Principles of radiation protection

The purpose of radiation protection is protecting people, society, the environment and future generations from the harmful effects of radiation.

The principles of radiation protection are based on the recommendations of the ICRP (International Commission on Radiological Protection). The ICRP’s recommendations are internationally accepted to a great extent, and they are also taken into account in the radiation protection provisions of the EU and Finland.

Acceptable use of radiation must meet the following basic principles:

• Principle of justification

The benefits derived from the practice shall exceed the detriment it causes.

• Principle of optimization (ALARA – As Low As Reasonably Achievable)

The practice shall be arranged so that the resulting exposure to radiation hazardous to health is kept as low as is reasonably achievable.

• Principle of limitation

The exposure of workers and the members of the public shall not exceed the verified maximum dose limits.

The Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority regulates the use of radiation and other radiation practices under the Radiation Act (592/91). The regulation also applies to the use of non-ionizing radiation and practices in which natural radiation sources may cause exposure.