A radiation accident is a violation of the rules for the safe operation of a nuclear power plant, equipment or device in which radioactive products or ionizing radiation have escaped beyond their safe operation, leading to exposure of the population and pollution of the environment.
The main impact factors of such accidents are radiation exposure and radioactive contamination. Such accidents can be accompanied by explosions and fires. Radiation exposure to humans is a violation of the vital functions of various organs (mainly hematopoietic organs, nervous system, gastrointestinal tract) and the development of radiation sickness under the influence of ionizing radiation). Radioactive contamination is caused by alpha-, beta- and gamma-ionizing radiation and is caused by the release of unreacted elements and products of nuclear fission (radioactive slag, dust, fragments of nuclear product), as well as the formation of various materials (eg radioactive slag). due to their irradiation.
How to act on a radiation accident notification:
When outdoors, immediately protect your respiratory system with a scarf. When you get home, put your outer clothes and shoes in a plastic bag, take a shower. Close windows and doors. Turn on the TV and radio for more information about the accident.
Seal ventilation openings, cracks in windows (doors) and do not approach them unnecessarily.
Stock up on water in airtight containers. Wrap open products in plastic wrap and place in refrigerator (cupboard). To protect the respiratory system, use a respirator, cotton gauze bandage or handy cloth products soaked in water to enhance their filtering properties. When receiving instructions through the media, carry out iodine prophylaxis, taking one tablet (0.125 g) of potassium iodide for 7 days, and for children under 2 years – part of the tablet (0.04 g). In the absence of potassium iodide, use iodine solution: three to five drops of 5% iodine solution per glass of water, children under 2 years – one – two drops.
How to act on radioactive areas:
To prevent or reduce the effects of radioactive substances on the body, proceed as follows:
● leave the room only when necessary, using a respirator, raincoat, rubber boots and gloves;
● in the open do not undress, do not sit on the ground and do not smoke, exclude swimming in open water and picking berries, mushrooms;
● periodically moisten the area around the house, and in the room daily conduct a thorough wet cleaning with detergents;
● before entering the room, wash your shoes, shake and clean your outer clothes with a damp brush;
● use water only from proven sources;
● Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and rinse your mouth with 0.5% baking soda solution. Adherence to these recommendations will help to avoid radiation sickness and negative impact on the body due to exposure to ionizing radiation.