RADIATION
SAFETY TRAINING MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
We use
radioactivity in experimental and diagnostic
situations at the University of California, San
Francisco (UCSF) because there is no better way
to get the information we seek. Yet working with
radioactivity does pose some risk. A great deal
is known about the risks associated with
radiation as compared with other environmental
hazards in the work place and, unlike some
hazardous materials, radiation is relatively easy
to measure and protect ourselves against.
Exposure
to ionizing radiation is a real, although a
relatively minor, hazard. It will remain minor
for ourselves and our colleagues if we are
careful. Regulations and common sense dictate
that radionuclide users be familiar with the:
1.
Properties of ionizing radiation.
2.
Biological effects of ionizing radiation.
3.
Measurement of ionizing radiation.
4. Safe
procedures for storage, use and disposal of
radionuclides.
5. Survey
and monitoring procedures.
The first
goal of this training manual is to provide enough
information about the radionuclides we use, their
properties and their containment so that our
involvement with radionuclides can be as
risk-free as possible. The second goal is to
establish standards of behavior such that
visitors to this campus and those who live nearby
can be assured they are at minimal risk.
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