Lesson 6 6.6 Dose Limits and Constraints
ParameterValueNotes
Dose limit (individual member of the public / critical group)1 mSv per yearMay be compared with UK average background radiation dose of ~2.7 mSv per year
Dose constraint (source-related)0.3 mSv per yearSingle source constraint; if not achievable, the operator must demonstrate doses are ALARP
Dose constraint (site-related)0.5 mSv per yearTotal from all operations on a nuclear site, irrespective of site size or number of installations
Risk target (for underground disposal)10^-6 per yearIf estimated risk exceeds this, the operator must show further reductions are only achievable at disproportionate cost
Maximum dose from waste disposal0.1 mSv per yearAny waste disposal site must be designed so maximum individual dose does not exceed this value

Key point: The dose limit of 1 mSv/yr is a legal limit. The dose constraints of 0.3 mSv/yr and 0.5 mSv/yr are design targets used for optimisation. Facilities must demonstrate that actual doses are ALARP and in all cases within the legal dose limits.