ARTIFICIAL RADIATION

Radiation can be classified into two groups: ionising and non-ionising radiation. The former are those with enough energy to extract electrons from matter. The non-ionizing ones can excite the electrons, but not extract them.

Environmental exposure to non-ionizing radiation sources such as electromagnetic waves has increased dramatically due to technological, social and labor development.

On the other hand, in our current lifestyle exposure to sources of natural radiation such as those from the sun has decreased. It is proven that sun infrared rays help metabolism, blood flow and thermal regulation. The sun’s visible light stimulates the brain, the hypothalamus and the pituitary, which control the hormonal system and body functions. Ultraviolet light is necessary for the formation of vitamin D, which regulates the balance between the absorption of calcium and phosphorus.

Thus, the environment in which the human being has developed over the last thousands of years is laying open to an increase of artificial radiation overload. The environment in which we live today seems to go further and further away from nature.

Homeostasis balance regulates the adaptation of the human body to external risk factors. This self-regulatory system is different in each person and is weaker in the most vulnerable groups: babies, pregnant women, elderly people. External risk factors exposure, as well as other factors such as stress, may lead to the body’s lack of ability to adapt.

Magnetic and electromagnetic fields are recent incorporations in the official lists of potential carcinogens of the World Health Organization and the American Agency of Environmental Protection. These evaluations have alerted the society about how the radiations emitted by the transformers, the high voltage lines or the antennas of mobile telephony can affect the health of the people.

On the other hand, ionizing radiations are characterized by their high energy. They have the ability to break the chemical bonds of cell modules. The harmful effects on health are contrasted and lead to pathologies.

Radiation can be measured in order to determine the possible greater or lesser impact on people’s health.

Measurements of radiation from electric fields include low-frequency electric field strength and body tension, determination of dominant frequency and significant harmonic waves.

When measuring magnetic field radiation, the low-frequency flux density of the network current with determination of the dominant frequency and waves significant harmonics.

As for electromagnetic waves, the electromagnetic power density is measured, with determination of the dominant frequencies.

Radioactivity measurement provides the pulse rate, equivalent dose rate and radon concentration recording.