Table 16.7 - Exposures to human-induced sources expressed as equivalent periods of exposure to natural sources

Source: UNSCEAR, 1993

Source Basis Equivalent period of exposure
to natural sources
Medical exposures One year of practice at the current rate 90 days
Nuclear weapons tests Completed practice 2.3 years
Nuclear power Total practice to date 10 days
One year of practice at the current rate* 1 day
Severe accidents Events to date 20 days
Occupational exposures One year of practice at the current rate 8 hours

*Note: This is not the dose received in one year but the cumulative effects of discharges taking place in one year.