IEEE N42.20-1995

N42.20-1995 is an ANSI performance criteria standard for active personnel radiation monitors, written for nuclear engineering applications where dependable detection and measurement of radiation exposure are essential. It addresses the technical expectations for monitor performance so facilities can compare equipment more consistently and support safer operations. For organizations handling personnel screening or controlled-area access, N42.20-1995 provides a useful reference for evaluating whether a monitor is suited to its intended protective role.

Overview of N42.20-1995

This standard focuses on performance criteria for active personnel radiation monitors, a category of equipment used to detect radiation on or from individuals rather than to measure general workplace conditions. In the context of nuclear engineering, that distinction matters because monitor response, reliability, and consistency can affect operational control and exposure management. N42.20-1995 is therefore relevant when specifying, reviewing, or comparing systems intended for personnel monitoring duties.

Typical use cases

N42.20-1995 is commonly used when selecting or assessing radiation monitors at entry and exit points for controlled areas, contamination-control stations, and other personnel screening locations. It may also support procurement and acceptance testing for facilities that rely on active monitoring during routine access checks, maintenance work, or decontamination activities. In nuclear engineering environments, the standard helps align equipment expectations with operational safety practices.

Why it matters

Using N42.20-1995 as a reference can improve consistency in equipment selection and performance review, especially where personnel protection depends on timely and reliable detection. It helps reduce uncertainty in procurement, testing, and design control by giving buyers and operators a common technical basis. Because the document is marked superseded, it is also important for legacy systems, archival review, and understanding older compliance requirements tied to active personnel radiation monitors.

• Active personnel radiation monitors
• ANSI performance criteria
• Personnel screening applications
• Nuclear engineering use
• Legacy compliance reference