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Background: One of the numerous sub-areas of interventional radiology is the use of X-rays in gastroenterology. X-ray fluoroscopy is applied in therapeutic procedures, including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) that is frequently performed. The ERCP procedure is aimed at imaging the pancreatic duct and biliary tracts., Material and Methods: In this paper radiation risk to the gastrenterologist performing ERCP procedures was investigated. The procedures were performed by a single gastroenterologist in the ERCP Laboratory, University Clinical Hospital Military Memorial Medical Academy - Central Veterans' Hospital in Łódź, Poland. The study comprised 2 series of measurements, one taken during the procedures with continuous fluoroscopy mode, the other during procedures with fluoroscopy in pulsed mode at a frequency of 3 pulses/s. Exposure parameters, anatomical data of patient and dose equivalents for the eyes, skin of the hand and the effective dose for whole body of the gastroenterologist were recorded during each procedure., Results: The collected data cover 70 ERCP procedures - 40 procedures were controlled by continuous fluoroscopy and 30 by pulsed fluoroscopy. The results reveal that pulsed fluoroscopy makes it possible to reduce doses received by the gastroeneterologist from 45% to 60% compared to continuous fluoroscopy., Conclusions: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures can cause radiation risk to the gastroenterologist performing them. The use of continuous fluoroscopy can result in achieving an equivalent dose to eye lens nearly 20 mSv per year, i.e., the decreased annual limit recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). Med Pr 2017;68(6):735-741., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

Background: There are about 200 underground tourist routes in Poland. There are caves, mines or underground structures. This paper presents the results of the research intended to identify the extent of the occurrence of radon concentrations in underground areas of tourist routes., Material and Methods: We conducted the measurement of periodic concentrations of radon (1-2 months) in the summer using type Tastrak trace detectors. We determined the average concentrations of radon in air in 66 underground tourist routes in Poland., Results: The research results comprise 259 determinations of average radon concentrations in 66 routes. The arithmetic average of the results was 1610 Bqm-3, and the maximum measured concentration was over 20,000 Bqm-3. The minimum concentration was 100 Bqm-3 (threshold method) considering the arithmetic average of the measurements. It was found that in 67% of the routes, the average concentration of radon has exceeded 300 Bqm-3 and in 22 underground routes it exceeded 1000 Bqm-3., Conclusions: Radon which occurs in many Polish underground tourist routes may be an organizational, legal and health problem. It is necessary to develop a program of measures to reduce radon concentrations in underground routes, especially routes located in the former mines., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

Background: Mobile telephones belong to the most frequently used personal devices. In their surroundings they produce the electromagnetic field (EMF), in which exposure range there are not only users but also nearby bystanders. The aim of the investigations and EMF measurements in the vicinity of phones was to identify the electric field levels with regard to various working modes., Material and Methods: Twelve sets of DECT (digital enhanced cordless telecommunications) cordless phones (12 base units and 15 handsets), 21 mobile telephones produced by different manufactures, and 16 smartphones in various applications, (including multimedia) in the conditions of daily use in living rooms were measured. Measurements were taken using the point method in predetermined distances of 0.05-1 m from the devices without the presence of users., Results: In the vicinity of DECT cordless phone handsets, electric field strength ranged from 0.26 to 2.30 V/m in the distance of 0.05 m - 0.18-0.26 V/m (1 m). In surroundings of DECT cordless telephones base units the values of EMF were from 1.78-5.44 V/m (0.05 m) to 0.19- 0.41 V/m (1 m). In the vicinity of mobile phones working in GSM mode with voice transmission, the electric field strength ranged from 2.34-9.14 V/m (0.05 m) to 0.18-0.47 V/m (1 m) while in the vicinity of mobile phones working in WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) mode the electric field strength ranged from 0.22-1.83 V/m (0.05 m) to 0.18-0.20 V/m (1 m)., Conclusions: The mean values of the electric field strength for each group of devices, mobile phones and DECT wireless phones sets do not exceed the reference value of 7 V/m, adopted as the limit for general public exposure., (This work is available in Open Access model and licensed under a CC BY-NC 3.0 PL license.)

Background: Many patients of physiotherapeutic facilities using therapeutic radon are also referred to other treatments involving the use of electromagnetic field (EMF). However, in the light of the theory of EMF influence on free radicals, it is still an open question whether, application of EMF shortly after the radon treatment may alter the biological effects of radon or EMF. The aim of the study was to determine how large is the group of patients exposed to radon and EMF in Poland, and how high is the exposure of these patients to analyzed factors. The results of the study are to be used in the future assessment of the combined effects of radon and EMF in radon spas., Material and Methods: Based on the statistical data and interviews held in the major Polish radon spas, the analysis of treatment structure was performed and exposure to radon and EMF was assessed by measuring radon concentrations and characteristic values of exposure to EMF., Results: More than 8000 people per year are subjected to combined exposure to radon and EMF. Significant differences were found between measured radon concentrations (they ranged from approximately 61 kBq/m3 for inhalations with inhaler to only 290 Bq/m3 for graduation towers, p = 0.049) and EMF intensities corresponded to those observed in hazardous and dangerous zones for occupational exposure., Conclusions: The results of the study showed significant differences between radon concentrations during various radon treatments. There is a need to develop clear and universal procedures for the application of radon or radon combined with EMF in radon spas. The effects of patients' exposure to radon, especially combined with EMF need to be further studied.

Exposure of both patients and medical staff to relatively high doses of radiation is one of the features characteristic of interventional radiology (IR). Regulations regarding this kind of therapeutic management can be found in many legal references and recommendations of European Union Law. The purpose of the paper is collection and systematic analysis of activities and procedures associated with the question of radiation hygiene which should be observed in IR suites. Requirements regarding equipment of the IR suite, as well as radiation protection of patients and medical staff, constitute main questions included in the paper, worked out on the basis of valid regulations and occupational experience of the authors. Particular attention is paid to borderline requirements regarding modern IR suite equipment and its organization. Part of the paper is devoted to the understanding of physical laws of ionizing radiation in biological space and its surroundings. Understanding of physical laws, proper utilization of IR suite equipment, and strict compliance with recommendations of radiation protection by both patients and medical staff are critical for limitation of the harmful influence of radiation during interventional therapeutic procedures. An additional role of the paper is to make it easier to take decisions when creating new IR suites, in accordance with valid regulations and the rule of functionality.

Background: The assessment of electromagnetic field distribution near radiophones and their use warranted an analysis of ther mal exposure hazards and related health effects, based on i.e. numerical calculations of specific energy absorption rate (SAR)., Materials and Methods: The investigation concerned radiophones of conventional and trunked communication systems. Electromagnetic hazards assessment involved numerical simulations of SAR inside users' models (male and female) for 5 radiophones locations - near the ear, arm, chest, hip and face., Results: Maximum SAR (10 g) values depend on radiophone type, output power and locations. Near the chest, hip and face they are 6-, 2- and 2-fold higher than for location near the ear. SAR (10 g) may exceed Directive 2013/35/EU limits at maximum (4 W) output power of conventional radiophones, and the distance between antenna and worker's body shorter than 5 cm. SAR (10 g) values near trunked radiophones do not exceed 35% of the Directive limits. The Polish safety and health regulations in particular cases of radiophones use and local exposure may not guarantee the compliance with Directive 2013/35/EU requirements, i.e. SAR (10 g) may locally exceed exposure limit values (ELVs) during exposure to electromagnetic fields of hazardous, and even intermediate zones., Conclusions: It was demonstrated that exposure of trunked radiophones users does not exceed the limits laid down in the Polish safety and health regulations and Directive 2013/3/EU however, in particular scenarios of the conventional radiophones use overexposure can be observed. The results showed that in exposure to electromagnetic field emitted by sources located near workers' body there is a need for more detailed analysis of the compliance of Polish safety and health regulations with Directive 2013/35/EU requirements.

Background: Use of electro surgery units (ESU) in surgeries is linked with electromagnetic field emission, which is assessed according to the requirements of occupational health and safety legislation., Material and Methods: Surgeons' exposure characteristics was monitored during 11 surgeries (proctectomy, patency of artery, hepatectomy, cystectomy, tonsilectomy, laparoscopy) by real time of monopolar ESU activity recorder. Investigations of root-mean-square value of electric and magnetic field strength was also performed at various modes of ESU operations during cutting (output power, 55-150 W; frequency, 330-445 kHz) and coagulating (40-240 W, 335-770 kHz). Statistical parameters of distribution of ESU operation over any 6-min periods (according to international requirements regarding protection against adverse thermal effects of electromagnetic field) were assessed., Results: Electric field strength, measured 10 cm from the cable supplying an active electrode was 147-675 V/m during cutting and 297-558 V/m during coagulating; magnetic field strength was less than 0.2 A/m in both modes. Monitoring of ESUs showed the following ranges of their operation during surgeries 5-66% of time over starting 3 min of surgery, 3-40% over starting 6 min, and the distribution of their use over any 6-min periods 0-12% (median) / 7-43% (maximum value)., Conclusions: The real operation time of ESUs ing surgeries was significantly shorter than that declared by workers. The distance of at least 15 cm between cables, connecting electrodes with generator and workers meets the requirements of the Polish legislation on permissible exposure limits. The assessment of localized exposure of the hand needs a detailed analysis of the SAR ratio distribution and further studies are required.

Background: The paper presents the results of the assessment of effective doses received by people occupationally exposed to X and gamma rays in Poland in 2011 provided by the Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine in Lodz. The results were compared with the data collected between 1966-2010., Materials and Methods: The dosimetric service was provided for people occupationally exposed to ionizing radiation in terms of personal dose equivalent Hp(10). In 2011 the Institute's program of individual dosimetry Hp(10) covered more than 28 000 workers in 4007 laboratories (mainly of health service departments). The measurements were carried out using the film method, according to the research procedure (number AB 327) accredited by the Polish Centre for Accreditation., Results: In 2011 the average annual dose Hp(10) was equal to 0.5 mSv (annual limit for Hp(10) is equal to 20 mSv), which maintained at the approximate level of about 0.5 mSv for the last ten years. At present, more than 99% of annual doses do not exceed 5% of the annual level i.e. the level of 1 mSv. Only one case of exceeding the annual limit was recorded in 2011., Conclusions: The comparison between the 2011 data on the workers ( mostly health service workers) occupationally exposed to X and gamma rays and the data collected in the previous years indicates a satisfactory level of radiation protection in Poland.

The current system of dosimetric quantities has been defined by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU). Complexity of the system implies the physical nature of ionizing radiation, resulting from the presence of different types of radiation of different ionization capabilities, as well as the individual radiation sensitivity of biological material exposed. According to the latest recommendations, there are three types of dosimeter quantities relevant to radiation protection and radiological assessment of occupational exposure. These are the basic quantities, safety quantities and operational quantities. Dose limits for occupational exposure relate directly to the protection quantities, i.e. the equivalent dose and effective dose, while these quantities are practically unmeasurable in real measurement conditions. For this reason, in the system of dosimetric quantities directly measurable operating volumes were defined. They represent equivalents of the protection quantities that allow for a reliable assessment of equivalent and effective dose by conducting routine monitoring of occupational exposure. This paper presents the characteristics of these quantities, their relationships and importance in assessing individual effects of radiation. Also the methods for their implementation in personal and environmental dosimetry were showcased. The material contained in the article is a compendium of essential information about dosimetric quantities with reference to the contemporary requirements of the law, including the changed annual occupational exposure limit for the lens of the eye. The material is especially addressed to those responsible for dosimetry monitoring in the workplace, radiation protection inspectors and occupational health physicians.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners belong to the most modern imaging diagnostic devices, which involve workers' exposure to static magnetic fields (SMF) during the preparation and performance of MRI examinations. This paper presents the data on workers' exposure to SMF in the vicinity of MRI scanners and the analysis of SMF-related biological effects and health hazards to find out whether softening the legislative requirements concerning protection against SMF exposure of workers involved in MRI diagnostics is justified. Measurements in the vicinity of 1.5 T MRI magnets showed that exposure to SMF by various scanners depends on both SMF of magnets and scanners design, as well as on work organization. In a routine examination of one patient the radiographer is exposed to SMF exceeding 0.5 mT for app. 1.5-7 min, and up to 1.3 min to SMF exceeding 70 mT. In examinations of patients who need more attention, the duration of exposure may be significantly longer. The mean values (B mean) of exposure to SMF are 5.6-85 mT (mean 30 +/- 19 mT, N = 16). These data demonstrate that only well designed procedures, proper organization of workplace and awareness of workers how to attend the patients without being exposed to strong SMF allow for meeting the requirements of labor law concerning workers' exposure to SMF. The analysis of the available literature on biological effects of SMF has disclosed the lack of data on health effects of many years exposure of workers and the abundance of data demonstrating the biological activity of SMF. Therefore, a radical softening of legislative requirements concerning the exposure of workers' head or trunk is premature, and what is more, it is not indispensable for the development of MRI diagnostic. Such an action should be preceded by extensive international investigations on the health status of workers exposed to electromagnetic fields by MRI scanners.

Background: The paper presents changes in the electromagnetic field intensity in a school building and its surrounding after the mobile phone base station installation on the roof of the school., Material and Methods: The comparison of EMF intensity measured before the base station was launched (electromagnetic background measurement) and after starting its operation (two independent control measurements) is discussed., Results: Analyses of measurements are presented and the authors also propose the method of the electromagnetic field distribution adjustment in the area of radiation antennas side lobe to reduce the intensity of the EMF level in the base station proximity. The presented method involves the regulation of the inclination., Conclusions: On the basis of the measurements, it was found that the EMF intensity increased in the building and its surroundings, but the values measured with wide margins meet the requirements of the Polish law on environmental protection.

Background: Radon and its decay products in the atmosphere are the most important contributors to human exposure from natural sources. In Poland, the total annual effective dose from indoor radon is 1.36 mSv., Material and Methods: Over the past twenty years, the measurements of radon concentration in the building indoor air were performed three times by the Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Łódź, with the use of track detector CR-39 enclosed in NRPB cassette. Those measurements were taken in the ground floor of each building., Results: The average annual radon concentration was 89 Bq/m3 in 1998/1999; 75 Bq/m3 in 2008/2009; and 52 Bq/m3 in 2005., Conclusions: Assuming that a human spends at home about 5000 hours per annum and using suitable conversion factors, the dose from radon the inhabitants under study are exposed to varies from 0.9 to 1.1 mSv and it is lower than average dose for the Polish population.

Background: For over 40 years already, the Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine (NIOM) in Lodz has been supervising non-ferrous metal mines for miners' radiation risk of radon and its short-lived daughters products found in the air of mines., Material and Method: The supervision involves the use of trace detectors placed in passive dosemeters worn by a representative group of miners., Results: During the late 1960s, the exposure in some mines was as high as 50 mSv/year. Owing to the steps undertaken in the mines, including primarily the provision of improved ventilation systems, the exposure was reduced to 5 mSv/year, and then to 2 mSv/year during the 1980s and 1990s., Conclusion: The results of measurements, performed during the recent 10 years, show that the exposure in non-ferrous metal mines is now within the limits specified for worker category B, i.e., not exceeding 6 mSv/year. The mean annual effective dose for a ten-year (1998-2009) period was 2.1 +/- 0.9 mSv/year.

The work addresses technical aspects of the assessment of exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the environment based on cellular telephony systems. In this paper, EMF parameters, important to the biosphere exposure, are discussed, and the methods for the EMF assessment: theoretical analysis of EMF intensity in the proximity of EMF sources and also the measurements in situ, are described. The review of measurement methods, identification of limitations of measuring devices, estimation of the expected EMF intensity in the municipal environment and environmental measurements uncertainty are presented. M

Identification of electromagnetic fields in the vicinity of high voltage overhead transmission lines requires taking measurements and determining, on their basis, the maximum values of electric (Emax) and magnetic (Hmax) field strength, as well as the width of the area with electric field strength exceeding 1 kV/m. Measurements should be carried out in the places, where the distance between phase wires and the ground is smallest, and their results converted to conditions expected at the most disadvantageous parameters of the work of line in terms of their effect on the environment. This requires taking into consideration the maximum voltage of the transmission line, as well as the highest acceptable temperature of wires. In a single-circuit line, convertion of the measured values to expected maximum values of Emax and Hmax is not difficult, although it requires knowledge of cross-profiles in spans, in which measurements were taken. However, recounting the values of magnetic field strength produced by two-circuit lines creates a serious problem. Since in the majority of cases, the measurements in the surrounding of two-circuit lines are carried out at asymmetrical currents in both circuits, converting their results to symmetrical currents of the lines is practically impossible. Therefore, the results of the measurements of magnetic field strength carried out at the asymmetrical current of a two-circuit line cannot provide the basis for assessing the possibility of exceeding the allowable value of magnetic field intensity determined in the binding regulations. Such an assessment can only be done on the basis of the results of relevant calculations.

Background: Owing to good solubility of radon 222Rn in water the gas is found almost in all surface and underground water basins. Radon released from water into the ambient atmosphere is a source of health hazard to the workers handling mineral water in Spa facilities., Material and Methods: Mean monthly radon concentrations were measured using closed dosimetry with CR-39 trace detectors. Of the 101 Spas included in the study, 76 returned the dosimeters., Results: In two Spas, the measured concentrations were above 1000 Bqm(-3), and thus annual doses of over 6 mSv could be received by the workers of those Spas. In four of the Spas, radon concentrations were within the range of 500-1000 Bqm(-3). In the majority (75%) of the Spas, mean monthly radon concentrations were not higher than 150 Bqm(-3)., Conclusions: One hundred sixty persons working in 13 Spas can be exposed to the doses, which are important from radiation protection point of view. In the remaining Spas, radon exposure is maintained at the level of average exposure of the general population in Poland.

In the paper a review of electromagnetic field sources in radio- and microwave- frequency range is presented. The aim of the study was to analyze possibilities and methods used to survey electromagnetic field (EMF) measurements. Selective and broadband methods with examples of apparatus are described. The accuracy of typical EMF survey measurements was estimated.

Electromagnetic field meters used for occupational and general public health protection are commonly calibrated in the continuous wave conditions, but a large number of medical devices, mobile base station antennas and radars generate pulse modulated fields. The results of an analysis of additional errors of pulse fields measurements by diode-type meters (EMR 200/300, PMM and MEH) are presented in this paper.

Background: The aim of the study was to present the modified method for the assessment of exposure to electromagnetic field (EMF) in the case of work on a tower or a mast of a large radio television station. The assessment results are included in Reports on EMF intensity measurements, issued for occupational health and safety needs., Material and Methods: Particular emphasis is placed on measurements on radio and television towers and masts where EMF intensity is very high. Since workplaces on towers and masts are not permanent it is not possible to define regular routes or typical tasks of a worker. Therefore, a new approach to the problem is offered. The presented method involves the calculation of maximum admissible dwell time on specified levels of the mast, taking account of EMF dose received by the worker while climbing particular parts of the mast., Results: The results of calculations of the maximum admissible dwell time relative to the level of the specified platform of the mast are presented in Tab. 1 and Fig. 1. The dose received by the worker while climbing the mast reduces (in the given case) the maximum admissible dwell time on the highest platform by about 25%., Conclusion: The way the results of EMF intensity measurements are presented in the report allows the worker to plan his work on the mast so that the maximum permissible EMF dose is not exceeded during his work shift.

The accuracy of electromagnetic field (EMF) standard measurements are relatively low as compared to the accuracy of other standards of physical magnitudes mainly because all EMF components are defined with use of indirect methods. This approach leads to error dependent on methods currently used to determine standard field, available equipment, frequency range and other factors. One way to eliminate these errors is a simultaneous use of two or more methods or intercomparison of standards performed within one's own laboratory or in comparation with other national or/and foreign laboratories. The accuracy of a meter cannot exceed the accuracy of a standard applied to calibrate it. Unfortunately, this condition is frequently violated and (probably because of commercial reasons) the declared accuracy of meters available on the market exceed that of the best EMF standards. Some sources of errors in the work of several factors limiting accuracy of the EMF standards are discussed in details. The analysis reveals the need for appropriate choice of calibration method, taking into account EMF component, required accuracy, EMF intensity, frequency, and equipment applied. Such an approach and the use of calibration factors, estimated theoretically or/and experimentally, may contribute to remarkable improvement of the accuracy of procedures being used.

The investigation of the occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields from electrosurgery devices were done (according to the requirements of Polish Standard PN-T-06580:2002). The exposure was evaluated following the criteria established by occupational safety and health regulations. The measurements and evaluation of the currents flowing through the exposed workers body were also conducted following the method and criteria published by IEEE standard and European Directive 2004/40/EC. It was found that in the vicinity of electrosurgical devices, the area of electromagnetic fields to which only workers operating the source of field should be exposed can exist up to the distance of 70 cm from the active electrode and supplying cables. In the case when the cables are placed directly on the surgeon body or long duration of the daily exposure the overexposure of workers can appear (referring to Polish regulations). The current flowing through the arm of surgeon keeping the electrode with electric field of the maximum strength (app. 1000 V/m or higher) can exceed permissible value of 40 mA established by the Directive 2004/40/EC for contact current. The reduction of the surgeon exposure can be reached by the proper positioning of the cables supplying monopolar electrode or by the use of bipolar electrode.

This paper presents the most important elements of the localization procedure of high voltage overhead lines and substations and radiocommunication objects which are the source of electromagnetic fields. These fields are perceived as a major threat to human health. The point of departure to make a choice of investments is the special classification of technical installations described in one of the executive directive issued by virtue of the Environmental Protection Act. This special executive directive enumerates a lot of technical objects (installation), classified in the group of investments which have significant impact on the environment and some objects which could be classified in this group. For all this technical installations (e.g., overhead high voltage power lines) the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act impose an obligation to take particular steps to assure transparency of the environmental protection procedures, transborder procedures and the protection of areas included in the Natura 2000 network.

Background: The authors present the result of pilot measurements of electromagnetic fields (EMF) in the surrounding of some toys available on the Polish market. The measurements were compared with safety standards set in Poland to ensure occupational safety and hygiene regarding appliances producing EMF and the environmental protection., Materials and Methods: EMF intensity was measured in the surrounding of six walkie-talkie sets (frequencies: 49.2 MHz; 50 MHz, and 446 MHz) and 8 radio-controlled (RC) toys (frequencies: 27 MHz; 44.5MHz, and 49 MHz). Constant EMF was measured in the surrounding of 4 mechanical toys with battery powered wire and wireless steering., Results: Walkie-talkie type toys and remote controlled toys are the source of EMF with intensity values ranging from 1 to 21.5 V/m. EMF values over 0.01 mT were not found in the surrounding of mechanical toys., Conclusions: Although EMF values in the surrounding of toys meet the requirements defined by CE labeling, several toys produce in its surrounding EMF values exceeding maximum allowable intensities according to Polish environmental regulations and corresponding with protective zones defined by hygiene norms set to protect persons working with EMF-producing devices. The magnitude of exposure caused by aforesaid toys depends on both the kind of toys and the age of children playing with them.

Background: Devices that produce electromagnetic fields (EMF) within the range of 0-300 GHz are widely used in surgical and diagnostic procedures. As a result a large number of physicians and other groups of medical personnel may be exposed to EMF. Even if patients' exposure, sometimes quite high, is inevitable or even recommended, medical personnel should be substantially protected against EMF exposure., Materials and Methods: Evaluation of nurses' exposure to EMF was based on an analysis of EMF magnitudes in the surrounding of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electrosurgical units. These two kinds of apparatus are the strongest EMF sources in health service facilities. The measurements were performed according to the norms and hygiene regulations binding in Poland. Measurements performed by the Nofer Institute of Medicine in Lódź, and data collected by the Central Database on EMF Sources were used in the analysis. The Central Database is run by the Nofer Institute of Medicine at the behest of the Chief Sanitary Inspector., Results: The study showed that nurses' exposure to EMF emitted by MRI and electrosurgical units complies with Polish norms and hygiene regulations and can be classified as negligible or allowable., Conclusions: It was found that work of nurses in exposure to EMF emitted by MRI and electrosurgical units can be regarded as safe, which means that their health should not be endangered by performing their job.

Under the process of developing a uniform system of protection against excessive exposure to electromagnetic fields, Polish metrological standards have been amended as an inherent complement of the modified decree on maximum admissible strength (MAS) values, issued by the Minister of Labour and Social Policy. Two parts of standard PN-T-06580:2002 were established by the Chairman of the Polish Committee for Standardisation in 2002. Of the whole range of frequencies covered by legal regulations, it laid down the principles of evaluation of occupational exposure to electromagnetic fields and radiation, providing precise definitions and rules for estimation actual dose and exposure factor in each case of exposure in real conditions. The standards also precise conditions, in which simplified principles of occupational exposure measurement and evaluation can be applied. Currently in the European countries, there are no general standards concerning methods of measuring and evaluating occupational exposure to 0-300 GHz electromagnetic fields. The provisions of numerous European (EN) and international (IEC) standards of a much narrower scope of application are similar to those formulated in standard PN-T-06580:2002.

Amendments to Polish standards on electromagnetic fields (EMF) have made it necessary to modify the methods and procedures to be employed by the sanitary services responsible for monitoring occupational risks. To ensure a correct functioning of the State Sanitary Inspectorate and of the teams involved in measurements, it seems essential: to adjust other relevant regulations; to develop a method of classifying devices according to the emitted EMF; to provide uniform procedures to be followed in institutions if the measurements required by the regulations are not feasible; and to assemble a database on the determined levels of EMF emitted by various devices--especially those at frequency bands not yet monitored.

The author presents a concise information on the formal and legal status of the protection against the effect of electromagnetic fields in humans adopted in the European Union member states. Essential information on the Polish legal basis of the environmental protection against the effect of electromagnetic fields is provided. The most important, in the author's opinion, provisions of the Environmental Protection Law and executory provisions are discussed.

Ablative treatment of thyroid cancer with 131I is associated with the exposure to ionizing radiation of not only the target cells but also other cells and organs in the patient's body. Thermoluminescent dosimetry showed that the mean dose equivalent in ovaries equaled to several dozen mSv when the mean therapeutic dose was 2.8 GBq of 131I. In the treated young women the performed ovulation tests revealed no dysfunction of the ovaries. The highest dose equivalent in the clinic staff would not exceed 20 mSv per year. Accordingly, the dose equivalents to the public would not exceed the threshold limit of 1 mSv per year. In order to fulfill the requirements of regulations for disposal of radioactive waste and the necessity to store the waste for as long as 80 days it is obligatory to utilize setting tanks of very large capacity.

Individual dosimetry of doses received by persons working with radiation is made by film badges which are worn by workers at the chest. These dosimeters measured the exposure at the body surface, but it is well known that the real risk of ionizing radiation is due to the doses absorbed by radiosensitive organs and so called "effective dose equivalent". In the paper the results showing the relationship between the exposure and effective dose equivalent are presented vs x-radiation energy. In the case when the phantom was irradiated from the front the effective dose equivalent was only 40% of exposure. When the phantom was irradiated from the back the effective dose equivalent was 70% higher than the exposure from the film badge.