The importance of making use of special radiation PPE to protect yourself from absorbing large doses of radiation is already known. But, of course, there are times when it is not just avoidable, but also necessary to get exposed to radiation. Numerous types of radiation surround us, but the most harmful type is gamma radiation. Gamma radiation is the most penetrating natural radiation and is also the most common when nuclear accidents happen.
Protecting those at the frontline, the first responders to situations involving gamma radiation is a delicate process. For example, the active personnel in some sections of the military and astronauts in space programs are at greater risk of developing health complications as a result of being exposed to gamma radiation. These complications could be mild, like blurred vision and headaches, or even severe, like developing cancer or suffering genetic mutations. The need to protect them is critical. The challenge is usually finding the best combination in protective clothing that offers mobility, ease, and maximum protection.
Most equipment designed to offer full and total protection against radiation would weigh so much that the wearer may be immobilized, or at best find it so much difficult to move a few steps. There is also the issue of little or no ventilation since the body would, most likely, be covered. Thankfully, the best protective equipment today is designed to be lightweight, durable, and offer strategic protection.
Standard radiation PPE is made from durable, lightweight fabric, and pads of absorbent material to trap the gamma rays. The suits are also equipped with radiation monitors which give continuous radiation count so that the wearer can always be aware. Most also come with a proximity sensor that shows how close the wearer is to the radiation source. The suits are designed like a normal jacket and protect the most vulnerable parts of the body such as the chest, waists groin, and by extension, the bone marrows.
Other ways of protecting yourself against radiation include
1. Buy radiation shields:
Radiation shields are materials that can trap, conduct, and absorb radiation. Radiation shields are quite efficient in the reduction of absorbed radiation, and when combined with radiation PPE, the result is quite amazing. The type of radiation shield you need would depend on the type of radiation around you.
2. Reduce the sources of radiation:
The lesser the number of devices that emit radiation around you, the better it is. The number of smart devices we have around us today is on the increase, and the majority of them are sources of radiation. Yes, for comfort and speed, you may have to use many wireless devices but reducing the number of them you own is advisable. Another trick is to use them at different times so that at any given time, you are using the least number of devices possible.
3. Keep your distance:
The farther you are from a radioactive item, the better it is. If you have to be close to radiation, it is advisable to keep some distance to reduce exposure. The effectiveness of this strategy is limited, and can only help a lot in the use of mobile devices or.
4. Reduce time of exposure:
This is quite necessary, especially for people who work with industries where they are regularly exposed to radiation. Reducing the time spent being exposed to radiation will lower the dosage of radiation you absorb.
Radiation PPEs are very effective in protecting the body from absorbing large doses of radiation. They are available in different styles and can be used in a wide range of environments or jobs. Make sure you have one on before exposing yourself to radiation, especially when you are within close range.