Radiation at work explained
Do you use, or are you exposed to radiation as part of your work? Our new suite of occupational exposure factsheets have been designed to keep you informed about the type of radiation you may be exposed to, any possible health effects and how to adequately protect yourself.
X-rays
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation similar to radio waves, microwaves, visible light and gamma rays.
Alpha particles
Alpha particles are relatively slow and heavy compared with other forms of nuclear radiation.
Units of ionising radiation measurement
There are many quantities in radiation that use unique units. Australia uses the International system (SI) of units.
Gamma radiation
Gamma rays are electromagnetic energy emitted by the nucleus of some radionuclides following radioactive decay.
Other types of radioactive decay
Alpha, beta and gamma radiation are the most common types of radioactive decay but there are other ways that unstable atoms can become stable.
Atomic structure
Atoms are the extremely small particles that are the basic building blocks of ordinary matter.
Health effects of ionising radiation
What are the health effects of ionising radiation exposure and how does it affect human tissue?
