Radiation Safety
Radiation Safety in the School of Engineering
Electromagnetic radiation spans an enormous range of wavelengths and frequencies and is generally divided into seven regions, in order of decreasing wavelength and increasing energy and frequency. The common designations are: radio waves, microwaves, infrared (IR), visible light, ultraviolet (UV), X-rays and gamma rays.
From a health and safety perspective, radiation is divided into two broad areas, namely non-ionising radiation (NIR) and ionising radiation. Ionising radiation carries more energy than non-ionising radiation.
University Radiation GuidanceLink opens in a new window
Non-ionising Radiation (NIR)
the term used to describe the part of the electromagnetic spectrum covering two main regions, namely optical radiation and electromagnetic fields (EMFs).
What NIR source are you working with?
AOR (lasers and broadband sources)Link opens in a new window
Ionising Radiation
occurs as either electromagnetic rays (such as X-rays and gamma rays) or particles (such as alpha and beta particles). It occurs naturally (e.g. radon gas) but can also be produced artificially. Ionising radiation has many uses in industry: energy production, manufacturing, medicine and research, however, it is important that the risks of ionising radiation are managed sensibly to protect those working with it and the public.
Please contact the Radiation Protection Officer (RPO) for further guidance. Contact: Lorraine Blackwell