Safety precautions

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Introduction

Ionising radiation is powerful and has many uses, but it also poses significant risks if not handled properly. In this section, we will learn about the effects of ionising radiation on living things, how radioactive materials are safely moved, used, and stored, and the safety precautions that are necessary to protect against radiation.

Effects of ionising radiation on living things

Ionising radiation has enough energy to knock electrons out of atoms, which can lead to significant changes in living cells. These effects depend on the type and amount of radiation exposure. Here are the main effects:

Cell Death: High doses of ionising radiation can kill cells directly. This is why it is used in radiotherapy to destroy cancer cells, but if healthy cells are exposed, it can cause damage and tissue loss.
Mutations: Ionising radiation can cause changes in the DNA of cells. These changes are called mutations and can result in incorrect cell function or growth. Mutations in reproductive cells can also be passed on to offspring, causing genetic defects.
Cancer: Prolonged or high levels of radiation exposure can lead to cancer. Radiation can damage the DNA of cells in such a way that they start to divide uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumours.

Safe handling of radioactive materials

Radioactive materials need to be handled carefully to avoid accidental exposure. Here are some ways they are moved, used, and stored in a safe manner:

Transportation: Radioactive materials are transported in specially designed containers that prevent the escape of radiation. These containers are made from thick lead or other materials to provide effective shielding.
Usage: When radioactive materials are used in laboratories or industrial settings, they are handled using remote tools or manipulators to keep the user at a safe distance from the source. Additionally, the materials are used in shielded environments to limit exposure.
Storage: Radioactive substances are stored in secure lead-lined containers to contain the radiation. These containers are kept in designated storage areas that are labelled with warning signs to alert people of the radiation hazard.

Safety precautions for ionising radiation

Safety is paramount when working with ionising radiation. The following three principles are crucial to minimizing radiation exposure:

Reducing Exposure Time:
- The less time you spend near a radioactive source, the lower your exposure will be.
- Workers dealing with radioactive materials should minimize the time they are exposed to radiation to reduce their dose.
Increasing Distance:
- Distance plays an important role in radiation safety. The intensity of radiation decreases rapidly with increased distance from the source. This is known as the inverse square law.
- Tools such as tongs and remote handling equipment are used to increase the distance between the person and the radiation source.
Using Shielding:
- Radiation can be absorbed by materials, which is why shielding is used to block or reduce radiation.
- Different types of radiation require different types of shielding:
  - Alpha Radiation: Easily blocked by a sheet of paper or gloves.
  - Beta Radiation: Requires a few millimetres of aluminium to be blocked effectively.
  - Gamma Radiation: Requires thick lead or concrete to absorb and reduce exposure.
- Lead aprons or protective clothing may also be used to provide shielding for individuals working with radiation.

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