Radiationprotection

Radiation protection is the field focused on protecting people and the environment from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation. It covers assessment, regulation, and practical measures across healthcare, industry, research, and energy production. The goal is to keep exposures as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA) while enabling beneficial uses of radiation.

Key concepts include justification for any exposure, planning and optimization, and dose limits for workers and the public. Ionizing radiation includes alpha, beta, gamma, X-ray, and neutron radiation. Doses are measured as absorbed dose (gray, Gy); the effect depends on radiation type and tissue, so the protection quantity used is the effective dose (sievert, Sv).

Protection methods emphasize time minimization, distance, and shielding; use of shielding materials such as lead or concrete; containment and ventilation; monitoring with dosimeters and area monitors; and licensing, training, and safety culture. In medicine, radiation protection applies to radiology, nuclear medicine, and interventional procedures with dose optimization and justification of tests. In industry, it covers non-destructive testing and radiography; in research, it involves handling sealed sources and radiochemical work.

International guidance is provided by organizations such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), as well as national authorities. Standards aim to harmonize dose limits and protective measures. Public and environmental protection includes routine monitoring, environmental radioactivity assessments, and decontamination when needed to prevent or limit long-term effects.