Study of uncertainty budget components in X-ray and gamma radiation dosimetry

Dosimetry of X-ray and gamma radiation is widely used in medicine. The accuracy of measurements and their reproducibility directly affect the efficiency and safety of using radiation in radiotherapy and clinical diagnostics. Problems caused by the instability of radiation sources, environmental parameters, and the complexity of calibrating dosimetry chambers remain unresolved. In view of a growing need to standardize dosimetry measurements of X-ray and gamma radiation, international and national laboratories are conducting interlaboratory comparisons. This process allows for the evaluation of a laboratory’s capabilities and the development of practical approaches to improve the unification of standards and minimize the measurement uncertainty. The results of international comparisons were analysed. The components of the uncertainty budget when measuring the operational quantities of X-ray and gamma radiation were compared. Recommendations for reducing uncertainties and improving the measurement accuracy are proposed. Finally, the uncertainty budget of the NSC “Institute of Metrology” was compared with those of other laboratories participating in the comparison.