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Biophysics & Medical Physics

ALARA Principle

A fundamental radiation protection safety principle stating that all radiation exposures must be kept 'As Low As Reasonably Achievable' (ALARA).

Governing formula Dose Optimization: Minimize Time, Maximize Distance, Optimize Shielding
SI unit Radiation Safety Protocol

In depth

Mandates three primary protection strategies: minimizing exposure duration, maximizing distance from radiation sources (inverse-square law), and utilizing appropriate protective lead shielding.

Examples in the real world

Radiology technicians standing behind lead aprons and lead glass barriers during patient fluoroscopy procedures.