What does ALARA stand for in radiation safety practice?

• A. As Low As Reasonably Achievable
• B. As Low As Reasonably Assessed
• C. Always Limit And Reduce Accidents
• D. Approximate Levels At Radiography

Answer: (A)

ALARA stands for keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable. This principle guides how we handle every imaging task: justify the exam, optimize technique to preserve diagnostic quality, use shielding and collimation, minimize exposure time, maximize distance when possible, and apply the lowest practical tube current and exposure settings. It emphasizes balancing the benefit of the imaging against potential harm, while also considering practical factors like cost and societal impact. The other phrases don’t reflect the established terminology or concept used in radiation safety—for example, they don’t describe the intentional optimization of dose in imaging. ALARA is about continuous dose reduction while maintaining necessary diagnostic information, not about eliminating all exposure or applying a vague standard.