What type of radiation exposure is primarily monitored in occupational settings for radiation workers?

The correct choice highlights that in occupational settings, radiation workers are primarily monitored for X-ray and gamma radiation. This is because these types of radiation are the most common forms encountered in various industrial, medical, and research environments where workers may be exposed.

X-rays and gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate materials and human tissue effectively, making them significant hazards in those work environments. Continuous monitoring for these forms of radiation is crucial for ensuring the safety and wellbeing of workers, as they can lead to serious health risks, including cancer, if exposure levels exceed recommended limits.

While monitoring may include other types of radiation, such as alpha and beta particles, these are less prevalent in most occupational settings. Alpha radiation, for example, cannot penetrate the outer layer of human skin, which makes it less of a concern unless there is the possibility of ingestion or inhalation. Similarly, while beta radiation can penetrate the skin, it is less commonly encountered in many work environments compared to X-rays and gamma rays. Hence, the focus is predominantly on the more penetrating and hazardous forms like X-ray and gamma radiation.