X-ray Burns in Industry
Four cases of industrial x-ray burns, seen by industrial medical officers, which occurred in research and analytical workers using x-ray diffraction and x-ray spectrometer machines, are described. In 2 of the cases an x-ray fluorescent spectrometer was partly dismantled with the beam on, and fairly severe burns to the right hand resulted in each case. These healed uneventfully, if slowly. In the 3rd case a small burn occurred on the right hand after a few seconds' exposure while adjusting a beam aperture on an x-ray diffraction apparatus, the beam again being on. This also healed uneventfully. In the 4th case, however, the outcome was more serious; an analytical worker adjusted the beanr of an x-ray diffraction apparatus, the machine being on. An unknown, but large, dose was received. Burns of the fingers appeared in a few weeks and failed to heal. Six months after exposure it was necessary to amputate the distal parts of the index and middle fingers. All the machines were standard pieces of apparatus and visible warning lights were on. Each incident was due to adjustment of the apparatus despite this warning. Although chemists and physicists may be theoretically conversant with the nature and properties of x- ray beams, they may lack a sufficient realization of the dangers of x-ray equipment. (H.H.D.)
- Research Organization:
- Originating Research Org. not identified
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- NSA Number:
- NSA-16-032771
- OSTI ID:
- 4770926
- Journal Information:
- BMJ, Journal Name: BMJ Journal Issue: 5290 Vol. 1; ISSN 0959-8138
- Publisher:
- BMJ Publishing Group
- Country of Publication:
- Country unknown/Code not available
- Language:
- English
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