Shielding - hdbk1130cn20059

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Module 1: Radiological Fundamentals

Instructor's Notes

The range in air of beta particles depends on the

energy of the beta particle. In the case of tritium

(H-3), the range is only an inch; in the case of

phosphorous-32 (P-32) or strontium-90 (Sr-90),

the range is 20 feet in air.

Shielding

Beta particles are typically shielded by plastic, glass,

or safety glasses.

If ingested or inhaled, a beta emitter can be an

internal hazard when the source of the beta

radiation is in close contact with body tissue and

can deposit energy in a small volume of living

body tissue.

Externally, beta particles are potentially hazardous

to the skin and eyes.

Provide facility-specific information on the

additional risks or concerns from high-energy beta

sources (e.g., P-32, Y-90), as appropriate.

Sources

(Insert facility-specific information.)

Table 1-3

Beta Particles

Physical

Small mass.

Characteristic

-1 charge or + 1 charge.

Short distance (one inch to 20 feet).

Range

Plastic.

Shielding

Glass.

Safety glasses.

Internal hazard (this is due to short range).

Biological

Externally, may be hazardous to skin and eyes.

Hazard

Insert facility-specific information.

Sources