Radioactive contamination

• • Radioactive contamination is unwanted presence of materials containing radioactive atoms
  • Decay of radioactive atoms causes hazard from contamination
  • Type of radiation emitted affects hazard levels
• • Irridation is exposing objects to nuclear radiation
  • The irridated does not become radioactive
  • Using leadlined boxes, standing behind barriers, using remote controlled arms reduce effects of irridation
• Preventing contamination:

  • Gloves and tongs can be used when handling sources to stop particles touching human
  • Protective suits can be used to stop breathing in particles
• • High levels of irridation from beta and gamma are the most dangerous - can penetrate body and get to organs
  • Contamination is hazard when working with alpha sources - do damage in localised areas