All radioactive material must be labeled and stored in approved areas. Return radioactive material and radiation sources to proper storage when not in use. All primary containers in which radioactive materials are used or stored shall be labeled in accordance with Chapter 6 of this manual. Prenatal Radiation Exposure General Information Employers of radiation workers shall provide instruction on risks from exposure to radiation. Of special interest is the potential exposure of women workers of child bearing age and risks to the unborn child.
Children are more sensitive to radiation than adults.
The unborn are generally more sensitive than children, especially during the first trimester. Therefore, the acceptable dose limits are lower than for adults. During initial training of occupational radiation workers, the university's policy is presented and the risks are reviewed. It is very important for the worker to disclose her condition confidentially, whether fact or suspicion, at the earliest possible time to ensure that proper action may be taken. When the pregnancy has been disclosed by the radiation worker to the Radiation Safety Officer or supervisor, instruction is provided regarding rights and responsibilities and the option to declare pregnancy or not.