Radiation Safety

The type of radiation

Ionizing Radiation is energy released by electromagnetic waves and/or particulate radiation with enough energy to break chemical bonds in molecules or remove tightly bound electrons from atoms. Examples include: X-ray, alpha and beta emitters, and gamma radiation.

Radio Frequency (RF) Radiation is non ionizing radiation between the frequencies of 300 kHz and 100 GHz. Thermal affects are the main health hazard.  Example industrial applications include heat sealers and high frequency welders.

Electric and Magnetic Field (EMF) Radiation is electric and magnetic forces surrounding any electrical device.  Research has found potential health affects associated with high levels of EMF.

Each facility or factory must have a documented risk assessment performed which includes as a minimum:

1. Identification of sources of radiation and related hazards.
2. Evaluation of risk associated with hazards.
3. Identification of control measures required to reduce or eliminate risk of exposure (e.g., monitoring, guarding, personal protective equipment).

Each facility must have implemented procedures to reduce or eliminate the risk of bodily injury which must cover, as a minimum, the following:

1. Radiation sources must be designed with guarding and interlocks to prevent overexposure.
2. Annual occupational radiation exposure for an individual is not to exceed 3 rem per year.
3. Restrict area to authorized personnel only.
4. Signage and postings in radiation areas.
5. Medical surveillance for high exposure employees or as required by regulations.
6. Response(s) to damaged source.
7. Job specific procedures for handling or working with radiation sources.
8. Emergency procedures.
9. Maintenance and calibration of radiating equipment according to manufacturer’s recommendations.
10. Work practices that minimize radiation exposure.

Training

Radiation Safety Awareness: Affected employees must receive awareness level training at the time

of initial assignment. Training must cover as a minimum:

1. Affects of radiation.
2. Specific hazards to which employees may be exposed and how those hazards are controlled
3. Safe work practices.
4. Emergency procedures.

Radiation Safety:  Employees working directly with radiation sources must receive initial training and annually thereafter. Training must cover as a minimum:

1. Types of radiation present at the facility. 
2. Potential hazards of exposure to radiation sources present at the facility.