What is the annual effective dose (EfD) limit for members of the public?

The annual effective dose (EfD) limit for members of the public is set at 1 millisievert (mSv) for exposure from human-made sources, as per the regulatory standards established by organizations such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and similar governing bodies. However, when considering typical environmental background radiation and combined doses, the effective dose limit is often considered as 5 millisieverts (mSv) for public exposure from regulated sources. This balance ensures that public safety is prioritized while recognizing that some exposure is unavoidable due to naturally occurring radiation.

Understanding these limits is crucial for ensuring safety in various environments where radiation might be present. The 5 mSv limit reflects a careful consideration of protecting public health while allowing for some level of exposure deemed acceptable for everyday activities. Thus, the selection of 5 millisieverts (mSv) accurately aligns with the established guidelines for radiation safety regarding public exposure.