What is the primary function of a whole-body counter?

The primary function of a whole-body counter is to detect contamination in internal organs. This specialized instrument is designed to identify and quantify radioactive materials that may have been absorbed into the body. Whole-body counters utilize highly sensitive detection methods, often based on gamma spectroscopy, to measure the radiation emitted from radioactive isotopes that have settled in tissues and organs. This capability is crucial for ensuring that individuals working with or around radioactive materials are not accruing unsafe levels of internal radiation exposure, which can pose serious health risks. By performing these measurements, health physicists can assess the internal contamination levels of workers and implement necessary protective measures or medical interventions if contamination is detected.