What is the annual equivalent dose limit for the hands and feet?

The annual equivalent dose limit for the hands and feet is indeed set at 500 mSv per year. This limit is established to ensure adequate protection for individuals who may be exposed to higher levels of radiation in specific occupational settings, such as in medical dosimetry or radiological procedures. The hands and feet receive such exposure due to close proximity to radiation sources or during procedures that involve direct contact with radioactive materials.

Setting this limit at 500 mSv reflects a balancing act between allowing sufficient occupational exposure for the sake of necessary medical treatments and research, while still prioritizing the health and safety of the individuals performing these tasks. This limit recognizes the need for monitoring and controlling radiation doses to prevent potential harmful effects, such as radiation-induced injuries or long-term health consequences, while accommodating the realities of specific occupational risks.

In contrast, the other values presented are higher than what is currently accepted for safety standards in most jurisdictions, which typically do not endorse such elevated exposure limits for the hands and feet.