Many types of ionizing radiation sources are naturally present in our environment and can be found in the soil, water, air and to a lesser extent, in the food chain. It can also be found in our built environment.
The amount of radiation normally found in our environment is called 'background radiation'. In general, background radiation levels do not pose a health risk to humans.
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Radiation sources can also be encountered in other settings and can be used in a variety of applications such as:
- Medical uses (medical imaging, in-vitro diagnostics and radiation therapy)
- Energy uses (nuclear energy for the production of electricity)
- Industrial uses (industrial radiography, nuclear gauging) Research uses (nuclear physics, technology, space and environmental science)
In order to ensure the safe and secure use of these materials, approved licensees are subject to very rigorous and stringent regulations set out by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).
If not controlled properly, radiological emergencies can result when an event causes radioactive material in gaseous, solid or liquid forms to be released at levels high enough to impact human health. These events can be accidental or intentional (i.e. radiological terrorism).
The degree to which radiation can cause harm is dependent on a number of factors, including:
- the type of radiation in question (i.e. x-ray, Gamma, Beta, Alpha, Neutrons)
- the frequency and duration of exposure and
- the type of exposure (whole body or specific parts of the body)
- the proximity to the source (i.e. the distance between the radiation source and the exposed individual)
At the BCCDC, the Public Health Emergency Management and Environmental Health service lines respond to these emergencies by working with law enforcement, health specialists, provincial and federal partners to:
- Identify the type and amount of radiation released
- Analyze its current and predicted effect on human health and the environment
- Make clear, evidence-based recommendations on how to mitigate health impacts
- Interpret data to help stakeholders and the public understand the facts relating to issues, risks and protective measures