Which unit is used to measure the quantity of radiation received by radiation workers?

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The unit used to measure the quantity of radiation received by radiation workers is the rem or sievert. These units take into account not only the amount of radiation absorbed but also the biological effects of that radiation on human tissue.

The rem is an older unit that has largely been replaced by the sievert in modern practice, as the sievert is the SI (International System of Units) standard. Both units provide a measure of dose equivalent, which describes the risk of biological damage from radiation exposure. This is particularly important in the context of occupational exposure, where understanding the potential health risks is crucial for safety and regulatory purposes.

This measure is especially relevant for radiation workers who may be exposed to varying types and levels of radiation as part of their job. Using rem or sievert allows for the evaluation of risks in a way that is meaningful for health and safety protocols in environments where radiation exposure is a concern.

Other units mentioned, such as the rad, do measure absorbed radiation dose, but they do not factor in the biological effects, making them less appropriate for assessing radiation exposure risk in workers. Strontium is a radioactive element, not a unit of measurement for radiation, further distinguishing it from the context of this question.

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