In industrial radiography, what is the principal hazard?

In industrial radiography, external radiation is the principal hazard due to the use of ionizing radiation to inspect materials and components for welding defects and structural integrity. Radiography techniques often utilize gamma rays or x-rays, which are types of radiation that can penetrate materials. Since these rays originate from a source outside the body, they pose a significant risk to individuals who may be in the vicinity of the radiation source.

The concern primarily involves exposure to radiation that can affect external body tissues and increase the risk of radiation-induced effects such as cancer over time. Industrial radiography typically involves strict safety regulations and protocols to mitigate external exposure, including the use of barriers, protective clothing, and time-distance shielding strategies to minimize risk.

While internal radiation, neutron radiation, and alpha radiation can pose hazards in specific contexts, they are not the primary concerns in the context of industrial radiography, where the focus is predominantly on managing external radiation exposure.