Ionizing Radiation (Radiation, Ionizing)
Radiation can be either non-ionizing or ionizing. Non-ionizing radiation examples include radio waves, microwaves, heat, visible light and ultraviolet radiation.
Radiation can also be ionizing, radiation that emits charged particles produced when electrons are removed from atoms. Ionizing radiation includes x-rays and gamma rays. It is this type of radiation that can change cells in the body by breaking the chemical bonds holding molecules together, including DNA molecules.
There are several regulations in place to protect workers from this ionizing radiation, with some protections specific to particular industries.
Rules
Rules for Specific Activities or Workplaces
- Hazardous Chemicals in Labs (Chapter 296-828, WAC)
- Hazardous Waste Operations (Chapter 296-843, WAC)
- Ionizing radiation in Construction (WAC 296-155-150)
- Ionizing Radiation in General Industry (WAC 296-62-09004)
- Shipbuilding, Ship Repairing and Shipbreaking (Chapter 296-304, WAC)
Videos
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Other Resources
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"Links" to other information sources are provided as a courtesy, but we cannot vouch for or take responsibility for information contained beyond files administered by the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries. Links from this page do not represent or imply the endorsement of commercial products by the State of Washington, Labor and Industries, or by departmental staff. For more information, read L&I's Intended Usage policy.
Dose Assessment of Shipping Containers affected by Japan Nuclear disaster (NIOSH)- Hinnefeld/Daniels Calculations of Radiation Exposure from Shipping Cargo Containers (NIOSH)
- Ionizing Radiation - OSHA
- Radiation Dispersal From Japan - Worker Information (Center for Disease Control)
- Radiation Dispersal from Japan and the Effect on U.S. Workers (OSHA)
- Radiation Fact Sheets (DOH)
- Radioactive Air Emissions (DOH)
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- Follow guidance in Steps To a Safe Workplace to create your safety program from scratch.
- For general information, call 1-800-423-7233.
