At the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Define "radiation"
- Describe non-ionizing radiation and ionizing radiation
- Define gamma radiation
- Describe industrial uses of radiation
- Identify hazards associated with radiation
- Describe how to minimize exposure
The following key questions are answered in this module:
What is radiation?
Energy traveling through space in the form of waves (or particles).
What are the two broad types of radiation?
Ionizing and non-ionizing.
Which of the two broad types of radiation can change the structure of other atoms and therefore presents serious health hazards?
Ionizing radiation, and in particular x-rays and gamma rays.
How is radiation used in industrial and manufacturing settings?
X-rays may be used in a variety of manners. Likewise, gamma rays are often used as sensors and for measurement purposes.
How can I reduce my exposure to radiation at work?
Ensure that the radiation source is shielded, keep your distance, and minimize the amount of time you are near the radiation source.
Below is a transcript of the video sample provided for this module:
This module will focus primarily on issues surrounding relatively small sources of high energy radiation, which are used in censor applications in industrial settings. If radiation is not properly controlled, it can be hazardous to the health of workers. Radiation may be defined as energy traveling through space and can be classified into two broad categories, ionizing and non-ionizing. Ionization is the process in which a charged portion of a molecule, usually an electron, is given enough energy to break away from the atom. This process changed the atomic structure of the molecule and results in the formation of two charged particles called ions. The term radiation is commonly associated with radioactivity which refers to a substance which gives off ionizing radiation.
Use the additional resources and links below to learn more about this topic:
- U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) – www.osha.gov
- OSHA Safety & Health Training Topics – http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/radiation/
- OSHA Safety and Health Topics - https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/radiationionizing/
- OSHA Safety and Health Topics - https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/radiation_nonionizing/index.html