Influences of Crisis in Syria on Occupational Exposure Monitoring

A large group of workers in many fields are exposed to ionizing radiation, for them it is important to monitor this exposure periodically and take the necessary protection procedures to minimize this exposure to as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA principle). The Atomic Energy Commission of Syria (AECS) is the sole provider for personal monitoring service in Syria. The work presents a detailed analysis of occupational exposure data during the period from 1990 to 2017 for the monitored workers in Syria. The types of work for monitored workers have been classified into five main categories as in UNSCEAR report. Sub-classification for monitored workers has been also carried out according to the practices. Using the national dose record, the numbers of monitored workers were determined each year and the collective doses and average annual doses were calculated for each practice. In addition, explanations for causes of some high exposures were given with suggestions and recommendation to reduce these types of exposure.However, rare real high exposures were noticed. Most of cases were for forgotten films in the imaging rooms and intended / non-intended direct exposure on the dosemeter from X-ray tube or contamination of the holder by a radionuclide.