What Does
Radiation Suit Mean?
A radiation suit is a piece of personal protective equipment (PPE) that is specially designed to protect the wearer from radiation hazard. Usually, a radiation suit includes both PPE articles akin to clothing, as well as specialized equipment. Radiation suits are used by military and non-military personnel, who must work in an environment that contains or is contaminated with radioactive materials, whether accidentally or as a routine. Radiation is extremely harmful to humans, therefore, the users need sufficient knowledge and practice while putting on radiation suits in workplaces. Most of the garment parts of the radiation suits are not reusable, but some equipment can be reusable after decontamination procedures are followed.
Safeopedia Explains Radiation Suit
Radiation suits are made of nanotechnology, radiation resistant materials, fabric, rubber, lead, activated carbon and boron, etc.. The choice of materials and their combinations depend upon the type of radiation sources. Generally, these suits are effective against Alpha and Beta particles, and, to some extent, X ray and Gamma ray radiation. Lead is used to protect against rays, while boron is used to absorb particles. Nano metal polymeric compounds with large atomic numbered metal atoms and chemical resistant polymers are used for X rays and Gamma rays. This resultant compound retains the properties of metal and chemical barriers to provide radiation protection. A method to determine the effectiveness of such suits against high radiation, especially Gamma ray radiation, is still not established. Suits are also not all-weather capable.
Radiation suits include the following items:
- Positive pressure full-face piece with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
- Hooded radiation-resistant suit
- Coveralls
- Radiation resistant inner and outer gloves
- Steel toed shanked radiation resistant boots and boot covers
- Hard hat and face shield
- Optional – personal dose rate dosimeter and total dose dosimeter