How Personal Electronic Dosimeters Gen 2 strengthen radiation safety in Europe

Radiation exposure remains a serious concern for firefighters, police forces, and hazardous material (HAZMAT) teams. These teams may respond to incidents involving unknown or unexpected radioactive sources. While such events are uncommon, preparedness is essential to protect personnel and meet regulatory requirements.

Personal Electronic Dosimeters (PEDs) play a vital role in radiation safety for first responders. They provide accurate radiation measurements and record dose exposure, helping teams stay within safe limits and make informed decisions during critical situations.

Reliable radiation monitors help teams respond to industrial incidents, suspected radiological threats, or contaminated sites. With these radiation detection devices, they can work confidently, knowing they are protected from hidden dangers.

For many years, emergency services across the UK and Europe have relied on Tracerco’s first-generation od Personal Electronic Dosimeters (PEDs) to support radiation safety. These devices have proven their reliability in the field, often remaining operational for well over a decade. Building on this experience, Tracerco developed the second-generation PED2 range, designed to meet today’s operational and reporting needs while retaining the simplicity that first responders depend on.

Choosing the right Tracerco's Personal Electronic Dosimeter: PED2 Blue or PED2+

Selecting the right radiation monitor depends on how it will be used in the field. Across Europe, emergency response teams now deploy PED2 Blue and PED2+ to suit different operational requirements.

• PED2 Blue is a simple, robust personal electronic dosimeter designed for accurate measurement of X-ray and gamma radiation. With real-time dose and dose rate monitoring, it is an ideal choice for emergency responders who require a reliable, hassle-free, and quickly deployable radiation monitor. 

• PED2+ combines personal dosimetry with handheld survey capabilities in a single device. In addition to dose monitoring, it supports GPS logging when used with Tracerco’s DoseVision apps for reporting and visualisation on Android and Apple platforms. This makes it suitable for police and HAZMAT teams that require broader situational awareness and post-incident analysis.

Fire services often favour the PED2 Blue for its straightforward operation, while police and HAZMAT teams frequently select the PED2+ for its added functionality.

Centralised monitoring with Tracerco™ DoseVision2 software

Tracerco™ DoseVision2 is a cloud-based dosimetry management platform designed to support efficient radiation safety oversight. It enables organisations to review exposure data, track device history, and manage alarm settings across multiple PEDs from a central interface.

For departments managing multiple devices, this supports better compliance, clearer reporting, and improved readiness for radiological emergencies.

Built to last: Reliable radiation monitoring when it matters most

Unlike standard personal protective equipment, Radiation monitors are often stored for long periods, only being used during radiological emergencies. When that moment comes, responders must be confident that their equipment is ready to perform.

Tracerco designed its PED2 based on decades of field experience with PED Gen 1. The interface remains intentionally simple, allowing personnel to use the radiation detection device effectively with minimal instruction, even in stressful situations. The design prioritises durability and long service life, reflecting how emergency services operate.

Built for durability, many Personal Electronic Dosimeters remain in service for over 15 years without performance degradation. With Tracerco’s ongoing calibration support and the Guardian Service Agreement, PED2 devices are built to deliver reliable radiation monitoring throughout their operational life. These options give users extra peace of mind, ensuring optimal performance of their personal electronic dosimeters.

Why more first responders across Europe choose Tracerco PED2

In the UK and Europe, fire services, police, and emergency teams need radiation monitoring equipment that is dependable, intuitive, and fit for purpose. PED2 builds on the proven performance of earlier Tracerco dosimeters while offering enhanced capability where required.

Tracerco’s PED2 Blue and PED2+ provide trusted radiation detection solutions for emergency response teams. They provide solutions that fit various operational needs. With long service life and minimal maintenance, they offer reliable protection when it matters most.

With PED2 Blue and PED2+, organisations can select the level of functionality that matches their response profile, without sacrificing reliability or simplicity. These devices help first responders feel sure and act quickly in critical situations. Whether stored for long periods or deployed at short notice, PED2 devices are designed to perform exactly as expected when it matters most.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.     What is the function of Personal Electronic Dosimeter (PED)

A Personal Electronic Dosimeter is a portable device that measures and records radiation dose in real time. It helps ensure that first responders, industrial workers, and other personnel remain within safe exposure limits when working in environments where radiation may be present.

2.     Why are Personal Electronic Dosimeters important for first responders?

First responders such as firefighters, police officers, and hazardous material teams may encounter unexpected radiation hazards. A reliable dosimeter allows them to monitor exposure, make informed safety decisions, and respond effectively while maintaining radiation protection standards during incidents.

3.     What distinguishes Tracerco’s PED2 Blue from the PED2+ model?

PED2 Blue is designed for straightforward dose and dose rate monitoring, offering a simple and durable solution for general emergency response. PED2+ provides additional capability as both a dosimeter and survey meter, with GPS logging supported through DoseVision applications for enhanced reporting and visualisation.