How to Handle Radioactive Material

Radioactive material is typically the result of nuclear fission or other nuclear-based processes. In a public emergency, or in medical emergencies involving the transportation of radiation medical treatments, individuals may have the potential to encounter radioactive material and may be contaminated via skin absorption, inhalation or ingestion. Properly handle radioactive material to avoid radioactive contamination and preserve your personal health.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand the safety labels applied to packages containing radioactive material. Knowing the level of radiation contained can help you properly judge the safety risks in handling this material. A white Level 1 label means there is such a low level of radiation that you face very little to no health risks. A yellow Level 2 level means there may be some radiation outside the containment package, while a yellow Level 3 label, or a label labeled "FISSILE," contain the highest amount of radiation threat.

• 2

  Learn how radiation is affected by time and spatial distances. The level of radiation you encounter when handling a package containing radioactive material depends largely on the length of time you maintain proximity to the package, as well as how close you are to it. Levels of radiation increase the closer you get to the material, and the level of absorption rises the longer you maintain this distance.

• 3

  Observe healthy time limitations when near radioactive material. When handling packages or shipments of radioactive material, minimize the amount of contact time you experience with the package. Do not linger near the package, and move it rapidly when transporting it to another area. Also, avoid storing or placing the package in common social or meeting areas or near your workplace.

• 4

  Maximize the distance between your body and the package of radioactive material. If handling Level 2 or higher packages, use radioactive-shielding gloves. While transporting any type of radioactive material, avoid carrying it with your hands and use a cart instead.

• 5

  Avoid storing packages of radioactive material together, as this increases the total net amount of radiation that you may come in contact with. Never group more than fifty packages of radioactive material together, and keep groups of radioactive material six meters from other groups of radioactive material.

• 6

  Implement precautionary safety measures in case a box or package containing radioactive material is broken or opened accidentally. Never touch an opened package and alert others to stay away. Contact your local emergency officials and notify them of a radioactive material threat. Submit yourself to an inspection by a radiation protection specialist as soon as possible to minimize the threat of contamination.