Identify Radiation Types and Isotopes

• There are many kinds of electromagnetic radiation, but only ionizing radiation is of urgent concern in a radiation incident
  • Ionizing radiation: can remove electrons from atoms
  • Non-ionizing radiation: does not have enough energy to remove electrons from atoms
  • See illustration
• Identifying ionizing radiation types and isotopes are keys to managing a response
  • Identifying the radiation type will assist with radiation safety measures
  • Identifying the isotope will determine the energy (penetrating ability) of the radiation and radiation safety measures
  • Identifying the amount of radiation will determine radiation safety measures for responders and the public
• Types of ionizing radiation of interest during a radiation incident
  • Alpha particles: definition, illustration
  • Beta particles: definition, illustration
  • Gamma rays and x-rays: definition, illustration
  • Neutrons: definition, illustration
• How will radiation types be identified?
  • Specialized teams (local, state, federal) with radiation detection equipment on the ground and/or via aerial surveillance will identify the type(s), amount, and location of radiation
• See REMM's list of isotopes to look for during a radiation incident