Radiation Safety Flashcards
How is ionizing radiation dangerous?
It removes electrons from atoms, releasing free radicals
In what ways can ionizing radiation affect the body?
Tissue injury, chromosomal damage, and malignancy
How is exposure quantified (unit)?
Roentgen (R)
What is the unit used to relate the human tissue absorption to the effective biological damage of radiation?
roentgen equivalent in man (rem)
What is the yearly maximum radiation exposure for adults?
5 rem
What is the yearly maximum exposure for the fetus of a pregnant worker?
0.5 rem or 0.05 rem/month
What parts of the body are most susceptible to injury?
The fetus (most vulnerable in a pregnant person), eyes, and thyroid
What are the three ways to limit radiation exposure?
Distance, duration, shielding
What is the minimum safe distance from the radiation source?
Six feet
How is exposure quantified in relation to distance?
Intensity = 1/ Distance ^2
