6.4.2.4 Radioactive Contamination Flashcards
1
Q
What is radioactive contamination?
A
- unwanted presence of materials containing radioactive atoms on other materials
2
Q
What is the hazard of radioactive contamination?
A
- contamination by alpha radiation is especially damaging
- damages localised areas
3
Q
What affects the level of hazard?
A
- type of radiation emitted
4
Q
What is irradiation?
A
- process of exposing an object to nuclear radiation
- does not make something radioactive
5
Q
What are the hazards of irradiation?
A
- especially dangerous if irradiation is from a source that emits beta and gamma radiation
- can penetrate body and get into organs (unlike alpha)
6
Q
How do you reduce the effects of irradiation?
A
- lead-lined boxes
- standing behind barriers or in different rooms
- using remote-controlled arms
7
Q
How do you reduce the effects of radioactive contamination?
A
- gloves and tongs (prevents particles getting stuck to skin/under nails)
- protective suits (prevents breathing in)
