Stralingsbeveiliging

Stralingsbeveiliging, also known as radiation protection, refers to the methods and measures designed to safeguard humans, the environment, and equipment from the harmful effects of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation. This field encompasses a range of practices, technologies, and standards aimed at minimizing exposure to radiation sources, ensuring safety in medical, industrial, nuclear, and scientific settings.

Ionizing radiation, which includes X-rays, gamma rays, and particles such as alpha and beta particles, has enough energy to ionize atoms and molecules, potentially causing damage to living tissue and increasing the risk of cancer. Non-ionizing radiation, such as radiofrequency, ultraviolet, and visible light, generally has lower energy but can still pose health risks through thermal or biological effects.

Radiation protection strategies typically involve time, distance, and shielding. Limiting the time spent near radiation sources, maximizing the distance from those sources, and using appropriate shielding materials like lead or concrete significantly reduce exposure levels. Regulatory bodies, such as the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP), establish safety standards and dose limits to control occupational and public exposure.

In medical environments, radiological safety includes proper device calibration, personnel training, and protective gear, such as lead aprons and barriers. In nuclear industries, containment, monitoring, and waste management are critical for preventing environmental contamination.

Key principles of radiation protection are justification (ensuring the benefits outweigh the risks), optimization (keeping doses As Low As Reasonably Achievable, ALARA), and dose limitation. These principles guide policies and procedures to protect health and safety while enabling the beneficial use of radiation technologies.