What is Radioactive Contamination?

Radioactive contamination is the uncontrolled presence of radioactive substances on surfaces, in liquids, in the air, or inside living organisms where they are not supposed to be.

 

Here’s a clear breakdown:

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What it is

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• Radioactive contamination occurs when radioactive particles (atoms that emit radiation) settle on or mix with materials, people, or the environment.

• These particles continue to give off radiation until they decay or are removed.

 

Key points

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• External contamination: Radioactive material is on the skin, clothing, or surfaces.

• Internal contamination: Radioactive material has entered the body through inhalation, ingestion, or absorption.

• Not the same as radiation.

• Radiation is the energy emitted by radioactive atoms.

• Contamination is the presence of the radioactive material itself.

 

Examples

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• Dust or water containing radioactive isotopes released from a nuclear facility accident.

• Radioactive materials leaking during transport or from medical or industrial sources.

• Fallout from nuclear weapons testing.