Types of Ionizing Radiation
X-Rays
Because of their use in medicine, almost everyone has heard of x-rays. X-rays are like gamma rays in that they are photons of pure energy. X-rays and gamma rays have the same basic properties but come from different parts of the atom.
X-rays are emitted from processes outside the nucleus, but gamma rays originate inside the nucleus. They also are generally lower in energy and therefore less penetrating than gamma rays. X-rays can be produced naturally or by machines using electricity.
Thousands of x-ray machines are used daily in medical and dental procedures. Computerized tomography (CT or CAT scan) uses special x-ray equipment to make detailed bone and soft tissue images in the body. Medical x-rays are the single largest source of human-made radiation exposure.
Staff members can often be exposed to radiation from portable and fixed x-ray machines during diagnostic procedures. X-ray exposure can cause the following health issues:
- Acute
- Erythema and dermatitis
- Large whole-body exposures cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and death
- Chronic
- Skin cancer and bone marrow suppression
- Genetic effects may lead to congenital disabilities in the employee's offspring
Radiation exposure occurs when unprotected employees are near a machine in operation. The degree of exposure depends on the amount of radiation, duration of exposure, distance from the source, and the type of shielding in place.
Here are some possible solutions from OSHA when working with x-ray machines:
- Film Badge: Passive dosimeter for personal exposure monitoring should be worn whenever working with x-ray equipment, radioactive patients, or radioactive materials. Depending on the work situation, body badges may be worn at collar level, chest level, or waist level.
- Double-Badging: Personnel who work in high-dose fluoroscopy settings may be asked to wear two badges for additional monitoring.
- Ring badges: Used for measuring beta and gamma doses to the hand, they should be worn closest to the radiation source.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-3. Which of the following is an acute health effect of large whole-body exposure to x-rays?
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