What is the TEDE limit for federal workers?

The TEDE (Total Effective Dose Equivalent) limit for federal workers is set at 5 rem (0.05 Sv) per year as established by the regulations put forth by agencies such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and the Department of Energy (DOE). This annual limit is designed to ensure that radiation exposure for occupational workers remains within safe limits to minimize the risk of potential health effects from ionizing radiation.

By setting the threshold at 5 rem/year, regulatory bodies take into account various factors such as the types of radiation exposure, the duration of exposure, and individual susceptibility to radiation effects. This limit is considered a balance between allowing necessary radiation exposure for work purposes—such as in medical, research, and nuclear fields—and protecting workers' health and safety.

In comparison, the lower limits provided in other answer choices do not reflect the occupational exposure guidelines established for federal workers, as they are either too restrictive or not applicable for general radiation safety standards. The 5 rem/year limit is an important guideline that supports the ongoing commitment to safeguarding the health of workers while enabling them to perform their designated tasks effectively.