WUSTL Radiation Safety Training Practice Test

The choice of a thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) as the correct answer is appropriate because TLDs are specifically designed to measure and monitor an individual's exposure to ionizing radiation over time. These devices contain materials that absorb radiation energy, which is later released as light when heated. The intensity of this light is proportional to the amount of radiation the dosimeter has been exposed to, allowing for precise calculation of the radiation dose received.

TLDs are advantageous because they provide a record of accumulated exposure and can be worn on the body, typically in areas where radiation exposure is likely, such as on a person’s clothing or as part of a badge. Their ability to provide a reliable measure of exposure makes them a standard tool in the field of radiation safety, especially for individuals who work in environments where radiation is present.

In contrast, while Geiger-Muller counters and radiation survey meters are effective for detecting and measuring radiation levels in the environment, they are not typically worn as personal devices. They are generally used for monitoring area radiation rather than individual exposure. Similarly, film badge dosimeters, while another method of tracking exposure, have been largely supplanted by TLDs in many applications due to their increased accuracy and reliability.