Radiation Converter
Convert between sieverts, rem, grays, and rads.
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Radiation: absorbed dose (Gy) vs equivalent dose (Sv). Older US units: rad and rem. Essential for radiation safety and medical imaging.
Absorbed vs Equivalent Dose
Gy = energy deposited. Sv = biological effect (accounts for radiation type). 1 Gy alpha = 20 Sv equivalent.
Background Radiation
Average: 2.4 mSv/yr natural. Chest X-ray: 0.02 mSv. CT scan: 2–20 mSv.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select 'Radiation'
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- Select your source unit
Pick the unit you're converting from.
- Enter the value
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- Select your target unit
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Applications
Medical Imaging
Dental X-ray: 0.005 mSv. Chest CT: 7 mSv. Convert to rem (1 mSv = 100 mrem) for US compliance.
Occupational Safety
Annual limit: 20 mSv (2 rem) averaged over 5 years, max 50 mSv (5 rem) in one year.
Nuclear Industry
Workers track dose in mSv. US regs use rem. Converting is routine for international operations.
Radiation Safety in Medical Settings
In medical settings, radiation safety is critical to protect patients and healthcare workers from unnecessary exposure. The Radiation Converter can help determine the appropriate level of shielding for medical equipment and facilities, ensuring that patients receive safe and effective treatment while minimizing exposure to radiation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you convert Sv to rem?
Multiply by 100. 5 mSv = 500 mrem. 1 Sv = 100 rem.
How do you convert Gy to rad?
Multiply by 100. 2 Gy = 200 rad.
Safe radiation level?
Public: 1 mSv/yr above background. Workers: 20 mSv/yr avg. Sydney-London flight: ~0.1 mSv.
How do you convert radiation levels to risk?
Risk is calculated based on the type and intensity of radiation, as well as the duration of exposure. For example, a high dose of ionizing radiation over a short period of time can be more dangerous than a lower dose spread out over a longer time.
How does the converter account for different types of radiation?
The converter accounts for different types of radiation by using conversion factors provided by reputable sources such as the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering.