No one’s safety is guaranteed when it comes to effects of ionized radiation. Nevertheless, it is possible to know that radiation level has exceeded safety norms, but only if there is an active dosimeter giving warning signs or sounding its characteristic clicking. As far as practice goes, there is such specialized equipment installed near many man-made radiation sources, such as: factories, nuclear power plants, radioactive waste disposal sites and former nuclear test sites.
Of course, when it comes to a local marketplace or store, it is anyone’s guess. This, however, does not mean that there are no sources of radiation in such places. There are numerous documented cases where varies foods, fruits, vegetables and even medicine were sources of poisonous, ionized radiation. How radionuclides get into common consumer goods – is another story. Be it as it may, it is important to know what to do in case radiation sources are detected.
Since the probability of being exposed to radiation and receiving a high dosage is especially high at industrial facilities of a certain category, these places issue dosimeters to all personnel. On-site workers are hence aware of a safety plan in case of radiation alarm. Things are very different when radiation sources are found at home or in a street. Most of us have no real idea of what to do in such situations.
If radioactive object is detected, it is important to know how to behave so that the radiation does not harm you or others. Note: even if you do have a dosimeter on hand, it still does not allow you to attempt removing the detected radiation source on your own. The best thing you can do in such a situation is to move away to a safe distance from this object and to warn others. The disposal of the said object must absolutely be entrusted to the proper authorities, ie the police.
As it happens, the source of radiation can be present and detected even at a grocery store. In such circumstances, it is prohibited to either just stay silent or try to solve the problem by yourself. It is far more prudent to politely warn the store manager and to contact the aforementioned authorities. If you managed to protect yourself from danger and did not purchase anything dangerous, this does not mean that someone else will not end up buying toxic, irradiated produce!
Protect yourself and your family from the poisonous effect of the invisible enemy – ionized radiation! Get a dosimeter for a peace of mind