Sources of Radiation

There are many sources of exposure to ionizing radiation and conditions in which employees can be exposed. Exposure can result from natural sources, such as radioactive materials that exist in the soil, and from cosmic sources (the sun). Workers can also be exposed to radiation from sources that are a result of human activity. For instance, exposure to ionizing radiation can result from equipment that emits radiation, such as X-ray machines.

Pregnant women and children are especially sensitive to radiation exposure. The cells in children and fetuses divide rapidly, which provides more opportunity for radiation to disrupt the process and cause cell damage.

To learn more about Ionizing Radiation visit our Ionizing Radiation Safety Online Training web page.