Comment Re:I might be missing something..... (Score 1) 481
I agree. I work as a Radiation Safety Officer at a small laboratory. We deal mostly with weak beta emitting isotopes(Tritium and Carbon-14.)Many people don't understand that there are radioactive isotopes for almost all elements, all putting out different levels of energy causing different forms of damage to different organs. I lost count long long ago how many times I have been asked by people whether I am going to glow or grow a third arm from working where I work. The stigma is strong in the general public against anything radioactive. Probably why we will never see another nuclear power plant open in the US for quite a while.
Ironically, all smokers receive strong 210P doses. The dose (in REM) an average smoker receives per year is higher than any person that works at my facility.
And to respond to the previous response regarding the uses of 210P, it is used as a check source for calibration or instruments. I use one to check the response of ion chambers used for air monitoring. These sealed sources aren't easy to break open either. I believe the 210P is diluted in some other metal, and then put into a sealed plastic mini hockey puck.
Ironically, all smokers receive strong 210P doses. The dose (in REM) an average smoker receives per year is higher than any person that works at my facility.
And to respond to the previous response regarding the uses of 210P, it is used as a check source for calibration or instruments. I use one to check the response of ion chambers used for air monitoring. These sealed sources aren't easy to break open either. I believe the 210P is diluted in some other metal, and then put into a sealed plastic mini hockey puck.
