Radioactive Lightning Arresters during Deployments
Countries where you may be deployed might use lightning arresters that contain radioactive sources. These lightning arresters are typically mounted on the ground or on top of buildings to protect structures from lightning strikes.
- They are intended to protect structures by guiding the destructive energy from a lightning strike safely into the ground. When properly installed, these arresters pose no risk to personnel.
Identifying Radioactive Material in Lightning Arresters
A radioactive lightning arrester should be marked with a radiation symbol (Figure 1), regardless of the country in which they are being used.
Over the years, however, these markings can become detached or illegible. When no markings are visible, the only means to identify a radioactive source and/or a potential exposure hazard is with appropriate radiation monitors. For example, the AN/VDR- 2 and AN/PDR 77 Radiacmeters, if properly used, will alert you of radiation from lightning arresters.
Proximity Safety: Concerns around Lightning Arresters
If the lightning arrester is properly installed and used in its intended configuration, it safe to be in the vicinity. The potential for exposure to low levels of ionizing radiation does exist near lightning arresters if they have fallen over or have been damaged in any way.
Health Risks of Downed or Damaged Lightning Arresters
Coming across a downed or damaged radioactive lightning arrester could potentially cause exposure to ionizing radiation. Potential exposure levels would most likely be low, and less than the radiation safety standards for exposures allowed to members of the U.S. general public.
Mitigating Radiation Risks from Lightning Arresters
Although you would only be potentially exposed to low levels of ionizing radiation, following basic radiation safety best practices can greatly minimize any potential exposure.
- Radiation safety practices:
- Limit the amount of time spent near the lightning arrester.
- Maximize your distance from a known or suspected downed or damaged arrester.
- Practice shielding by attempting to locate yourself where objects will be between you and the arrester. (For instance, if you can utilize lead or heavy steel containers or both to shield the source, do so.)
Encountering a Damaged or Fallen Lightning Arrester: Essential Safety Steps
- Do not panic.
- Do not touch or tamper with the lightning arrester.
- Move out of the area.
- Report the incident, including a list of any other personnel potentially exposed, to your chain-of-command, unit CBRN personnel, or both.
- Indicate the incident in a note on your Post-Deployment Health Questionnaire that you will fill out upon returning from deployment.
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