United States Department of Transportation
i
Ionizing Radiation and Radiation Safety in Aerospace Environments
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2021-03-01
[PDF-2.58 MB]
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Edition:Final
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Abstract:This report can be used as a source book for the instruction of crew members on ionizing radiation exposure of air and space travelers and updates information and guidance materials in DOT/FAA/AM-11/9. The report discusses the nature and hazards of ionizing radiation, subatomic particles of matter and packets of electromagnetic energy (photons) with sufficient energy to eject orbital electrons from atoms. Sources of ionizing radiation most likely to be encountered during air travel include galactic and solar cosmic radiations, radioactive cargo, radioactive substances released into the atmosphere, lightning, and terrestrial gamma-ray flashes. In space travel, radiation trapped in the Earth’s magnetic field is also possible. There are two classes of health effects that may result from ionizing radiation exposure. A health effect following exposure to ionizing radiation for which the severity is related to the radiation dose is called a deterministic effect. Deterministic effects may occur soon after radiation exposure. If instead, the probability (risk) but not the severity of a health effect after exposure to ionizing radiation is related to dose, it is called a stochastic effect. Stochastic effects seldom occur until years after the radiation exposure. Scientific committees recommend dose limits based on current knowledge of health effects resulting from exposure. Recommendations are considered by regulatory authorities and may be enacted into laws and regulations. This report describes sources of ionizing radiation and the resultant radiation doses to aircrew, passengers, and astronauts along with the possible resulting health effects and risks. This report also discusses the regulations and recommendations intended to minimize radiation risks.
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