Radiation Safety in the Use of Radiation Sources in Research and Education

Radiation sources used in research and education include particle accelerators, sealed radioactive sources, such as low activity check sources and high activity sealed radioactive sources in irradiators; unsealed radioactive sources that are used as tracers in field work and in laboratory work; naturally occurring radioactive material and X ray generators such as diffraction apparatus and fluorescence analysers. This Safety Guide provides recommendations on how to meet the relevant requirements of IAEA Safety Standards Series No. GSR Part 3 in the use of radiation sources in research and education. It provides guidance on the control of occupational exposure and of public exposure, for planned exposure situations and, where appropriate, emergency exposure situations and on the safety measures specific to this practice. The recommendations in this publication are aimed primarily at operating organizations such as educational and research establishments including schools, colleges, universities and technical institutes that are authorized to use radiation sources in academic programmes, as well as their employees, students, teachers and radiation protection officers. The guidance will also be of interest to individuals working for regulatory bodies and other relevant organizations involved in design, manufacture, supply and service of radiation sources and associated equipment for research and education.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is the world's center of cooperation in the nuclear field. It was set up as the world's "Atom's for Peace" organization in 1957 within the United Nations family. The Agency works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote safe, secure and peaceful nuclear technologies.