Storage Conditions, Precautions, and Pharmaceutical Applications of Radioactive Substances

Storage Conditions

1) Shielding

• Use appropriate shielding materials to reduce radiation exposure.

• Lead containers or bricks are suitable for gamma emitters, while plexiglass or acrylic is effective for beta emitters.

• Alpha emitters can be stored in sealed containers as they can be blocked by container walls or even paper.

2) Ventilation

• Store radioactive materials in well-ventilated areas to prevent the buildup of radioactive gases like radon.

3) Segregation

• Store radioactive substances separately from other chemicals in designated areas.

• Different types of radioactive materials should be kept separate, clearly labeled, and organized.

4) Restricted Access

• Limit access to storage areas to authorized personnel who have received appropriate training in handling and safety procedures.

5) Monitoring

• Conduct regular radiation monitoring in storage areas to ensure radiation levels remain within acceptable limits.

Precautions

1) Training

• Ensure personnel handling radioactive materials receive proper training in radiation safety, handling procedures, and emergency response.

2) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• Wear appropriate PPE, such as lab coats, gloves, and safety glasses. Additional protective clothing, like lead aprons, may be necessary for handling gamma emitters.

3) Dosimetry

• Workers should wear dosimeters to monitor radiation exposure levels.

4) Contamination Control

• Cover work surfaces with absorbent, disposable materials to contain spills.

• Regular surveys should detect contamination, and proper decontamination procedures should be followed if needed.

5) Waste Disposal

• Segregate, collect, and dispose of radioactive waste according to local regulations and guidelines.

Pharmaceutical Applications

1) Diagnostic Imaging

• Radioisotopes like technetium-99m and fluorine-18 are used as tracers in imaging techniques such as SPECT and PET scans.

2) Radiation Therapy

• Radioisotopes like iodine-131 and yttrium-90 are used to treat cancer by delivering targeted radiation to malignant cells.

3) Radiopharmaceuticals

• Drugs containing radioactive substances used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, requiring strict manufacturing and regulatory control to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy.