OSL Dosimetry for Radiation Detection Badges
RadiationSafety.com utilizes OSL dosimetry in its radiation detection badges. OSL stands for optically stimulated luminescence, and dosimetry measures ionizing radiation dosages. It allows for measuring exposure to radioactive isotopes over a specific time. Many agree that OSL dosimetry is a better alternative to thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) technology.
OSL dosimeter badges are the industry standard used by governments, hospitals, labs, and companies worldwide. An OSL dosimeter is a passive form of radiation detection requiring optical stimulation. It detects X-rays, gamma radiation, and beta particles. Some of our competitors say, “There’s no difference.” Read below, and you decide. For a lower price, do you want Radiation Safety’s four-element OSL Badges or an older technology that utilizes TLD badges?
Basics of OSL Technology
OSL dosimeters are materials that trap electrons from radioactive isotopes in their defective crystalline structure. Some utilize aluminum oxide (AI203) to absorb and release radioactive energy to measure the radiation dose received precisely. The OSL dosimeters store the electrons until they are released through stimulation. While heat is used to stimulate TLD dosimeters, light stimulates the elements within the OSL dosimeters. The OSL dosimeter then releases the energy stored in the dosimeter as the emitted light is measured. Since they utilize passive technology, the laboratory can read the OSL radiation detection badge multiple times without significantly fading.
Our OSL radiation detection x-ray badges are shockproof, water resistant, and unaffected by heat. These radiation monitors are durable and straightforward to use. With OSL technology, badges are re-readable. A second reading of the radiation dose from an OSL dosimeter may only decrease by as small as a one percent difference compared to its first reading. In contrast, TLD dosimeters cannot be read multiple times. OSL dosimeters provide high sensitivity and can give an accurate reading as low as one mrem for gamma-ray and X-ray particles. In addition, OSL badges measure the amount of scatter ionizing radiation. OSL radiation detection badges can also be used as area monitors. An area monitor measures the radiation in the environment over a specified period.
What About Late Fees and Lost Dosimeter Badges?
Our policy states that if a badge is lost, late, or unreturned, please let us know immediately and ask for a replacement. Your account will charge a fee for each lost, late, or unreturned badge. We have a 60-day grace period for lost badges or dosimeter rings, one of the longest in the industry. A credit will be issued to your account if a badge is found. This credit will help offset the initial charge for the lost badge.
If you order badges, we offer a wide range of reporting frequency options. A report is generated when your badges or rings are returned to the lab. The options include monthly, bi-monthly, quarterly, and semi-annual reporting. By offering these choices, you can select the reporting frequency according to your requirements, ensuring timely monitoring of radiation exposure levels.