure monitoring. If you do not find the information you are looking for, we encourage you to contact us directly—our team is always ready to provide guidance and assistance on radiation monitoring services and requirements • What is radiation monitoring Radiation monitoring is the measurement and assessment of radiation exposure to individuals and the environment • What is a dosimeter A dosimeter is a device used to measure and record an individual’s exposure to ionizing radiation over a specific period • How does a TLD work A TLD absorbs radiation energy during use. After the monitoring period, it is processed using specialized equipment that measures the stored energy. This measurement is then converted into the radiation dose received by the wearer • How often should a TLD be worn A TLD must be worn at all times while working in radiation areas or when operating radiation-generating equipment • Where should a TLD be worn A whole-body TLD should be worn on the outside of clothing between the neck and waist, with the front facing outward away from the body • Can a TLD be shared between workers No. Each TLD is strictly personal and assigned to one individual only. Sharing dosimeters is not allowed, as it leads to inaccurate dose records • What happens if a TLD is lost or damaged If a TLD is lost or returned in an irreparably damaged condition, a replacement fee is charged in accordance with the NDL fee schedule. The facility must also report the loss immediately