The administrative dose guidelines are the predetermined value of radiation dose to workers, below the dose limit (administrative level), which triggers a specific course of action when the dose value is exceeded, or is expected to be exceeded.

See also Medical Internal Radiation Dose Committee, Food and Drug Administration, Material Safety Data Sheet, Annual Dose Limit, Air Kerma, Supervised Area and Drug Development and Approval Process USA.

Dosage is an important factor in the use of ionization radiation as well as in application of contrast agents or radiopharmaceuticals and the dosage should be comply with the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
Ionizing radiation comes from natural and artificial sources. Radiation effects depend on the type of radiation, and various units are used for measurement of dosages including gray, sievert, radiation absorbed dose (RAD), roentgen equivalent in man (REM), and roentgen. The amount of radiopharmaceutical given to a patient is measured in becquerels (Bq).
The dosage of contrast media in radiographic or computer-tomographic procedures should be tailored according to the diagnostic indications, the iodine concentration, and the patient's body size and age.

See also Administrative Dose Guidelines.

Radiation safety concerns the safe use of ionizing radiation. The radiation exposure has to be controlled to protect people and the environment from unnecessary exposure and the damaging effect to the health. Legal regulations require that radiation exposure (individual radiation exposure as well as collective dose) must be kept as low as reasonably achievable.
The electromagnetic spectrum includes x-rays, gamma rays, ultraviolet radiation, visible light, infrared radiation, and radio waves. Additionally, there are several types of particulate radiation e.g., alpha and beta particles. All types of radiation are used in a wide range of medicine, industry, research and communication. Radiation risks can occur due to either long-term low level exposure or short-term high level exposure. A well-functioning dosimetry program is essential for a safe use and for compliance with federal and state regulations.

Three basic rules have to be observed for a safe use of ionizing radiation.

See also Inverse Square Law, Administrative Dose Guidelines and Annual Dose Limit.