Non-Ionizing Radiation

Abstract

Radiation-protection regulations concern ionizing radiation like α, β, γ radiation and neutrons. Separate regulations concern the handling of X rays and X-ray-generating devices. γ radiation and X rays are electromagnetic waves: they differ from visible light or microwave radiation only by their energy or, equivalently, by their frequency or wavelength. It is only natural to ask to what extent electromagnetic radiation of other frequencies might be dangerous for humans.

“High frequency radiation is sometimes thought to be the cause of cancer, while low frequency radiation is generally assumed to be harmless.”

Susan Dean and Barbara Illowsky