Module 101 - Radiation Protection Principles - DOE-HDBK-1109-97

DOE-HDBK-1109-97

Radiological Safety Training for Radiation-Producing (X-Ray) Devices

Student's Guide

MODULE 101 - RADIATION PROTECTION PRINCIPLES

OBJECTIVES

Module Objective.

Upon completion of this unit, the participants should understand basic radiation

protection principles essential to the safe operation of X-ray devices.

ii.

Objectives.

Following self-study and/or classroom review, the participants will be able to:

Define ionizing radiation.

Identify sources of natural and manmade background radiation.

Define the DOE dose limits and facility-specific administrative control levels.

Describe the ALARA principle.

List the three major methods by which external exposure is reduced.

ATOMS

The atom, the basic unit of matter, is made up of three primary particles: protons, neutrons,

and electrons. Protons and neutrons are found in the nucleus of the atom; electrons are found

orbiting the nucleus. Protons have a positive charge; neutrons are neutral; electrons have a

negative charge. The configuration of electron shells and the number of electrons in the shells

determine the chemical properties of atoms.