What Is Ionizing Radiation and How to Protect Yourself from Exposure

What is ionizing radiation and why is it dangerous? When you think about the term “ionizing radiation” you immediately start thinking about events like the nuclear meltdowns in Chernobyl and Fukushima, and for good reason. Ionizing radiation damages organic tissues, so high levels of exposure to this type of energy can lead to severe health complications.

In this article, we will discuss the definition of ionizing radiation and how it differs from non-ionizing radiation. We’ll also explain why ionizing radiation is harmful, go over the most common sources of this type of energy, and give you tips to protect yourself in case you’re frequently exposed to it.

 

What is Ionizing Radiation?

First, let’s go over the ionizing radiation definition.

Ionizing radiation is a type of energy that’s released by elements with an unstable nucleus. Since they’re unstable, the atoms within these elements disintegrate spontaneously, releasing ionizing radiation in the form of either wavelengths (gamma rays and X-rays) or as particles (alpha, beta, and neutrons).

Ionizing radiation is so powerful that it can knock electrons out of atoms and molecules, a process which is called ionization. The problem is that ionization energy can lead to damage in living tissue, cause cell mutations, and produce other long-term health effects.

Now, it’s important to note that everyone is exposed to natural sources of ionizing radiation, such as water, vegetation, and soil. However, there are also man-made sources that can result in severe exposure and even lead to radiation poisoning.

 

The Difference Between Non-Ionizing and Ionizing Radiation

Is ionizing radiation harmful? The short answer is yes, but it’s also important to know why this type of energy is much more harmful than non-ionizing radiation.

The main difference between the two is that non-ionizing radiation does not have enough energy to dislodge electrons. Non-ionizing energy doesn’t harm DNA directly or break down organic tissue, so it doesn’t cause the same severe health complications as its ionizing counterpart.

While it’s still possible to experience radiation burns from non-ionizing energy, the long-term effects are not as severe as exposure to ionizing radiation.

 

Is Ionizing Radiation Exposure Harmful?

As we’ve covered in the previous section, ionizing radiation is harmful because it ejects electrons from stable molecules. But, what does this mean for your health exactly?

When there is molecular damage to DNA and other cells, your body may not always be able to repair it properly. This can lead to mutations, additional damage, and even cell death. Not only this, but long-term exposure can lead to an accumulation of symptoms and a higher chance of cancer.

 

Most Common Radiation Sources

As we mentioned before, there are several natural sources of ionizing radiation, but this energy is present in such low doses that it doesn’t cause harm. That said, there are other ionizing radiation examples that come from man-made sources.

Let’s take a closer look.

 

Natural Background Radiation

Everybody experiences ionizing radiation exposure from natural background sources. Cosmic rays that come from outer space constantly enter our atmosphere and pass through our bodies, especially when we’re at elevated altitudes or flying in an airplane.

Not only this, but radon gas, which is a natural byproduct of uranium in the soil beneath your feet, is the biggest source of indoor radiation in the world. All-in-all, natural background radiation is not avoidable, but it also poses a very low risk for most individuals.

 

Medical Radiation Sources

Medical radiation refers to all ionizing energy that comes from treatments and diagnostic procedures that utilize gamma rays and other forms of radiation. There’s a long list of treatments and procedures that can cause ionizing radiation exposure, but the most common ones include X-rays, CT scans, and fluoroscopies.

It’s important to note that all medical procedures that utilize radiation are regarded as safe, and these are carefully managed and delivered by highly-trained professionals. That said, it’s important to minimize diagnostic imaging and other procedures wherever possible in order to prevent radiation accumulation.

 

Occupational and Industrial Sources

Professionals who work in nuclear plants and other facilities that utilize radiation equipment are at higher risk of exposure. The list of specialists who work closely with radiation includes radiologists, technologists, nuclear medicine staff, and other professionals who have to follow strict safety protocols that help prevent long-term issues like cumulative damage.

 

How to Protect from Ionizing Radiation

Protecting against radiation is essential for individuals who work closely with ionizing energy. For starters, it’s important to have the right security protocols, which include dose control, personnel protection, and health monitoring.

Here are a few steps you can take to protect radiation professionals in your facility.

• Limit Exposure Duration: Minimizing time near radiation sources directly reduces exposure, lowering immediate risks and long-term health complications for workers.

• Maximize Distance and Separation: Radiation weakens with distance, so keeping staff farther away from active sources is one of the easiest protection methods.

• Use Protective Barriers and Other Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Lead aprons, thyroid shields, and barriers block radiation effectively, protecting professionals during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures.

• Abide by Monitoring and Dosimetry Standards: Personal dosimeters track cumulative doses, ensuring workers stay within safety limits and maintain long-term health.

• Follow Regulatory Guidelines and Provide Training: Following safety standards and offering regular training fosters a strong safety culture and prevents overexposure.

 

Get the Best Shielding Technology for Your Facility

Ionizing radiation is a type of harmful energy that affects organic tissue and can potentially cause long-term health issues. It’s important to note that ionizing radiation plays a critical role in medical facilities, industrial settings, and other areas, but it’s important to protect radiation professionals by equipping them with the right PPE.

Getting the best type of aprons, lead barriers, thyroid shields, and other protective accessories can help prevent long-term health issues and protect your team. At Barrier Technologies, we’ve been designing and manufacturing lead as well as non-leaded aprons that protect against radiation exposure.

Contact us today if you need help selecting the right radiation apparel for your facility and our team of experts will be glad to help.