What are the sources of radiation?

At LLU/LLUMC, exposure to radiation can come from two different sources:

1. radiation-producing machines; or
2. radioactive materials.

MACHINES that can produce radiation include x-ray machines and accelerators. These machines are often used for diagnosing and treating patients in the hospital. A nice feature of most machines is that they produce NO RADIATION when not in use.

RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS are atoms that spontaneously emit radiation (alphas, betas, and/or gammas) constantly. Uses of these materials include tracer studies in laboratories and the diagnosis and/or treatment of patients. Some of the hazards associated with radioactive materials are related to the fact that the radiation is produced continuously. Shielding is necessary even during storage and if there is a spill, contamination can cause radiation exposure.

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