Metrology: ENEA INMRI guide to enhance radiation protection

Enhancing the reliability of ionizing radiation measurements in fields impacting humans and the environment is one of the goals of the European project GuideRadPros, in which ENEA participates with the National Institute of Ionizing Radiation Metrology (INMRI), in addition to the creation of a proper guide for the implementation of ISO 4037:2019 (the reference standard for dosimetry laboratories) and material for training practitioners in the field and the update of the standard in light of scientific advances.

 “The correct application of the ISO standard by laboratories, industries and regulatory bodies is critical for protecting personnel from the dangers of ionizing radiation” explained ENEA Nuclear Department researcher Francesca Curciarello, project leader. GuideRadPros, leveraging the expertise of leading European metrology institutes, aims to be a leader in addressing the challenges imposed by the latest revision of ISO 4037:2019, testing innovative cost-effective methodologies and techniques that will enable emerging institutes to properly implement the standard to ensure better quality in ionizing radiation measurements for radiation protection."

In addition to its scientific and social value, the project has significant technological and economic value: in fact, the experimental activities will lead to the development of new measurement methods to be made available to customers of metrological institutes and calibration laboratories, affecting the design processes of new equipment which impact innovation and competitiveness.

"X-ray and gamma dosimeters are calibrated according to the ISO 4037:2019 standard and are used almost universally in those procedures involving ionizing radiation such as, monitoring workers, the environment and responding to emergencies. However, updating this standard has led to increased requirements, higher costs and new training needs. Small calibration laboratories and emerging metrology institutes have not been able to fully adapt to the new standard. Hence the importance of this European project," Curciarello concluded.

To date, among the achievements of GuideRadPros there are three official papers, eight training events, seven dissemination meetings and 16 contributions to international conferences, in addition to a peer-review publication and e-learning material, all available on the project website.

Project web site