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Facts About Radiation

Radiation is one form of energy that has existed on Earth and in the universe since the beginning of time. Radiation takes several forms, none of which can be seen, heard, tasted, smelled, or felt. Scientists know what it is, where it comes from, how to detect and measure it, and how it affects people.

There are many materials in our surroundings that are naturally radioactive and have been that way since the earth was formed. They are in the ground, in our food, in buildings and even in our own bodies. Radiation also comes from outer space. Most of the radiation we receive every day comes from these sources.

Many of us receive man-made radiation, mostly from medical sources such as X-rays or radioactive tracers. Doctors use these methods to help diagnose and treat injuries and illness. Like many useful and beneficial things, radiation in large doses can be harmful. That's why people who work with radiation, like doctors and dentists, take extra precautions such as wearing lead aprons.

Radiation exposure is measured in millirem. The federal government says the average yearly exposure we receive from natural and man-made sources is about 360 millirem. In large doses, radiation may cause observable health problems or may increase the chance of health problems later in life.

In the process of making electricity, nuclear power plants produce radioactive materials.The nuclear fuel inside the nuclear power plant is highly radioactive and that is why large amounts of concrete and steel are used in containing the radioactivity within the reactor. Radiation guidelines for nuclear power plants have been established by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. These guidelines are designed to protect both the public and workers from unnecessary radiation exposure during the operation of nuclear power plants.

It is impossible for a nuclear power plant to explode like a nuclear bomb. Although there could be a serious accident at a nuclear power plant which might release radioactive materials, these serious accidents are very unlikely.

If a serious accident happened, people living near the plant would be asked to reduce exposure either by sheltering-in-place or by evacuating the area until such time as the radioactive materials had dispersed.

To receive information on the nuclear plan, you may call 1-800-322-0242 or go to vermontyankee.com. In the event of an emergency, the daily lines would be used for public information and rumor control and for providing up-to-date reports on plant conditions.

Vermont Yankee - 1-800-322-0242