Most people associate the presence of radioactive materials with two very different applications. These are most commonly listed as the use of radioactive materials in the medical and dental field for imaging and x-rays, as well as in the nuclear reactors used for energy.
The Use of Radiation
However, there are many different uses of radiation and the need for radioactive materials. Aside from naturally occurring radiation, radioactive substances can be found and used in nuclear medicine and research, in security devices used in buildings and facilities, in the processing of specific types of food items, as well as in household products such as smoke detectors.
Industry uses radiation as well to perform quality control tests, to sterilize items for packaging, and to test the density of materials. All of these applications have very specific requirements for the containment of the radiation. For higher levels of radiation in industry, medicine, and energy, a lead vault is often required for storage.
Transportation of Radioactive Materials
In addition to the storage of radioactive materials, a lead vault can also be used for the safe transport of this material. The vault must be designed to meet the federal regulations and standards for transportation of this material, which includes the dimensions of the walls, floor, and ceiling of the vault based on the amount of radiative material present.
Protection of Sensitive Equipment
Another option for the use of a lead vault is to provide protection for sensitive types of electronic and control systems. By encasing these items within the vault, the correct level of protection for the equipment can be easily maintained in a controlled environment.
There are different options in vaults from those for temporary use to those that are required for ongoing use. When choosing the right type of vault, always consult all applicable federal regulations with regard to the protection required.
