Discussion of Am-241 role as the factor of internal radiation exposure in Mayak PA workers

Radiation monitoring with whole body counter (WBC) has a series of advantages, as this technique is efficient and is considerably cheaper than indirect urine bioassay method. Experience of WBC operation in the system of Mayak PA worker internal radiation monitoring as well as qualitative analysis of the obtained results is considered. The groups of workers under study are described, and a brief analysis of data obtained in comparison with individual exposure parameters is presented. The number of individuals with Am-241 is higher among the workers employed in the early years of Mayak PA operation. Fraction of Am-241 in total body burden relative to sum of actinides is higher for workers who started to work in conditions of exposure in the last decade (1990-2000) and sometimes is as high as 25%.