irradiation and contamination

• What are the two main concerns when working with radiation?

  Exposure to radiation and physical contact
• What can ionising radiation do to living cells?

  It can damage cells or cause cancer
• What is the term for exposure to radiation?

  Irradiation
• What does irradiating an object mean?

  It means the object is exposed to radiation
• What are some ways to reduce irradiation?

  Use lead-lined boxes and barriers
• What is contamination in the context of radiation?

  Radioactive particles getting onto objects
• What happens if you touch a radioactive source without gloves?

  Your hands would be contaminated
• Why is contamination especially dangerous?

  Particles could get inside your body
• What should be used when handling radioactive sources?

  Gloves and tongs
• Why do some industrial workers wear protective suits?

  To prevent breathing in radioactive particles
• How does the danger of radiation depend on its type?

  Different types cause varying amounts of harm
• Which sources are most dangerous outside the body?

  Alpha and gamma sources
• Why is alpha radiation less dangerous outside the body?

  It cannot penetrate the skin
• What is a major concern when working with alpha sources?

  Skin irradiation
• How do beta sources affect the body compared to alpha sources?

  Beta sources cause damage over a wider area
• Why are gamma sources the least dangerous inside the body?

  They mostly pass straight out of the body
• Why is it important to communicate information about radiation?

  To improve safety and protection measures
• What happens to alpha sources if they enter the body?

  They can cause localized damage
• Why are beta and gamma sources more dangerous outside the body?

  They can penetrate the skin and damage cells
• What are the differences in danger levels of radiation types inside and outside the body?

  • Outside the body:
  • Alpha and gamma are most dangerous
  • Alpha cannot penetrate skin
  • Inside the body:
  • Alpha is most dangerous due to localized damage
  • Beta is less damaging, spreads over wider area
  • Gamma is least dangerous, mostly exits body
• What is the significance of peer-reviewed research on radiation?

  • Ensures accuracy and reliability
  • Leads to accepted data and practices
  • Improves safety in using radioactive sources