Application of ALARA to occupational exposure

The application of the ALARA principle to occupational exposure in light water reactors is reviewed for the member States of the European Communities. Additional information from Sweden, Switzerland and the United States is included where appropriate. Starting from the legal situation, ALARA efforts in design are described for material selection, shielding and plant layout, system and component design. Quantitative ALARA applications are reported as examples, but are still under discussion. They are based on cost-benefit analysis with other methods under development. ALARA in operation is performed commonly in a qualitative manner. The main features are described for organization, dosimetry, backfitting and coolant chemistry. In conclusion a great deal of conformity in plant design and operation is found. Differences arise from different inspection demands and in the formal fixation and the legal commitment of organizational features. Lastly a lack of ALARA guidance is stated