26.3 - Dangers of Radiation

Question 1

What is a typical dental X-ray dose equal to?

Answer 1

3 days worth of background radiation

Question 2

How about a medical x-ray scan?

Answer 2

10 days of background radiation

Question 3

Why should the use of x-rays be limited where possible?

Answer 3

Because radiation exposure is accumulative

Question 4

What are 6 precautions to use in the lab when dealing with a radioactive source?

Answer 4

• Keep as far away as possible from the source (at least 30cm)
• Do not touch the source, use a handling tool
• Keep sources in their lead storage box until they are required
• Keep the source pointed way from the body, especially
  the eyes
• Limit the time sources are used for
• Wash hands after working with a radioactive source

Question 5

What should people likely to be exposed to higher dosages wear?

Answer 5

Lead aprons