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Workplace / Activity / Equipment: Ionising Radiation

Script

Ionising radiation (IR) is electromagnetic (EM) radiation whose waves contain energy sufficient to
overcome the binding energy of electrons in atoms or molecules, thus creating ions. The wavelength is
shorter than that of ultraviolet (UV). Ionising radiation is dangerous because it damages the internal
structures of living cells. This can cause cell death in high doses over a short period of time, and errors in
the reproductive process (mutations) in lower doses over longer periods of time

The use of IR covers the use of radioactive materials and radiation generators in work activities.
IR can occur as a barrage of photons having a nature similar to that of visible light, but with far shorter
wavelength and consequently higher frequency. This type of radiation includes X rays and gamma rays.

More massive particles also emit ionising radiation. These include high-speed electrons (beta particles),
protons, neutrons, and helium nuclei (alpha particles).

Workplace exposure must be strictly limited, controlled and monitored.

Many people routinely work in situations which could expose them to IR. This includes exposure to
Radon, which is the most common form of exposure as well as exposure to X-rays, gamma Rays and
nuclear contamination. Consider-
o Industrial radiography
o Manufacturing
o Research/laboratory activities
o Use of X-ray equipment in medical and veterinary practices

Sealed sources
As the term suggests the source is contained in such a way that the radioactive material cannot be
released, for example an X-ray machine. The source of radiation can be a piece of radioactive material
such as cobalt that is sealed in a container or held in another material that is not radioactive. It is usually
solid and the container and any bonding material are considered the source.

Unsealed sources
Unsealed sources may take a variety of forms-gases, liquids and particulates. Because they are unsealed,
entry into the body is comparatively easy.

Protection against radiation

The key to radiation protection lies in understanding the nature of the radioactive hazard. The different
types of radiation can be blocked or shielded by different types of material.
For instance alpha particles can be stopped by a sheet of paper, compared with beta radiation which
requires a sheet of metal. Similarly gamma radiation requires the density of lead.

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Protection against external radiation

Protection against external radiation is achieved through the application of 3 principles:

Shielding
Distance
Time

In practice use is made of all three.

Shielding involves the placing of some material between the person and source to absorb the radiation
completely or partially. The materials chosen will depend upon the radiation type and energy level.

Distance involves ensuring that the exposed worker does not come within certain distances of radiation
sources and may be achieved by the use of restricted areas, barriers or similar controls. The effect of
radiation is reduced by the distance from the source, and if the distance is doubled, the dose is reduced
by a quarter. This is known as the inverse square law.

Time is used to protect workers on the basis of limiting their exposure to predetermined limits.

Protection against internal radiation

Protection against exposure from internal radiation is achieved by preventing the intake of radioactive
material through ingestion, inhalation and absorption through skin. Eating, drinking, and smoking should
not be carried out in areas where unsealed radioactive materials are used. The degree of containment
necessary depends upon the quantity and type of material being handled.

Where workers are liable to be exposed to ionising radiation, exposures must be kept as low as
reasonably practicable and not exceed legal limits.

Employers are also required to take a wide range of measures including the provision of information,
instruction, training, monitoring dosimetry, medical surveillance and supervision.

NatWest Mentor Issue 2: 20170309

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Toolbox Talk - Ionising Radiation

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NatWest Mentor Issue 2: 20170309