Radiation and Risk - Radiation is divided into two, ionizing radiation and non-ionizing radiation. Both types of radiation can cause harm to health. Non-ionizing radiation such as radar, infrared and ultra violet (UV) and microwave. Ionising radiation is divided into two, namely particle radiation and electromagnetic radiation. The particle radiations are divided into two types, charged particle radiation as alpha (α) and beta (β), while the uncharged particle radiation like neutrons (n). Electromagnetic radiation are like X-rays and Gamma (γ).
Effects of Ionising Radiation Risk To The Occupational Safety and Health
Acute Exposure - Exposure to high doses in a short period of time. Radiation can cause burns and death.
Chronic exposure - Exposure to low doses over a long time. It is divided into two:
- Somatic Effects: Effects on individuals exposed. (Eg cancer, disability child conceived).
- Genetic Effects: Effects of the child who will be born.
Ionising Radiation Risk Prevention Methods
Any job that uses ionizing radiation (radiation generated by the machines or from radionuclides) can only be made by individuals who have been trained in safe work protocols related to ionizing radiation.
Following ionizing radiation protection principles should be applied in all protocols of safe work and during work:
i. Shield: Using proper shielding to protect your body from radiation, for example:
- Alpha (α) particle does not require shielding to reduce radiation dose, otherwise require personal protective equipment to prevent it enters the body.
- Beta (β) particle can be prevented by using perspex or 6mm thick aluminum.
- Gamma (γ) and X Ray can be prevented by using a shield made of lead with the appropriate thickness.
ii. Time: Shorten the time of exposure to radiation to reduce the dose received.
iii. Distance: Keep away from sources of radiation to reduce the dose received;
- Any work involving ionizing radiation sources shall be carried out in areas that have been set according to the protocol classification work area. The work area must be labeled with the radiation hazard Trifoil.
- Employees of pregnant women need to be moved to another place that is not exposed to ionizing radiation or radionuclides.
