Hazards and Protection

Ionising radiation can damage atoms and molecules inside living tissue. If important biological molecules such as DNA are damaged, cells may malfunction or die.

Radiation risk depends on: type of radiation; energy; activity of the source; exposure time; distance from source; shielding; * absorbed dose.

Time Reduce unnecessary exposure time. Distance Increasing distance from a source generally reduces exposure. Shielding Use suitable shielding for the radiation type. Different radiation types require different shielding because their penetrating abilities differ.

Irradiation means being exposed to radiation from a source. Contamination means radioactive material is present on or inside an object or person. These are different hazards.

Radioactive materials should only be handled through trained, regulated procedures.