No activity is absolutely safe, The risk associated
with collecting radioactive minerals can be greatly
reduced by taking the simple, sensible precautions
listed below:-
-
Invest in a Geiger counter, learn how to use it
properly, and use it regularly to check radiation
levels around your collection.
-
Visit the US Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) website to learn more about ionising
radiation, its effects on human tissue and the
currently perceived "safe" levels.
Note: as knowledge is accumulated, the
recommended safety levels may change.
-
Choose smaller specimens. These frequently have
finer crystals and smaller specimens will reduce
the total amount of radiation.
-
Place individual specimens in closed cases
whenever possible.
-
Keep your collection in a cabinet, preferably a
steel one.
-
Do not store radioactive specimens in frequently
occupied living rooms, especially any that may
contain food or drink.
-
If possible store the collection in a separate
building such as a shed or garage remote from the
house. A brick building affords better shielding
than a wooden one.
-
Make sure that the building is well ventilated.
-
Ensure that the collection is kept clean and
dust-free.
-
Limit the time spent examining your specimens.
The measured radiation levels from your
collection will determine the maximum number of
hours per year that you can safely be exposed to
the radiation. If you want to study your
specimens in detail, why not photograph them?
Most importantly of all,
-
Take great care not to inhale or ingest dust from
the specimen or its case. Internal organs cannot
be protected against the most damaging form of
radiation, alpha particles. Dead skin or a sheet
of paper will protect against external sources.
-
For the same reason, do not handle specimens when
you have cuts or broken skin.
-
Thoroughly wash your hands after handling
specimens
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