What is the purpose of a pocket dosimeter?

A pocket dosimeter is specifically designed to measure an individual's exposure to ionizing radiation over a specified period. This small, portable device provides a convenient way for workers, especially in fields like nuclear power, healthcare (radiology), and research, to monitor their radiation exposure continuously and ensure it remains within safe limits.

The use of a pocket dosimeter is critical in occupational settings where radiation is present, as it provides real-time feedback to allay health concerns and promote safety in the workplace. By keeping track of cumulative radiation doses, dosimeters help facilities comply with regulatory standards and protect employees from potential harmful effects.

In contrast, other choices represent various occupational health and safety measures, but none pertain to the measurement of radiation exposure. For instance, measuring employee exposure to noise would typically use sound level meters or dosimeters specific for acoustic monitoring. Tracking employee hours worked does not involve the measurement of radiation at all, nor does evaluating an employee's physical fitness levels. Each of these functions serves a specific purpose but does not relate to the function of a pocket dosimeter, making the selection of the option related to radiation exposure the best choice.