The business of nuclear radiation detectors (also called radiation sensors) requires extensive education and training. For the purpose of radiation detection, companies offer various types of radiation detectors such as an electromagnetic radiation detector, heat radiation detector and gamma radiation detector. Therefore, if you want to buy a radiation detector, you must have basic information in order to make the right choice.

If you wish to enter the business of radiation detectors and radiation monitors, you will need to train your employees on the technology and operation of a radiation detection system. If you are a radiation detector manufacturer, you will need to keep your knowledge up-to-date in order to stay ahead of the competition.

To educate yourself and/or your workforce about radiation detectors, you can:

1. Browse various resources that provide basic information about radiation detectors
2. Enroll in educational courses at recognized institutions
3. Join associations for professionals in the field of radiation detection equipment

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Understand the basics of radiation detectors and the relevant terminology

If you have very little exposure to radiation detectors, you can learn the basics by browsing through different resources, such as websites of universities and international projects in astrophysics.

I recommend: You can learn the basics of a transition radiation detector at the website of the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer Experiment (AMS Experiment), a collaborative project of many institutions in Asia, Europe and North America. You can also read through basic information about radiation detectors at HyperPhysics, a part of GSU (Georgia State University) that provides information in physics.

Join educational courses that cover the knowledge of radiation detectors

Recognized institutions and some radiation detector manufacturers offer educational courses in radiation detection technology that include detailed education on radiation detectors. You can enroll in these courses to gain thorough technical knowledge about radiation detectors.

I recommend: CANBERRA, a reputable provider of nuclear measurement products and services, offers educational courses in radiation detectors technology, operation and maintenance. You can join a course in radiation detection and measurement at the School of Health Sciences at Purdue University in Indiana. If you have basic knowledge about radiation detectors, you can join continual education courses in radiation detection at PDHcenter.com, a recognized continuing education provider.

Join associations for radiation safety experts to enrich your knowledge about radiation detectors

Associations in the field of radiation safety provide a platform for communication and fruitful interaction among the experts and professionals in the industry. If you are in the business of radiation detectors, you can join these associations.

I recommend: You can join the Health Physics Society (HPS), a scientific organization for professionals that specialize in radiation safety. You can join the Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors, a non-profit organization for professionals that regulate and control the use of radioactive material and radiation sources. In addition, you can also join the Canadian Radiation Protection Association (CRPA), a professional organization that supports the development and implementation of radiation safety programs.

The first radiation detection equipment, often referred to as Geiger counters, was utilized during the 1960s and could only detect large levels of radiation. Named after their inventor, Geiger counters could only first detect alpha particles but, with endless improvements, can now measure ionizing and gamma radiation.

Those in the field of health care, nuclear physics and site survey rely on radiation detection equipment every day for their own safety. Exposure to radiation has been known to cause carcinogenic and neurological effects. Alpha, beta and gamma rays — all types of radiation emissions — can penetrate skin and other substances. An electromagnetic radiation detector comes in many forms, from handheld to wall-mounted, and offers peace-of-mind to anyone concerned about workplace safety.

Find the right electromagnetic radiation detector or monitor with the following resources:

1. Websites that offer personal nuclear radiation detectors

2. Workplace radiation detectors suppliers and manufacturers

3. Companies that offer monitoring services or devices

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get prices and information about personal radiation detectors online

If you're concerned about your own safety or even do contract work in areas that you know contain radioactive emissions, a portable radiation detector that fits in your pocket or attaches to your key chain is what you need. They are relatively inexpensive, depending on features, and are discreet and battery operated.

I recommend: Nukepills.com sells nuclear radiation detectors that attach to your key chain. Geosensory also offers an inexpensive personal radiation detector.

Buy bigger and more accurate radiation detectors for the workplace

For those working regularly in an environment that includes various forms of radiation, larger units can offer more specific measurements. Baggage scanners, civil defense engineers and x-ray technicians should inquire about radiation safety measures their employers have in place. In some industries, radiation monitoring is even mandated by state or federal regulatory standards.

I recommend: SE International, Inc., offers devices made by top-notch radiation detector manufacturer Abucus. Tested Equipment Distributors boasts the lowest prices on radiation detectors.

Find radiation monitors both small and large from companies that offer monitoring services

If you know you're working in an area where radiation is detectable, make sure the levels are low enough to work safely by keeping track with radiation monitors and monitoring services. You can opt for either a wall-mounted unit that detects radiation in a fixed area, or for a badge-type monitor that you or your staff can wear in several areas.

I recommend: International Medcom offers wall-mounted radiation sensors for a variety of industries. Sierra Radiation Dosimetry Service offers radiation monitoring in the form of a badge.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you work with industrial X-ray machines, or in an industry that specializes in cleaning up contamination, look for lead-free radiation suits, in addition to a radiation detection system, for the ultimate health protection.

Radiation detectors are an important part of an inclusive safety kit for any business. For businesses that don't deal with radiation on a daily basis, these detectors are still a good investment in case any radiation incidents occur in the area.

The price you pay for these units is largely dependent on the main purpose of the radiation detector. If you need one for use only in an emergency situation, a basic model may work; however, for frequent use, a more sophisticated unit may be warranted. Consider the following suggestions to help you prepare your budget to absorb radiation detectors pricing and costs:

1. Invest in a personal radiation detector.

2. Upgrade to a more powerful portable radiation detector.

3. Stick with reliable gamma radiation detectors.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase personal radiation detectors

Personal radiation detectors are ideal for emergency preparedness kits, educational uses or geological uses. The price you pay for these units depends on the specifications you need. Combination units that have both a dosimeter and detector are more expensive than a basic personal unit.

I recommend: PK Safety Supply sells a state of the art personal radiation detector that combines a dosimeter with a detector all in one device. Prices range from $1,200 to $2,000. Promolife offers a basic portable radiation detector for under $300. This no frills unit is ideal for an emergency preparedness kit or educational applications.

Invest in handheld radiation sensors

Handheld radiation sensors are ideal for many applications. These units can be used to check the radiation levels on a specific surface or they can measure the levels in the air. The prices for these products vary greatly in price depending on the applications you need. Generally, the wider the usage, the more expensive the unit.

I recommend: Lab Safety Supply sells radiation detection equipment priced from around $200 to $1,000 for the base unit. It also sells supplies, such as wipe plates starting at around $25. Grainger offers industrial radiation monitors. Prices start at around $200 for an electromagnetic radiation detector.

Consider a gamma radiation detector

A gamma radiation detector is one of the oldest ways to detect radiation. These units were commonly used during the Cold War.

I recommend: The Sportsman's Guide sells working vintage gamma radiation detectors. These are priced under $100 each.