Final answer:
The recommended occupational radiation dose equivalent limit for stochastic effects to the whole body for radiation workers is typically 50 mSv (5 rem) per year.
Step-by-step explanation:
The occupational radiation dose equivalent limit for stochastic effects to the whole body, as recommended by international guidelines, is typically 50 mSv (5 rem) per year for radiation workers. However, it is important to note that limits may vary in some countries or for specific industries.
Stochastic effects refer to long-term, low-level exposure effects such as an increased risk of cancer, which have a probabilistic nature and do not have a threshold dose; hence, they can occur at any level of radiation but with higher probabilities at higher doses.
The Sievert (Sv) is the unit used to quantitatively express the risk of radiation; it reflects the dose equivalent by taking into account the type of radiation and its biological effect (RBE).
For example, 1 Sv is equal to 100 rem, and occupational exposure must be managed within these limits through the use of shielding, distance, and time to reduce radiation dose risks.