Radiation Shielding
Tungsten vs Lead: The Benefits of Each
When it comes to radiation protection, selecting the right shielding material is crucial to ensure safety and compliance. Two of the most commonly used materials are tungsten and lead, each offering distinct advantages depending on the application. Tungsten: The Modern Choice for Precision and Safety Tungsten shielding is highly valued in applications where precision is…
Read MoreUnderstanding Gamma and Alpha Radiation
Radiation protection is a critical need in industries and environments where exposure to radioactive materials is a risk. Two of the most common types of radiation are gamma and alpha radiation, and each presents unique challenges that require specific protective measures. By taking the time to understand the differences between gamma and alpha radiation and…
Read MoreIs Radiation Ever Good For You?
The majority of the time, we view ionizing forms of radiation as dangerous – and that’s a good premise to hold. In high doses, or in low exposure doses over an extended period of time, ionizing radiation damages DNA, which leads to defects, cancer, and other radiation-related illnesses. The flip side of that story is…
Read MoreUV Radiation: What You Need to Know
There is no way to avoid sources of radiation if you live on planet earth. From the ultra-violet (UV) radiation we’re exposed to from the sun to cosmic, micro- and other forms of radiation – we encounter small and manageable radioactive doses as a part of daily life. Fortunately, a little education and some basic,…
Read MoreWhat You Need to Know About X-Ray Backscatter Scanners and Safety
The good news for most Americans is that X-ray backscatter scanners are no longer used in airports, and therefore, they are no longer a source of daily radiation for regular travelers. Whether these devices were a threat – and how much of a risk they posed – has yet to be determined. In the meantime,…
Read MoreWhat Are the Three Principles of Radiation Protection
Radiation protection is a critical aspect of safety in various industries, especially nuclear energy and healthcare. This article expands upon the three fundamental principles of radiation safety, grounded in the broader paradigm of ALARA (As Low as Reasonably Achievable), a concept widely recognized in radiation safety protocols. The principle of ALARA was established as a…
Read MoreIs Microwave Radiation Dangerous?
Microwaves have been around since the 1960s, but they have long-suffered from erroneous suspicions that their radioactive mechanisms are harmful. This is understandable since the word radiation inspires caution and fear for many. However, microwaves operate using non-ionizing radiation. This means it doesn’t harm or scramble cellular DNA, nor does it leave any radioactive residue…
Read MorePotassium Iodide, Your Thyroid & Radiation Protection
There are people all over the world who keep non-expired doses of potassium iodide on hand to protect themselves in the case of a nuclear fallout or related radioactive disaster. They do this as a proactive way of protecting themselves in case a nuclear emergency involves the presence of radioactive iodine – frequently released in…
Read MoreTypes of Radiation Protection via Shielding
The first step in providing radiation protection for the public, employees or those exposed via a specific, radioactive accident is to minimize exposure in terms of quantity of radiation and the length of time victims are exposed. In the case of nuclear fallout, this is easier said than done. However, if you work in a…
Read MoreWhat is a Radiation Safety Officer? Responsibilities, Training, and Salary
Any company or business requiring employees to work with or around radiation and/or radioactive materials should have a clear Radiation Safety Program in place, and that program is traditionally led by a designated (qualified) Radiation Safety Officer. If your company is registered with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), you are required to have a designated…
Read More