Argonne National Laboratory

External Dosimetry

The External Dosimetry Group provides dosimetry to individuals who require radiation exposure monitoring at Argonne

Dosimetry is the application of principles and techniques involved in the measurement and recording of personnel dose from external sources of radiation.

External Dosimetry

The objective of external dosimetry is the accurate assessment of personnel exposure to radiation outside of the body. This is accomplished through wearing a dosimeter for radiological work.

Training

Individuals are required to complete training on workplace hazards associated with radiological tasks before being allowed to use dosimeters.

How to Request a Dosimeter

Follow the steps below to request a dosimeter:

  1. For Employees and Guest Facility Users:  Ensure you have completed the General Employee Radiation Training (ESH738) in Workday, or equivalent radiation safety training, prior to requesting a dosimeter. Visit the Registration System for Dosimetry webpage and complete your registration at least 72 hours before you need the dosimeter.
  2. For Visitors: Complete the Dosimeter Initialization Form and registration process at least 72 hours prior to the time they need the dosimeter. General Employee Radiation Training is included in the email that is sent out after completing the Dosimeter Initialization Form. 

General Pick-up Location

The general employee, contractor and visitor dosimeter pick-up location is in Building 202 R-Wing. If you are an ATLAS user, the dosimeter pick-up location is in Building 203. If you are an APS user, dosimeter pick-up location is in the Building 401 coat room. 

Frequently Asked Questions

In response to questions from users, we have developed a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page which is up to date with the latest information. A sample of the most popular questions is below.

Q: Is there any required training for dosimetry issuance?

A: Yes, before requesting a dosimeter, employees and guest users must complete the General Employee Radiation Training (ESH738) in Workday or equivalent radiation safety training. This step is essential and must be completed before submitting a request in the new system. You can also obtain credit for GERT if you take other higher-level radiation worker training, such as Radworker I or Radworker II.

Q: For how long is my current dosimeter valid?

A: Dosimeters are valid for one calendar quarter. The quarters are as follows:

  • Q1 = Jan. 1-March 31
  • Q2 = April 1-June 30
  • Q3 = July 1-Sept. 30
  • Q4 = Oct. 1-Dec. 31

If you want to be issued a dosimeter for the calendar quarter, your GERT training must be valid for the entire quarter. GERT training is required to be retaken every two years.

Q: Where do I pick up my requested dosimeter?

A: For employees, contractors, or visitors: Once you receive an email that your dosimeter is ready, you can pick it up from the dosimetry rack in Building 202, outside of the south door of R-Wing.

For APS Users: Once you receive an email that your dosimeter is ready, you can pick it up from the rack in the Coat Room near the atrium in Building 401, by the APS User Office on the first floor. This rack location is called ​“UB.”

Need Assistance?

If you are unsure whether you need a dosimeter, contact your supervisor or area health physicist. If you have questions about the dosimetry registration process, reach out to the External Dosimetry team at externaldosimetry@​anl.​gov.