- Making Safety Simpler
BCCSA Search
Radiation Hazards
High-energy radiation that can remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, causing them to become charged ions. Includes X-rays and gamma rays, which can damage living tissue and increase cancer risk.
Lower-energy radiation that doesn't ionize atoms but can cause other biological effects. Includes ultraviolet (UV) light, visible light, infrared radiation, microwaves, and radio-frequency radiation.
Construction Industry Examples
- X-ray equipment for non-destructive testing of welds
- Density gauges using radioactive sources for soil compaction testing
- Naturally occurring radioactive materials in certain types of stone or soil
- UV radiation from sunlight or welding arcs
- Infrared radiation from hot surfaces
- Laser levels and distance measuring devices
- Microwave radiation from communication towers
Tips on Identifying
- Identify equipment existing in work area or equipment that will be used/installed for radiation hazards.
- Identify if any welding will occur.
- Identify if working outside exposed to sunlight will occur.
Control Method Examples:
More Effective
Substitution
Engineering Controls
Maximize distance from source(s) of radiation
Administrative Controls
Minimize time spent in areas with elevated radiation levels. Minimizing the exposure time reduces a worker's dose from the radiation source.
PPE
Use shielding for radiation sources (i.e., placing an appropriate shield between source(s) of radiation and workers).
Less Effective