Radiation Protection Research Paper

X-rays were discovered in 1895 by Wilhelm Conrad Roentgen, a Professor at Wuerzburg University in Germany. While working with a cathode-ray tube in his laboratory, Roentgen observed a fluorescent glow of crystals on a table near his tube. In the past, people were unaware of how harmful x-rays are, because they are invisible. Scientists and researchers working in the radiography field were not aware of the effect on the body after continuous exposure. When radiography was in its infancy, it was common practice for the dentist or dental assistant to help the patient hold the film in place while taking the radiograph, exposing them to unnecessary radiation, repetition of this endangered their health and occasionally led to permanent injury or death. Fortunately, although the hazards of prolonged exposure to radiation are not completely understood, scientists have learned how to reduce them drastically by proper use of fast film and digital sensors, safer x-ray machines, and strict adherence to safety protocol. …show more content…
No exposure is acceptable unless its usefulness is demonstrated. Any radiological modality or procedure has to be justified. The second principle of radiation protection is optimization. When the exposure to radiation is justified, an effort must be engaged in order to keep the radiation dose delivered as low as reasonably achievable. The third principle of radiation protection is dose limitation in order to avoid excessive exposure of an individual. The ICRP recommends a set of dose limits for the general public and for people exposed in the course of their