Radioactive Contamination & Irridation

• What is radioactive contamination?

  Unwanted presence of radioactive materials
• What causes the hazard from contamination?

  Radioactive decay of the containing atoms
• How does the type of radiation emitted affect the hazard level?

  It influences the hazard level from contamination
• What is irradiation?

  Deliberately exposing an object to radiation
• What can irradiation change in an object?

  Its properties or sterilize it by killing bacteria
• What happens to an irradiated object regarding radioactivity?

  It does not become radioactive
• What must be true for an irradiated object to remain safe for use?

  It must not be contaminated with radioactive materials
• What are the key differences between radioactive contamination and irradiation?

  • Radioactive contamination:
  • Unwanted presence of radioactive materials
  • Hazard due to radioactive decay
  • Irradiation:
  • Deliberate exposure to radiation
  • Changes properties or sterilizes without making it radioactive