Where should a dosimeter be worn when wearing one?

Wearing a dosimeter on the anterior surface of the body, outside the lead apron at collar level is crucial for accurately monitoring radiation exposure. This location helps ensure that the dosimeter measures the radiation dose received by the head and neck area, which are critical regions where radiation exposure can occur, especially during fluoroscopic procedures.

Positioning the dosimeter at collar level allows for the detection of scattered radiation, which is often higher in the upper body when working in fluoroscopy. The collar level is also a standard reference point for health physics and radiation safety protocols. This setup provides a clear indication of the operator's exposure to radiation while protecting more sensitive areas of the body.

In contrast, wearing the dosimeter underneath the lead apron or at other body locations like the back of the neck or below the apron may not accurately reflect radiation exposure, as these placements could shield the dosimeter from the primary or scattered radiation the operator is receiving during procedures. This can lead to insufficient monitoring, which is critical for maintaining safety standards in environments where radiation is present.