3.4.1 Individual Protection

There are approximately 11 million radiation workers worldwide, (IAEA/NSR/2002, 2003). Standards of radiological protection in the nuclear industry are very high and are probably more advanced than those in practice in the non-nuclear industry. The science is also very mature although there is some need for greater harmonisation of terminology, quantities and units. The IAEA works closely with employers, regulators and workers through the International Labour Organisation (ILO) in the continuing development of safety standards for occupational protection. The agency is also involved with radiological protection of individuals in general, including for example the protection of patients undergoing radiology.