What is the maximum occupational exposure limit for a declared pregnant woman?

The maximum occupational exposure limit for a declared pregnant woman is established to protect the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. According to guidelines from various regulatory bodies, including the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the limit is set at 0.5 rem (500 millirem) over the entire gestation period. This limit is significantly lower than what is typically allowed for non-declared workers, reflecting the fact that the fetus is more sensitive to radiation exposure.

The rationale for this limit is to mitigate potential risks to the embryo or fetus, as excessive radiation exposure during pregnancy could lead to developmental issues or other health concerns. By maintaining the limit at 0.5 rem, radiation safety protocols ensure that adequate protections are in place for the health and safety of both the pregnant worker and her unborn child.