4. Radiation protection

Radiation protection is not just a matter for the nuclear energy sector. Artificial radioelements are also widely used in industry, mainly for industrial x-rays, and above all in medicine, for diagnosis, treatment and surgical aids. Radiation protection principles and rules are the same in all sectors.

There are many natural and artificial sources of human radiation. It is essential to appreciate their effects and, where useful, to take action to reduce the doses received. Since radioactivity was first used, considerable experience has been gained on the effects of ionizing radiation. The effects of high doses are well known, and research is focused on improving care for irradiated patients. For lower doses, which have no visible short-term effects on health, the scientifically proven effects are statistical in nature: the natural risk of certain cancers is increased...