It also produces radioactive waste. It's the job of Bill Smith and other health-physics technicians to dispose of it. Most of low-level waste is like dealing with fire. You have to have respect for it. It is minimally dangerous if you know how to take care of it.
Radiation destroys cells and can cause genetic mutations.
The most common result of long-term exposure is cancer, although certain mutations can be passed on through genes from generation to generation. On a recent tour of STP Unit 1, one of two reactor domes, Smith opened Door 281 and walked through what looked like a cluttered tool closet. At the far end was Door 289, painted purple and set into 3 feet of reinforced concrete. Low-level radioactive waste is stored there until it is sent to the South Carolina facility or, possibly, Sierra Blanca in a few years. Highly irradiated water filters, which resemble swimming pool filters, are stored behind the door.