What does a whole body counter measure?
A whole body counter measures gamma radiation emitted from radioactive material inside a person’s body. The person sits, stands, or lies in a shielded counting position while detectors record the radiation spectrum. Software identifies the radionuclides and estimates the amount present, which radiation protection staff use to calculate internal dose. Counts are performed routinely for workers, after suspected intakes, and during emergencies. Detection limits depend on detector type, shielding, counting time, and background radiation, so system design is tailored to each facility’s needs.

Why is nuclear power important to the market?
Nuclear power plants are required to monitor workers for internal contamination, and each plant typically operates one or more whole body counters. Many countries are extending the lives of existing reactors, building new ones, and planning small modular reactors to meet climate and energy security goals. Mirion reported orders up 40% including acquisitions in the second quarter of 2026 and cited growing nuclear power opportunities, which signals rising investment in radiation monitoring. Fuel fabrication, enrichment, reprocessing, and waste management facilities also require internal dose monitoring for their workers.

How do sodium iodide and germanium detectors differ?
Sodium iodide (NaI(Tl)) scintillation detectors are sensitive, relatively inexpensive, and operate at room temperature, making them common in routine screening and portable counters. High-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors offer much better energy resolution, allowing precise identification of radionuclides in mixed contamination, but they need cooling and cost more. Facilities often use NaI systems for screening and HPGe systems for detailed analysis. Digital electronics and improved software have made both types easier to operate and calibrate.

What role do portable systems play?
Portable and mobile whole body counters can be deployed to emergency sites, temporary facilities, or remote locations. After nuclear accidents or radiological incidents, many people may need to be screened quickly, and portable systems support this. Mobile laboratories in vehicles combine counters with other measurement equipment. Some systems are designed to screen children and adults quickly with simplified operation for non-specialist staff.

How are whole body counters used in medicine?
Hospitals use whole body counters to measure retention of radiopharmaceuticals in patients, monitor staff working with radioisotopes in nuclear medicine and radiotherapy, and support research on radionuclide metabolism. Growth in nuclear medicine, including targeted radioligand therapies, increases the use of radioisotopes and the need for monitoring. Research hospitals and universities also use counters in clinical studies of new radiopharmaceuticals.

How does emergency preparedness drive demand?
Governments maintain radiological emergency response capabilities to deal with nuclear accidents, radiological terrorism, or lost sources. After events such as the Fukushima Daiichi accident, many countries invested in whole body counters to screen residents and responders. Defense agencies and civil protection organizations continue to update equipment as part of preparedness plans. Exercises and drills that include whole body counting help maintain readiness and identify equipment gaps.

Who are the main suppliers?
Mirion Technologies, through its Canberra heritage, is a leading supplier of whole body counting systems. Other suppliers include Thermo Fisher Scientific, AMETEK ORTEC, Fuji Electric, Nuvia, Bertin Technologies, Berthold Technologies, Baltic Scientific Instruments, and Polimaster. Many systems are customized to each facility’s requirements. Suppliers often also provide calibration phantoms, software, and training as part of complete systems.

How are whole body counters sold?
Most systems are sold directly by manufacturers to nuclear operators, government agencies, and hospitals through tenders and long procurement processes. Scientific and medical equipment distributors serve smaller customers in some regions. System integrators and radiation protection suppliers provide complete monitoring solutions. Calibration, maintenance, and software updates create service revenue. International agencies sometimes fund equipment for countries developing nuclear programmes.

What challenges face the market?
The market is small and specialized, with long sales cycles and budgets tied to nuclear and government programmes. Delays or cancellations of nuclear projects can reduce demand. Systems require skilled staff to operate and interpret results, and calibration with phantoms is complex. Specialist service providers support customers who lack in-house expertise.

Which whole body counter market segments are growing fastest?
Portable whole body counters; high-purity germanium detector systems; nuclear power plant operators; radiological emergency response; and mobile and temporary emergency deployment are the fastest-growing segments.