Take 5 Briefing - Radiation

The November edition of Take 5 is here!

Every day, everyone, is exposed to some form of radiation with the majority of it being from natural sources such as radon gas; however, there will be occasions when radiation sources may be used for legitimate reasons, such as performing an x-ray or in illegal ways such as by terrorist groups.

While the risk of a terrorist attack using a radioactive source is very low, ambulance crews could come across radiation sources in many different ways, such as people who have received certain types of medical procedures which involve radioactive dyes or at the scene of an accident where a radioactive source is being transported between two locations has been involved.

Ensuring staff know how to quickly and effectively protect themselves at these types of incidents is very important and it is hoped this short briefing will help crews refresh their knowledge around the different types of radioactive material and how they can ensure they remain safe.

Published 2nd November 2022