RAD210 Radioactivity and Radiation Protection

Lectures: Properties of radioactive nuclides, half-life, radiation types, nuclear reactions, energy, radiological toxicity, interaction of radiation with material and biological effects, radiation protection, ALARA, laws and regulations, measurement methods. History of radiation protection: ICRP, ICRU, UNSCEAR and IAEA, and the role of the International Organisation for Radiation Protection. Norwegian laws and regulations for the use of radioactivity, storage and radioactive waste.

Laboratory exercises: Practical radiation protection in the laboratory, Radiation protection using radioactive tracers, ALARA and introduction to measurement methods for alpha, beta and gamma radiation for qualitative and quantitative analysis.

Knowledge: The students should understand the properties of radioactive nuclides, including half-life, radiation types and radiotoxicity, as well as have gained insight into the biological effects and effective radiation protection. The students should have insight into measurement methods for alpha-, beta- and gamma-radiation for qualitative and quantitative analysis. The students should understand that radioactivity is a phenomenon that humans have always been exposed to, that radioactivity can be used for good purposes (such as cancer therapy) and that measures can be taken to reduce the unwanted effects of radioactive radiation. Students should also understand that knowledge is important to reduce unnecessary worry and concerns related to radioactivity by the general population.

Skills: The students should be able to use radiation protection principles in working with radioactive tracers and understand radiological measurement methods in their own work. They must comply with necessary laws and regulations when working with open radioactive sources, as well as understand the Radiation Protection Act and its regulations for use in their own work. Real-life case studies and problem-solving exercises involving radiation protection scenarios will stimulate students to analyse and apply their theoretical knowledge in practical situations. Group projects will allow students to develop teamwork and presentation skills. Critical reviews will help students recognise sources of scientific consensus and controversy surrounding the effects of ionising radiation.

General competence: The course gives competence for independent use of open ionising radiation sources. The students should be able to choose the best possible radioactive nuclide for their studies based on energy, half-life and suitability. They should be able to choose the best possible measurement technique, as well as apply the right radiation protection principles in their own work. Using case studies and laboratory assignments, students should be able to prepare and present technical and scientific information, both orally and in writing.