Final answer:
In the context of x-ray systems, the x-ray workload (W) refers to how much the equipment is used, considering aspects like exposure time and system settings, rather than solely reflecting beam energy or intensity. An increase in radiation exposure to workers can occur in medical fields and industries that frequently use x-ray technology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The x-ray workload (W) refers to the use of an x-ray system, which can encompass several factors, including the total time of exposures, number of exposures, and the current (milliamperage) used. In this context, the term 'workload' does not specifically relate to the energy of x-rays emitted (a), the duration of exposure to x-rays (b), the amount of radiation absorbed by patients (c), or the intensity of the x-ray beam (d). Instead, it broadly denotes the extent to which the x-ray equipment is used. Also, the workload is relevant when assessing the level of protective measures needed for radiation safety.
Occupations that may cause an increase in radiation exposure for a worker include radiologists, radiologic technologists, medical physicists, and other medical personnel who operate x-ray equipment or are present in procedure rooms. Industrial radiography and certain types of scientific research that use x-ray technology can also increase exposure. Eliminating unnecessary exposures and using protective equipment like lead shields can mitigate some of these risks.