During this online course, participants will be introduced to the differences between ionizing and non ionizing radiation, the differences between exposure and contamination, biological effects of radiation on humans, and methods used to keep exposure on humans as low as reasonably achieveable. The course also includes a case study as well as interactive learning tools, so that learners can better distinguish between harmful and normal levels of radiation. All of the content is narrated by Dr. Eric J. Hall, Professor Emeritus of Radiation Oncology and Radiology, College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University.

*Upon successful completion of all the course content, you can obtain your certificate by clicking on the "My Account" link available at the top of this page*

 Course Objective:

The purpose of this course is to:

• Facilitate a basic understanding of radiation, its health effects on humans, control measures and safeguards among public health workers and emergency responders to prevent the occurrence of a radiological incident and enhance preparedness.

Key Messages:

• Radiation exposure can come from both man-made and naturally occurring sources.
• Radiation exposure is NOT the same as radioactive contamination.
•  The degree and severity of radiation exposure can be minimized by following the practicing of making every reasonable effort to maintain exposures as low as practical   (a.k.a. ALARA)

Capabilities:

Public Health Emergency Preparedness Capabilities:

• Community Preparedness,
• Information Sharing,
• Responder Safety and Health

Competency:

Preparedness and Emergency Response Learning Center (CDC) Competency:

• 1.4 Maintain situational awareness.

Learning Objectives:

At the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Define ionizing and non-ionizing radiation and specify different types of each
• Distinguish between the concepts of radiation exposure and contamination
• Describe biological effects of radiation on humans
• Identify methods utilized to minimize radiation exposures