RADIATION QUALITY

Radiation quality refers to the potential biological impact of different types of radiation,
determined by factors such as energy, penetration ability, and the type of radiation (alpha,
beta, or gamma). In the environment, radiation quality is a crucial factor in assessing how
radiation interacts with and affects various ecosystems and human health.

Radiation could be particles or waves.

​ Particle Radiation- Consist of actual particles
​ ​ [Link] particles: Helium nuclie (2 protons and neutrons).
​ ​ 2. Beta particles: High-energy electrons or positrons.
​ Wave Radiation- electromagnetic waves
[Link] rays and X-rays: High-energy photons with no mass or charge.
2. Visible light, microwaves, and radio waves: Lower-energy forms of
electromagnetic radiation.
Ionization of Radiation- process where radiation interacts with atoms, knocking electrons
out of their orbit and creating charged particles called ions. This effect is a hallmark of
ionizing radiation.

Ionizing Radiation: Alpha particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays have
enough energy to ionize atoms and molecules by removing electrons.

Health Effects
1.​ Acute Radiation Syndrome (ARS). This condition, also known as "radiation sickness,
" can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hair loss, and even death.
2.​ Cutaneous Radiation Injury (CRI). This refers to damage to the skin from high doses
of radiation, causing redness, swelling, and potentially burns.

Non-Ionizing Radiation: Such as visible light, microwaves, and radio waves, lack
the energy needed to ionize atoms.

Health Effects
1. Radiofrequency (RF) Radiation. While generally considered safe at normal levels, some
studies suggest that prolonged exposure to high levels of RF radiation, such as those from
cell phones and Wi-Fi routers, may increase the risk of certain cancers, neurological
problems, and reproductive issues.
2. Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation. Excessive exposure to UV radiation from the sun can cause
skin cancer, cataracts, and premature aging of the skin.
3. Visible Light. While generally harmless, excessive exposure to visible light, especially at
night, can cause eye strain, headaches, and sleep disturbances
4. Infrared Radiation. High levels of infrared radiation, such as those from heat lamps or
industrial processes, can cause tissue heating, leading to burns or other injuries.

KEY EFFECTS OF IONIZATION

1.​ Biological Impact: Ionization can damage DNA and cellular structures, potentially
leading to mutations, cancer, or cell death. This is why ionizing radiation is carefully
controlled in medical and industrial applications.
 2.​ Chemical Reactions: Ionization can alter chemical bonds, leading to changes in
molecular structures. For example, it can create free radicals, which are highly
reactive and can cause further damage to biological tissues.
3.​ Energy Transfer: The energy from ionizing radiation is absorbed by the material it
interacts with, which can lead to heating or other physical changes.

Types of Radiation
​ Alpha Radiation - High energy but low penetration; harmful when inhaled or
ingested. Alpha radiation has applications in smoke detectors, medical treatments, and
scientific research, but it also poses health risks if not handled properly.
​ Beta Radiation - Penetrates further than alpha radiation but can be blocked by
materials like plastic or glass. Beta radiation has applications in medical imaging, cancer
treatment, and scientific research.
-​ Alpha and beta radiation were discovered by Ernest Rutherford
in 1899
​ Gamma Radiation - Highly penetrating and requires dense materials like lead for
shielding. Gamma radiation is used in medical imaging (e.g., PET scans), cancer treatment,
sterilization of medical equipment, and scientific research.
-​ Gamma rays were discovered in 1900 by Paul Villard and later
named by Ernest Rutherford
X-rays - Similar to gamma radiation but produced by different sources. X-rays can
pass through many materials, including human tissue, making them invaluable for
medical imaging. They are widely used in medicine (e.g., diagnosing fractures, dental
issues, and lung infections), security (e.g., airport scanners), and industry (e.g.,
inspecting materials for flaws).
​ - discovered by Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen on 1895

Sources of Radiation
Natural Sources - Cosmic rays, radon gas, and internal radiation.
Anthropogenic Sources - Nuclear power plants, medical imaging and treatments, nuclear
weapons testing, and nuclear accidents.
Radiation in Soil
​ Types of Radionuclides in Soil - Radon decay products (e.g., polonium-210),
uranium, and thorium series radionuclides (e.g., radium-226, radon-222), and fallout
materials like cesium-137 and iodine-131 from nuclear tests.
​ Sources of Radiation in Soil
​ ​ Natural Sources - Naturally occurring radioactive elements in the Earth's
crust.
​ ​ Anthropogenic Sources - Human-induced contamination, such as from
nuclear accidents (e.g., Chernobyl and Fukushima) or mining operations.
​ Measurement Technique
​ ​ Gamma Spectroscopy - Used to detect gamma radiation emitted by
radionuclides in soil.
​ ​ Scintillation Detectors - Detect light emitted when radiation interacts with a
scintillating material.
​ ​ Alpha/Beta Particles Counting - Measures levels of alpha and beta particles
emitted by soil samples.
Regulatory Standards:
​ Radiation concentration limits are established by organizations like the International
Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and local authorities such as the Philippine Nuclear Research
Institute (PNRI).
Impacts on Soil:
`​ Radiation can alter soil chemistry, harm microbial life, and degrade soil fertility,
making it unsuitable for agriculture.

Radiation in Water
​ Radionuclides in Water - Water may contain radionuclides like radium, cesium,
iodine, and uranium, often through contamination from natural sources or nuclear accidents.
Sources of Radiation in Water
Natural groundwater contamination from uranium deposits.
Nuclear accidents and discharges from nuclear plants.
Runoff from radioactive waste sites or industrial discharges.
Measurement Methods
Liquid Scintillation Counting Detects low levels of beta-emitting radionuclides in
water.
Gamma Spectroscopy used for detecting gamma-emitting radionuclides.
Alpha/Beta Particle Counting used to measure particulate radiation levels in water
samples.
Regulatory Standards:
​ Drinking water quality standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and
local agencies like the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) under the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

Impacts on Water:
​ Contaminated water poses significant health risks, including cancer, genetic
mutations, and organ damage.
​ Bioaccumulation of radionuclides in aquatic organisms can disrupt ecosystems and
enter the human food chain.
Radiation in Air
Airborne Radiation - Radon gas, a natural decay product of uranium, and fallout
from nuclear events are significant sources of airborne radiation.

Sources of Radiation in Air

​ Radon emanating from soil and rock.
​ Emissions from nuclear power plants and radioactive waste disposal facilities.
​ Nuclear fallout from accidents or weapons testing.
Measurement Techniques:
Alpha/Beta Particle Detectors Measures radioactive particles suspended in the air.
Radon Detectors Specifically used to measure radon gas in indoor environments.
Gamma Detectors Used to monitor gamma radiation levels in the air.
Health and Environmental Risk:
Long-term exposure to airborne radon is a leading cause of lung cancer.
Nuclear fallout can contaminate air, water, soil, and food, leading to widespread
ecological damage.
Safety Standards:
​ Regulatory guidelines for permissible radiation levels in air are set by the WHO and
national agencies like the DOH (Department of Health) in the Philippines.

Radiation Quality in the Philippines

​ Current Radiation Level -The Philippines generally experiences low levels of
background radiation, though certain areas, especially those near uranium deposits or
affected by nuclear accidents, may have elevated levels.
Radon Exposure - Radon exposure in homes and schools remains a concern,
particularly in areas with uranium-rich geological formations. Radon mitigation measures are
essential for reducing health risks.
Monitoring and Challenges - Radiation monitoring in the Philippines is limited in
some regions, with the PNRI and DENR focusing on improving systems for tracking soil,
water, and air quality.
-The lack of comprehensive data on radiation in public areas remains
a challenge in assessing environmental and health risks.

Health and Environmental Impacts of Radiation

Health Risk:
Chronic radiation exposure can lead to cancer, genetic mutations, and other health
problems.
Radon is particularly dangerous as it can accumulate in homes and increase the risk
of lung cancer, especially among nonsmokers.
Environmental Impacts:
​ Radiation can disrupt ecosystems, harming plant and animal life, and lead to the
contamination of food sources.
Areas exposed to significant radiation, such as Chernobyl, demonstrate the long-term
ecological consequences of nuclear accidents.
Mitigation and Remediation Measures
​ Soil Remediation: Techniques like phytoremediation (using plants to absorb
contaminants), soil washing, and excavation of contaminated soil help reduce radiation
levels in affected areas.
Water Treatment: Methods such as reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and filtration are
employed to remove radionuclides from water sources.
​ Air Purification: Radon mitigation includes sealing cracks in foundations, improving
ventilation, and using air filtration systems.
Regulatory Actions: After major nuclear accidents, governments and international
organizations undertake extensive cleanup and decontamination efforts to reduce radiation
exposure.

Radiation Safety & ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable)

​ 1. Time - Time refers to the amount of time you spend near a radiation source.
Minimize your time near a radiation source to only as long as it takes to
accomplish a task.
First responders can use alarm dosimeters to help them minimize the amount
of time they are in an area with elevated radiation levels.
2. Distance - Distance refers to how close you are to a radiation source.
​ Maximize your distance from a radioactive source as much as possible.
 If you increase your distance from a radiation source, you will decrease your
dose.
3. Shielding - Shielding refers to putting something in-between the person and the
source of radiation. The item shielding could be a wall, protective clothing, or other
equipment.
In a radiation emergency, officials may instruct you get inside and out as
many walls between you and the outside as possible. This is another way to use
shielding.
Protective clothing can shield first responders from alpha and beta particles
but will not protect them from gamma rays. Standing behind a wall or fire truck can
also serve as a shield.
National Bodies (Philippines)
Philippines Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI)
Main regulatory body under DOST.
Monitors radiation levels, issues licenses, and ensures safe nuclear tech use.
Enforces the Code of PNRI Regulations (CPR).
Environmental Management Bureau (EMB-DENR)
Oversees radiation protection in soil, water, and waste.
Regulates radioactive waste disposal under environmental laws.
Department of Health (DOH)
Regulates radiation in medical settings.
Ensures safety in X-ray, CT, and radiotherapy applications.
Enforces radiation protection programs in hospitals.
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC)
Regulates the practice and licensing of radiologic technologists.
Upholds professional and ethical standards through board exams.
Key Philippine Laws and Policies
Code of PNRI Regulation (CPR)
CPR Part 3 – Radiation protection standards & dose limits.
CPR Part 4 – Licensing of radiation facilities.
CPR Part 11 – Transport and disposal of radioactive materials.
RA No. 7431 – Radiologic Technology Act of 1992
Regulates and upgrades radiologic technology practice.
Requires licensure, training, and ethical practice.
DOH Administrative Order No. 2020-0035
Sets licensing rules for X-ray and CT machines.
Requires radiation protection officers, shielding plans, and facility compliance.
International Bodies
​ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)
Sets global safety standards for nuclear and radiation use.
Provides technical support to countries like the Philippines.
World Health Organization (WHO)
Develops health-based safety guidelines for radiation in air, food, and water.
Monitors the impacts of radiation on human health.
​ United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation
(UNSCEAR)
Collects data on radiation exposure worldwide.
Assesses the health and environmental effects of ionizing radiation.
 International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP)
Founded in 1928; provides science-based recommendations. Established 3
guiding principles:
Justification
Optimization (ALARA)
Dose Limitation

Radiation Safety Measures

1. Training. Conduct regular workshops on radiation safety protocols. Provide online

modules explaining radiation risks and emergency procedures.

2. Monitoring. Use personal dosimeters like TLD (Thermoluminescent Dosimeters) or

electronic dosimeters to measure individual exposure. Deploy survey meters such as
Geiger counters or ion chamber instruments for area monitoring.

3. Use of PPEs

Case Study 1: Long-Term Radiation Monitoring in Kashiwa City, Japan

​ Objective:
To monitor and manage radioactive contamination in Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, after
the 2011 Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster, with the goal of evaluating the long-term
effectiveness of decontamination measures and informing public safety decisions.
Methodology:
Monitoring Period: Spanning 12 years (2011–2023) post-Fukushima.
Fixed-point measurements were systematically taken at locations prone to radioactive
accumulation, particularly gutters, roadside ditches, and parks, where cesium particles
tend to collect due to runoff and sedimentation.
Instruments measured ambient dose rates (μSv/h), primarily focusing on cesium-134
and cesium-137, the most persistent radionuclides from the fallout.
Data was regularly recorded by citizens using handheld dosimeters, later verified and
aggregated with expert oversight.
Measurements were visualized using decay models and trendlines to assess changes
over time.

Findings:

In early years, hotspots exceeded 1 μSv/h, particularly in areas where rainwater

collected and sediments accumulated.
As the years progressed, dose rates steadily declined, aligning with the physical
decay of cesium isotopes and the success of targeted sediment removal and
cleaning efforts.
Areas where decontamination was repeated showed much steeper declines, while
locations left unmanaged exhibited persistent elevated levels.
Significance:

The study showcased a model for citizen science, where community volunteers
actively contributed to long-term environmental monitoring.

Results confirmed that targeted decontamination, even years after the disaster,
remained effective in reducing radiation risks.

It emphasized that radiation risks can linger in urban environments, especially in micro-
environments (e.g., drains, schools) unless monitored and maintained.

The study highlighted the importance of sustained radiation monitoring not just
immediately after disasters but across decades, especially when public health and
confidence are at stake.

Case Study 2: Environmental Radiation Assessment Near a Radioactive Waste Facility

in Ghana
Objective:
To evaluate environmental radiation exposure and health risks for people living in
proximity to the Centralized Radioactive Waste Management Facility operated by the
Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC). The study aimed to ensure that the facility’s
operations remained within safety thresholds and to quantify potential carcinogenic risks.

Methodology:
A two-year observational program conducted between 2020 and 2022.
Sampling locations included homes, workplaces, and public areas within a 5 km radius
of the radioactive waste facility.
Measurements were taken for both indoor and outdoor gamma dose rates, using
calibrated radiation survey meters.
The study applied b (e.g., BEIR VII) to estimate Lifetime Attributable Risk (LAR) of
cancer based on measured dose rates, using population-specific data for adults and
children.
Statistical tools were used to compare radiation values against international
guidelines (e.g., IAEA, UNSCEAR

Findings:
Most of the ambient dose rates were within internationally accepted safety limits
(<1 mSv/year), indicating generally low exposure levels.
However, certain areas showed higher indoor readings, attributed to building
materials and limited ventilation, which could trap radon or gamma-emitting particles.
Cancer risk analysis revealed elevated risk probabilities for gamma radiation exposure,
particularly for children, compared to global reference values—even though dose rates
were technically below threshold.
These findings raised concerns about chronic low-dose exposure, especially in
households closest to the facility.
Significance:
The study underscores the importance of routine radiation surveillance even in
facilities that comply with design and operation standards.
It demonstrates that safe dose rates don't always equate to zero risk, especially for
vulnerable populations.
The authors advocated for risk communication strategies, stronger building codes,
and possible relocation or buffer zones around radioactive sites.
It presents a valuable developing-country perspective on managing nuclear
infrastructure near residential areas, showing the need for both technological oversight
and community awareness.

Radiation Pollution
is the presence of harmful radioactive substances in the environment, leading to
unintended exposure to ionizing radiation.

Radiation is the emission and transfer of energy through space or matter, in the form of
waves or particles. It can be natural (like sunlight and cosmic rays) or artificial (like X-rays
and nuclear radiation).
International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) - is an independent,
international organization that provides guidance on radiation protection to safeguard human
health and the environment.
● ICRP Publication 147 - focuses on the use of dose quantities in radiological protection. It
provides guidance on absorbed dose, equivalent dose, and effective dose, which are
essential for managing radiation exposure risks, particularly for occupational, public, and
medical applications, approved in May, 2019.
Absorbed dose: The amount of radiation energy deposited in a material or tissue,
measured in gray (Gy).
Equivalent dose: The absorbed dose adjusted for the type of radiation's biological
effect, measured in sievert (Sv).
 Effective dose: The equivalent dose further weighted by the sensitivity of different
organs, representing overall radiation risk, also measured in sievert (Sv).
● ICRP Publication 103 - contains the 2007 Recommendations of the International
Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). It updates previous guidelines on radiation
protection, refining concepts like justification, optimization, and dose limits for different
exposure situations. The publication introduces a framework for managing planned,
emergency, and existing radiation exposures, ensuring safety in occupational, medical, and
environmental contexts. ​
​