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The University is authorized to use radioactive material by the State of Ohio, which became an "Agreement State" on August 31, 1999. Radioactive material is extensively used in the several hundred biomedical research laboratories on campus. Safe use in compliance with the complex controls and regulations governing the use of radioactivity is the primary goal of the Radiation Safety Program. However, we affirm this goal must be realized in a research friendly environment, a philosophy captured by the phrase "low impact compliance". ALARA Although radiation is hazardous, it's benefits require use to foster biomedical research like electricity and many chemicals used in research laboratories. Proper use, while keeping any individual's radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable, is the balanced approach whereby the risks are proportionate to the return. LNT Science has not provided a definitive answer regarding the risks associated with exposure to the low levels of radiation biomedical researchers may encounter. International committees, viz., the ICRP, BEIR and UNSCEAR, recommend applying the conservative assumption that any radiation exposure may be harmful and to quantify the risk based on the acute, high dose exposure-affect data available. This "Linear No Threshold" model establishes limits for annual radiation exposure. These limits are far above the radiation exposures encountered by biomedical research personnel in our laboratory environment. We assure this by vigilant radiation level monitoring and contamination surveys, and verify it by a rigorous dosimetry program.
Any place where radioactive material is used or stored must be labeled with the international radiation warning symbol and a sign designating the nature of the radiation hazard. For most all situations within the University, the sign reads "Caution, Radioactive Materials". The purpose of these postings is to make you aware of an invisible hazard. All personnel who work with or may come into contact with radioactive material are required to be appropriately trained. If you are not trained and authorized to be in such a "restricted" area, you are to leave it. Information Any questions pertaining to radiation safety should be addressed to the Radiation Safety Office.
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"Caution, Radioactive Materials"