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Protection from Radiation
Radiation is very easily detected. There is a range of simple, sensitive instruments capable of detecting minute amounts of radiation from natural and man-made sources. There are three ways in which people are protected from identified radiation sources:
- Limiting time: For people who are exposed to radiation in addition to natural background radiation through their work, the dose is reduced and the risk of illness essentially eliminated by limiting exposure time. Proper job planning is essential in achieving lowest exposure time. Always plan for the unexpected to eliminate delays in the exposure area.
- Distance: In the same way that heat from a fire is less the further away you are, so the intensity of radiation decreases with distance from its source. Distance is the easiest, fastest and most practical way to limit exposure.
- Shielding: Barriers of lead, concrete or water give good protection from penetrating radiation such as gamma rays. Highly radioactive materials are therefore often stored or handled under water, or by remote control in rooms constructed of thick concrete or lined with lead.