Chemical Hazards and Reactions

Biological Effects

Ionizing radiation causes primarily nonspecific damage to cells. Radiation passing through living cells will directly ionize or excite atoms and molecules in the cell structure. The total effect on cell processes is a function of the dose of radiation. The cell processes will be affected in varying degrees:

Some damage to the cell may be repaired
If the extent of the damage to an organ is quite large, the organ may not be able to repair itself
Cells may also begin to exhibit uncontrolled growth.