What is the annual limit for exposure to extremities in mRem?

The correct annual limit for exposure to the extremities, as set by regulatory agencies such as the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), is indeed 5000 mRem (or 50 mSv). This limit is specifically established to ensure adequate protection for workers who may be exposed to ionizing radiation in the course of their duties.

Exposures to the extremities can come from various sources, including but not limited to fluoroscopy procedures. Setting the limit at 5000 mRem allows for a significant margin of safety while acknowledging that extremities can tolerate higher levels of exposure compared to more sensitive areas of the body such as the eyes or whole body.

This differentiation is important in radiation protection policies because it takes into account the varying sensitivity of different tissues to radiation damage, ensuring that workers can perform their duties while still maintaining a safety standard.