What is the annual effective dose limit to the public in case of continuous exposure?

The annual effective dose limit to the public for continuous exposure is set to safeguard the general population from the adverse effects of radiation. The correct answer, which states that this limit is 1/50th of the occupational worker limit, aligns with regulatory guidance aimed at minimizing risk to individuals who are not routinely exposed to radiation in their work, such as medical professionals or industrial workers.

Occupational dose limits are typically higher because workers are trained and supplied with protective measures to safely manage exposure to radiation. In contrast, the public dose limit is purposefully set much lower, reflecting a commitment to public health and safety.

By selecting this fraction of the occupational limit (which generally stands around 50 mSv per year for radiation workers), the standard acknowledges that non-occupational exposure should be significantly constrained. This approach emphasizes the principle of keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA).

The other figures, such as 2 mSv or 5 mSv, represent specific exposure limits but in the context of radiation workers or different regulatory frameworks. Thus, the choice emphasizing the fraction of the occupational limit is a straightforward reflection of the public dose limits established by agencies responsible for radiation protection.