Radiation Safety

Ionizing Radiation Safety Basics

Understanding radiation safety principles when conducting research around ionizing radiation is crucial to protect workers, the public and the environment from its harmful effects. Whether the source of ionizing radiation is from radioactive material or an X-ray source, it is crucial that precautions are taken to keep exposures As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA).

• Time: Reducing your time near the source of radiation will reduce your overall exposure and will reduce the probability of chronic effects from exposure.
• Distance: Increasing the distance between yourself and the source will reduce your overall exposure and will reduce the probability of chronic effects from exposure.
• Shielding: Placing shielding between yourself and the source of ionizing radiation will reduce your overall exposure and will reduce the probability of chronic effects from exposure. The need for shielding depends on the type of ionizing radiation being produced, the energy of the ionizing radiation and the activity. It is important to track the exposure you receive if you work with radioactive materials or x-ray devices. Purdue EHS provides researchers with dosimeters (to track their radiation dose), facilitates the distribution and analysis of these devices, and determines which projects require dosimetry as a part of their research.
• Inventory Tracking and Security: Keeping track of and securing radioactive material inventory is essential to reducing the probability of loss, diversion or theft of radioactive materials. Principal investigators are responsible for securing and verifying their radioactive materials inventory with Purdue EHS on an annual basis.

Contact

Environmental Health and Safety
researchsafety@purdue.edu
765-494-6371