Radiation Exposure at Work: What Are Your Rights?

Radiation Exposure at Work: What Are Your Rights?

Did you know that thousands of workers are exposed to radiation each year, often without even knowing it? Radiation exposure in the workplace is a serious concern, with potentially devastating health consequences. If you’re one of these workers, understanding your rights is crucial for protecting your health and future.

Understanding Radiation and Its Risks

Radiation is energy that travels in the form of waves or particles. While some forms of radiation are harmless, others, like ionizing radiation, can damage the DNA within our cells. This damage can lead to a range of health problems, including cancer. According to the CDC, high doses of radiation can be very serious, potentially causing cancer and even death.

Workplace radiation exposure can occur in various settings:

  • Medical facilities: Radiologic technicians, nurses, surgeons, and dental hygienists.
  • Industrial operations: Manufacturing and construction settings.
  • Nuclear facilities: Nuclear power plants and weapon production facilities.
  • Airline industry: Airplane pilots and flight crews.
  • Research laboratories: Where radioactive materials are handled.

Your Rights as a Worker

If your job involves potential radiation exposure, you have specific rights designed to protect you. These rights are primarily enforced by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and, in some cases, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

  1. Safe Working Environment: Employers are legally obligated to maintain a safe working environment. OSHA mandates a Radiation Protection Program where employees are exposed to radiation-producing equipment or materials.
  2. Monitoring and Exposure Limits: OSHA sets limits on the amount of radiation workers can be exposed to. For instance, whole-body dose limits typically do not exceed 20 mSv annually, averaged over five years, with no single year exceeding 50 mSv. Employers must conduct dose monitoring if a worker is likely to receive over 25% of the applicable occupational limit in any calendar quarter.
  3. Training and Information: You have the right to be fully informed about the risks associated with radiation exposure. OSHA requires employers to instruct personnel on safety problems, precautions, and devices to minimize exposure. Workers who are likely to receive a dose of more than 100 millirem in a year must receive adequate training to protect themselves against radiation.
  4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Employers must provide appropriate PPE, such as lead aprons, gloves, and glasses, to mitigate radiation exposure.
  5. Access to Exposure Records: You have the right to access records of your radiation exposure. Employers must maintain these records and advise employees of their individual exposure on at least an annual basis.
  6. Reporting Concerns: You have the right to report safety concerns without fear of retaliation. Radiation workers can ask the NRC to conduct an inspection if they believe their working environment has safety problems.

What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to unsafe levels of radiation at work, take these steps:

  1. Seek Medical Attention: Immediately seek medical attention and inform your doctor about the potential exposure. Early detection and treatment are crucial.
  2. Report the Incident: Report the incident to your employer and ensure an accident report is created, even if it’s not common practice in your workplace.
  3. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of your exposure, symptoms, medical treatments, and related expenses.
  4. Consult with a Lawyer: Contact a workers’ compensation attorney experienced in radiation exposure cases. These cases can be complex, and an attorney can help you understand your legal options and protect your rights.

Potential Legal Recourse

Depending on the circumstances, you may have several avenues for legal recourse:

  • Workers’ Compensation: If you’ve suffered illness or injury due to radiation exposure at work, you’re likely entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. These benefits can cover medical expenses and lost income.
  • Third-Party Lawsuit: If your radiation exposure was caused by a defective product or the negligence of a third party (someone other than your employer), you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit.
  • Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA): This federal law provides partial restitution to individuals who developed certain serious illnesses following exposure to radiation from the U.S. nuclear weapons program. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), enacted July 4, 2025, reauthorized the filing of claims under RECA until December 31, 2027, and expanded eligible populations.

Long-Term Health Effects and Compensation

The long-term health effects of radiation exposure can be severe and costly to treat. These effects may include:

  • Cancer
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Cataracts
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Genetic mutations

Compensation for radiation exposure claims can be substantial, especially if the exposure leads to serious diseases like cancer. Settlements may cover medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Staying Safe and Informed

Protecting yourself from radiation exposure at work requires vigilance and knowledge. Here are some tips:

  • Follow Safety Protocols: Adhere to all safety regulations and guidelines provided by your employer.
  • Use PPE: Always use the provided personal protective equipment correctly.
  • Limit Exposure Time: Minimize the time you spend in areas with high radiation levels.
  • Stay Informed: Educate yourself about the risks of radiation exposure and your rights as a worker.

The Importance of Legal Counsel

Radiation exposure cases are often complex and require specialized knowledge of regulations, medical issues, and legal precedents. An experienced attorney can:

  • Evaluate your case and determine the best course of action.
  • Help you gather evidence to support your claim.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies or other responsible parties.
  • Represent you in court if necessary.

Conclusion

Working with radiation carries inherent risks, but understanding your rights and taking proactive steps can significantly reduce those risks. If you believe you’ve been exposed to unsafe levels of radiation at work, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention and legal counsel. Protecting your health and future is paramount.