Which organization is typically responsible for setting radiation safety standards?

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is the organization primarily responsible for setting radiation safety standards in the United States. Its primary mission is to regulate commercial nuclear power plants and other uses of nuclear materials to ensure public health and safety, as well as to protect the environment. The NRC establishes regulations that govern the safe handling and disposal of nuclear materials, as well as monitoring radiation exposure for both workers and the public.

The NRC's role includes the development of technical and safety standards specifically related to nuclear power and the use of radioactive materials. This regulatory oversight is critical in maintaining safety protocols and compliance with federal radiation protection laws, which are essential for minimizing radiation risks to health and the environment.

In contrast, while organizations like OSHA and the EPA play important roles in occupational safety and environmental protection, their focuses are broader and not solely dedicated to radiation safety. OSHA regulates workplace safety across various industries, and the EPA oversees environmental sustainability, including setting guidelines for radiation in the context of environmental impacts. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) is also involved in developing standards, but it does not have regulatory authority over radiation safety in the same way that the NRC does. Thus, the NRC is the correct answer regarding the authority responsible for setting radiation safety standards.