National Institute for Subatomic Physics

Radiation in brief

What is ionizing radiation?
Ionizing radiation can be visualized as tiny particles of electromagnetic radiation with such a high energy that the radiation is able to extract electrons from atoms. If this happens the atoms become ionize. There should be a distinction made between radioactive sources, such as Radium, Uranium and Strontium and equipment that emits ionizing radiation, for example, X-Ray machines and accelerators. Both radioactive sources and radiation emitting machines are used within the Nikhef organization.

What is the danger?
During the use of radioactive sources or of appliances, there is a risk of exposure to ionizing radiation (dose). If the dose is too high, this can lead directly to damage to the human body. This can present itself hours or even days after exposure. One symptom is e.g. reddening of the skin. It is also possible to be exposed to one or more doses that present no direct damage to the body but can indirectly affect the reproductive system of the tissue. This can cause an increase in the chance of later presenting with a cancer.

Use of radioactive substances and of appliances
If you want to use a radioactive source or an appliance you should contact the Nikhef’s radiation protectionist to assess if the application is licensed: Marcel Vervoort. You will then receive information and instruction about the use of radiation sources and/or appliances and will be kept up to date on the conditions under which work may be carried out.

Has Nikhef a license for the operation of radioactive sources and appliances?
Nikhef has an extensive license under the Kern Energy Wet (KEW), nuclear energy legislation. This covers all the current operations where ionizing radiation is concerned. If you require a new application then contact (as soon as possible) the radiation protectionist to assess if the operation is licensed. It takes at least 6 months to apply for an extension to the permit!

What if a new application is required?
During the development of experiments it is possible to want to have a new application for ionizing radiation. Nikhef’s radiation protectionist must be contacted directly. The expe rt together with the user then draws up a risk-assessment study (Risk Inventory & Evaluation). The study outlines what measures should be taken to reduce certain risks. The proposed measures can be introduced after the study has been produced.