Radiation Safety in Workplaces and Healthcare

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Introduction

The selected article was co-authored by three bodies (the Committee On The Biological Effects Of Ionizing Radiations, the Board On Radiation Effects Research, the Commission On Life Science, and the National Research Council). The article indicates that radiation is a form of energy found around us existing in the environment. It is usually emitted by the sun, rocks, and even everyday objects such as cell phones and microwaves. Radiation can also be created artificially through medical procedures, nuclear power plants, and nuclear weapons. Exposure to this radiation can harm the human body; hence it is advisable to understand these effects to protect society from its adverse effects. This essay will examine the fundamental premises of the article and topics discussed regarding the social and health impacts of low-level ionizing radiation exposure.

Impact of Radiation on Society

The impact of radiation exposure on society is essential as it can affect not only the health of personalities but also the environment, the economy, and public perception. Radiation exposure was significantly impacted by nuclear mishaps like the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster in 2011 and the Chornobyl disaster in 1986 (Committee on The Biological Effects of Ionizing Radiations et al., 1990). They caused environmental damage and forced the evacuation of nearby populations. The economic impact of radiation can occur due to the high cost of decontamination, compensation for victims, and lost productivity. Radiation exposure can also affect public perception leading to fear and mistrust of nuclear power and medical imaging procedures. In addition, cultural and social stigmas may arise associated with cancer and other health problems caused by radiation exposure.

Health Effects of Radiation Exposure

Radiation exposure can occur in various ways, such as natural sources such as cosmic rays and radioactive minerals and artificial sources such as medical imaging and nuclear accidents. X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and nuclear medicine are examples of medical operations. These procedures use ionization radiation which can penetrate the body's tissues and can cause damage to cells and DNA. The health effects of radiation acquaintance can differ depending on the dose, duration, and type of radioactivity. Cancer, genetic mutations, and radiation sickness constitute to primary health effects of radiation acquaintance (Committee On The Biological Effects Of Ionizing Radiations et al., 1990). Radiation can damage deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and cause mutations that lead to the growth of cancerous cells. Genetic mutations, on the other hand, can also cause hereditary diseases and congenital disabilities in future generations. Individuals who receive a high radiation dose for a short period will likely develop radiation sickness. Symptoms of radiation may include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and severe damage to internal organs, which may cause death.

Occupational Exposure to Radiation

Occupational radiation exposure can occur in industries such as nuclear power plants, medical facilities, and industrial radiography. Employees in these industries can be...