Description: Radiation protection refers to the measures and practices implemented to safeguard people, animals, and the environment from the adverse effects of ionizing radiation. This protection is essential in contexts where radiation may be a byproduct of industrial, medical, or research activities. Ionizing radiation, which includes X-rays, gamma radiation, and alpha and beta particles, can cause cellular damage and increase cancer risk, making its control crucial. Radiological protection strategies are based on fundamental principles such as limiting exposure, reducing dose, and implementing physical barriers. These measures aim not only to protect human health but also to preserve the integrity of the environment, as radiation can have harmful effects on ecosystems and living organisms. Radiological protection is a multidisciplinary field involving physics, biology, medicine, and engineering, and its relevance has grown with the advancement of nuclear and radiological technologies. In a world where nuclear energy and medical applications of radiation are increasingly common, radiological protection becomes a fundamental pillar for ensuring sustainable and safe development.
History: Radiological protection began to take shape in the early 20th century, following the discovery of radioactivity by Henri Becquerel in 1896 and the subsequent work of Marie Curie. As the harmful effects of radiation became recognized, the first regulations were established in the 1920s. In 1955, the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) was founded to develop guidelines and recommendations on radiological protection. Over the decades, radiological protection has evolved, especially following nuclear accidents such as Chernobyl in 1986 and Fukushima in 2011, which highlighted the need for stricter and more effective protocols.
Uses: Radiological protection is applied in various areas, including medicine, where it is used in imaging diagnostic procedures and radiation therapy treatments. It is also crucial in the nuclear industry, where radioactive materials are handled, and in scientific research involving radiation. Additionally, it is implemented in the management of radioactive waste and in the protection of workers exposed to radiation in various professions.
Examples: Examples of radiological protection include the use of lead shielding in X-ray rooms to protect staff and patients, as well as monitoring radiation exposure in workers at nuclear plants. Another example is the implementation of safety protocols in the handling of radioactive isotopes in research laboratories.
